What Happened This Year 2015
People Who Died in 2015
Süleyman Demirel
Born in 1924, an engineer by training, served multiple terms as Prime Minister and was elected the 9th President of Turkey in 1993, holding office until 2000. During political career, advocated for economic development and modernization. Contributed to significant infrastructure projects and participated in the establishment of Turkey's political landscape. Played a key role in the transition of Turkey to a multi-party democracy in the 1950s. After presidency, remained active in political affairs until late in life, influencing various party dynamics.
Continue ReadingClementa C. Pinckney
Served as a minister and state senator in South Carolina, focusing on social issues and community development. Played a pivotal role in the history of the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church and was a significant voice in the political landscape. Advocated for education, healthcare, and civil rights. Tragically, lost life during the Charleston church shooting in 2015, which drew national attention to gun violence and racial tensions in America.
Continue ReadingJohn David Crow
A professional football player and coach, played primarily as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Played for the Chicago Cardinals from 1958 to 1961 and the San Francisco 49ers from 1962 to 1963. Achieved recognition as the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1960. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, serving in various capacities at the college level.
Continue ReadingRoberto M. Levingston
Served as the 36th President of Argentina from 1970 to 1971. Directed a military government during a turbulent period in Argentine history. Implemented various economic policies aimed at addressing inflation and instability. Resigned from the presidency amid political unrest and the return to democratic governance.
Continue ReadingAllen Weinstein
Held a prominent role in American history scholarship and education. Authored multiple influential works focusing on the analysis of key historical events and figures. Served as a professor at various institutions, significantly contributing to the academic field. Co-founded the National Archives and Records Administration, where efforts were made to improve public access to historical documents and records.
Continue ReadingRalph J. Roberts
Co-founded Comcast in 1963, leading the company to become one of the largest telecommunications and media conglomerates in the world. Oversaw significant acquisitions and expansions, including the purchase of NBCUniversal in 2011, which greatly diversified Comcast’s portfolio. Served as CEO and later as chairman, fostering innovations in cable television and internet services. Continued to influence the company until retirement, establishing a legacy in the telecommunications industry.
Continue ReadingPhil Austin
A comedian, actor, and screenwriter, this individual was part of the groundbreaking comedy group The Firesign Theatre. The group gained prominence in the late 1960s and 1970s through their innovative radio plays and albums that combined absurdist humor with social commentary. The work often parodied popular culture and media, contributing significantly to American comedy. The person also made appearances in various television shows and films throughout their career, showcasing talents beyond the stage. Contributions to spoken word albums and live performances helped shape the landscape of surreal comedy in the United States.
Continue ReadingDanny Villanueva
Played as a punter in American football for the Los Angeles Rams and the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. Later transitioned to a broadcasting career, contributing to various media outlets. Co-founded Univision, a prominent Spanish-language television network in the United States, which significantly shaped Hispanic media and culture.
Continue ReadingJames Salter
A prominent American writer, this individual made significant contributions to literature through novels and short stories. Works include 'Light Years' and 'A Sport and a Pastime,' which explore themes of love and memory with rich prose. An accomplished essayist, he also published collections such as 'Several Short Sentences About Writing.' This individual served as a fighter pilot during the Korean War, an experience that informed some of the narrative elements in later writings.
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