What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Eric Thompson

Race car driver and businessman
Born
November 4th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2015 9 years ago — 95 years old

A race car driver and businessman participated in motorsport during the mid-20th century. Competed in various racing events and was associated with notable British motor racing teams. Later transitioned into business, focusing on automotive enterprises. Contributed to both motorsport and the automotive industry, showcasing skills in both arenas.

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Ieng Thirith

Cambodian academic and politician
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2015 9 years ago — 83 years old

An academic and politician associated with the Khmer Rouge regime, played a significant role in the Cambodian government during the 1970s. Served as Minister of Social Affairs and worked on social policies impacting the Cambodian population. Involved in the higher education system in Cambodia post-political upheaval, contributing to the academic development of the country. Faced legal proceedings in relation to crimes against humanity during the Khmer Rouge era.

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Guy Ligier

Race car driver and team owner
Born
July 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2015 9 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent figure in the world of motorsport, achieved success as a race car driver and founder of the Ligier team. Competed in Formula One during the 1960s and 1970s, driving for teams such as Cooper and Brabham. Transitioned to team ownership by establishing Ligier in 1976. The team went on to achieve significant success in Formula One, fielding competitive cars throughout the 1980s. Ligier also made contributions to sports car racing and other motorsport endeavors, solidifying a legacy in the automotive racing community.

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Augusta Chiwy

Nurse during World War II
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2015 9 years ago — 94 years old

A Congolese-Belgian nurse contributed significantly during World War II, providing medical assistance during the Battle of Bastogne. Worked alongside medical units to treat wounded soldiers despite the dangers of war. Spent much of the war in Belgium and faced challenging conditions to ensure the care of those injured. Resided in Belgium for most of her life after the war, advocating for recognition of contributions made by nurses and medical personnel during wartime.

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Justin Wilson

Chef and author of Cajun cuisine
Born
April 24th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2015 9 years ago — 101 years old

Born in 1914, a prominent figure in American culinary culture, particularly in Cajun cuisine. Originated from Louisiana and became a key advocate for the state's rich culinary heritage through cooking demonstrations, cookbooks, and public television shows. Influenced many in the realm of Southern cooking with a humorous and engaging storytelling style. Authored several cookbooks, contributing to the popularization of Cajun cooking across the United States. Developed a distinguished persona that combined humor with culinary expertise, attracting a wide audience.

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Charlie Coffey

American football player and coach
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2015 9 years ago — 81 years old

Played as a center in American football and contributed to the sport as a coach. Coffey's career included playing for teams such as the Washington Redskins and the Philadelphia Eagles. Transitioned into coaching after playing, guiding various high school teams. Contributed to the development of many players during coaching tenure.

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Francis Sejersted

Historian specializing in Norwegian history
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2015 9 years ago — 79 years old

An academic focused on the study of Norwegian political history, particularly emphasized the impact of key events and figures on the formation of modern Norway. Contributed significant insights into the development of Norwegian identity and society through publications and lectures. Held a prominent position at the University of Oslo, influencing future historians and scholars in the field. Engaged in various research projects that explored Norway's historical narrative in a broader European context.

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José María Benegas

Spanish lawyer and politician
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2015 9 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent figure in Spanish politics, played a significant role in the Basque Country's political landscape. Held various positions within the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) and served as a member of the Spanish Parliament. Advocated for social issues and participated actively in legislative processes. Contributed to the development of policies affecting the region and the nation.

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Amelia Boynton Robinson

American civil rights activist and leader
Born
August 18th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2015 9 years ago — 104 years old

Born in 1911, this activist played a pivotal role in the struggle for civil rights in the United States. Actively participated in the Selma to Montgomery marches and was one of the first African American women to run for Congress from Alabama. Contributed to the establishment of the Selma Voting Rights Movement and was a key figure in advocating for voting rights for African Americans. Her work garnered national attention, leading to greater awareness of civil rights issues in the 1960s.

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