What Happened This Year 2015
People Who Died in 2015
Neal Walk
A professional basketball player played as a center in the National Basketball Association (NBA) primarily for the Phoenix Suns. Drafted second overall in the 1969 NBA Draft, excelled with an average of 16.4 points and 11.4 rebounds per game throughout his career. Played for multiple teams, including the New Orleans Jazz and the Detroit Pistons. Retired after the 1976 season, leaving a significant legacy in college basketball as a standout player at the University of Florida.
Continue ReadingJoker Arroyo
Served as a prominent politician in the Philippines, Arroyo held various key positions throughout a lengthy career. Notably served as a senator and was instrumental in numerous legislative initiatives. Contributed to efforts in human rights advocacy and was a vocal opponent of extrajudicial killings. Played a crucial role in the formation of significant laws during his tenure, focusing on social justice and transparency in government, and was deeply involved in the legal profession prior to entering politics.
Continue ReadingChantal Akerman
A prominent figure in cinema, contributed significantly to the medium with a focus on women's experiences and narrative structure. Directed the acclaimed film 'Jeanne Dielman, 23 quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles', which is recognized as a landmark in feminist film. Explored themes of time, domesticity, and identity in various works. Integrated avant-garde techniques into filmmaking, influencing future generations of filmmakers.
Continue ReadingGrace Lee Boggs
An influential philosopher, author, and activist, dedicated much of her life to social justice and community activism. Engaged in the civil rights movement, worked alongside notable figures and grassroots organizations. Authored several books, including 'The Next American Revolution: Sustainable Activism for the Twenty-First Century', framing a vision for social change. Advocated for the rights of marginalized communities in Detroit and emphasized the importance of grassroots movements in creating social transformation.
Continue ReadingHenning Mankell
An influential Swedish author and playwright, gained recognition for crime fiction. Mankell created the character Kurt Wallander, a detective in the Swedish police force. The Wallander series became internationally acclaimed, resulting in adaptations for television and film. Mankell's works often explored social issues, the human psyche, and morality. In addition to crime novels, he wrote plays and children's books, contributing to Swedish literature.
Continue ReadingJuan Vicente Ugarte del Pino
A prominent historian and jurist, contributed significantly to the understanding of Peruvian history and law. Served as the president of the Historical Society of Peru and held various academic positions at several universities. Also participated in legal reform initiatives, advocating for improvements in the judicial system. Worked on documentation of historical events in Peru, emphasizing the importance of accurate historical records for future generations.
Continue ReadingÁrpád Göncz
Born in 1922, an accomplished author and playwright, served as the first President of Hungary from 1990 to 2000. Played a significant role in the country's transition from socialism to democracy following the fall of communism. His presidency was marked by efforts to strengthen parliamentary democracy and promote civil rights. Additionally, he was a member of the Hungarian Parliament and influenced various cultural initiatives throughout his life.
Continue ReadingVladimir Shlapentokh
Born in Ukraine, this individual contributed to the fields of sociology, history, and political science. Emigrating to the United States, their academic work focused on Soviet society and post-Soviet transformations. Significant positions included teaching at notable universities. Published works critically examined political behaviors and societal changes in Eastern Europe. The research provided insights into the political culture and dynamics of the region during and after the Soviet era.
Continue ReadingHossein Hamadani
A senior commander in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, played a significant role in the Syrian Civil War. Oversaw operations aimed at supporting the Syrian government and combatting terrorist groups. Contributed to military strategies and was involved in training militias aligned with Iranian interests in the region. Commanded forces in various operations that showcased the military capabilities of Iran in foreign conflicts.
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