What Happened This Year 2015

People Who Died in 2015

Omar Karami

Lebanese politician, 58th Prime Minister
Born
September 7th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent Lebanese lawyer and politician, served as the 58th Prime Minister of Lebanon. Initially held the office from 2004 to 2005, and returned to power in 2011. Actively participated in Lebanese politics during a tumultuous period marked by political assassinations and civil unrest. Efforts were focused on rebuilding the political landscape of Lebanon, addressing issues of governance and national unity. Resigned in 2015 amidst challenges faced by the government and societal demands for reform. Contributed to discussions around Lebanon’s political framework and the role of leadership in navigating the country’s complex dynamics.

Continue Reading

Mario Cuomo

American politician and governor
Born
June 15th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the 52nd Governor of New York from 1983 to 1994. Before taking office, practiced law and held the position of Secretary of State of New York. Renowned for eloquent speeches, particularly at the Democratic National Convention in 1984. Played a crucial role in advancing progressive policies in New York during tenure as governor. Contributed significantly to the state budget reform and education policy.

Continue Reading

Boris Morukov

Russian physician and astronaut
Born
October 1st, 1950 74 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 64 years old

Graduated from the First Moscow Medical Institute and specialized in aviation and space medicine. Participated in the Salyut 7 space station mission as a flight engineer in 1980. Conducted various medical experiments in microgravity to study the effects of long-term space travel on human physiology. Contributed to advancements in space medicine and astronaut training programs.

Continue Reading

Donna Douglas

Actress from The Beverly Hillbillies
Born
September 26th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 82 years old

An American actress gained prominence through a prominent television role in the series 'The Beverly Hillbillies,' where portrayed the character Elly May Clampett. The series aired from 1962 to 1971 and centered around a family of rural hillybillys who became wealthy after discovering oil. The role showcased her comedic talents and appealed to a wide audience, establishing her as a leading actress in the show. After the series concluded, continued to appear in television and film, including guest roles on shows such as 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Ed Sullivan Show.' Douglas also worked as a motivational speaker and authored several books, including one about her experiences in Hollywood. Throughout her career, maintained a presence in entertainment until her passing.

Continue Reading

Ulrich Beck

German sociologist and risk society theorist
Born
May 15th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent sociologist, contributed significantly to social theory with the concept of 'risk society.' Focused on the implications of modernity and globalization, examining how societal risks shape human behavior and institutional responses. Authored influential works, including 'Risk Society: Towards a New Modernity' and 'The Reinvention of Politics.' Explored themes of individualization, ecological crisis, and the transformation of social structures. Established a framework for understanding the relationship between risks and societal changes.

Continue Reading

William Lloyd Standish

United States District Judge
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old

Appointed as a United States District Judge, served on the bench for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Provided significant rulings on various federal cases during tenure. Held a distinguished career in the judiciary, contributing to the legal system and its development in the region. Worked prior as a law clerk and engaged in private legal practice before judicial appointment.

Continue Reading

Tihomir Novakov

Physicist and academic specialized in environmental science
Born
March 16th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old

A physicist and academic with a significant focus on environmental physics and atmospheric sciences. Contributed to research on the effects of air pollution and its influence on climate change. Served as a professor and researcher at various institutions, emphasizing the importance of understanding the interactions between human activity and environmental changes. Actively engaged in international collaborations to enhance the understanding of atmospheric processes. Authored numerous scientific papers advancing knowledge in the field.

Continue Reading

Martin Anderson

American economist and academic
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to economic policy and education in the United States. Served as a principal adviser to President Ronald Reagan and played a key role in the 1980 Republican presidential campaign. Authored several influential books on public policy, economics, and education reform. Held academic positions at various universities and institutions, including the Hoover Institution. Focused on economic consulting and policy formulation throughout an extensive career.

Continue Reading

Pino Daniele

Italian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1955 70 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent figure in Italian music, amalgamated traditional Neapolitan sounds with jazz, blues, and rock influences. Gained widespread popularity with albums such as 'Nero a Metà' and 'Mediterraneo'. His unique guitar-playing style and emotive voice resonated with audiences. Worked with numerous artists and contributed to various collaborative projects throughout a prolific career. The music encompassed themes of love, life, and social issues, creating a lasting legacy.

Continue Reading