What Happened This Year 2016

People Who Died in 2016

Jayalalithaa

Indian actress and Tamil Nadu politician
Born
February 24th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 68 years old

An Indian actress and politician, served as the 16th Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. Entered the film industry in the 1960s, becoming a leading actress in Tamil cinema, with notable performances in films like "Vennira Aadai" and "Deiva Magan". Transitioned to politics in the 1980s, joining the AIADMK party founded by M.G. Ramachandran. Rose to prominence as a political leader, becoming Chief Minister multiple times during her career. Focused on welfare programs and initiatives for women and children during her tenure.

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Dwight Jones

Basketball player for the Houston Rockets
Born
February 27th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 64 years old

A professional basketball player played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) primarily for the Houston Rockets. Entered the league after being selected in the 1973 NBA Draft. Played as a forward and made a significant contribution to the Rockets' performance during his tenure. Jones was part of a team known for its competitive spirit in the NBA during the 1970s.

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Vladimir Zeldin

Russian actor and stage performer
Born
February 10th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 101 years old

Born in 1915, an influential actor in Russian theater and film took part in a career spanning over seven decades. The stage repertoire included numerous performances at the Moscow City Council Theater and the Satire Theatre in Moscow. This actor gained recognition for roles in classic Russian productions and also participated in the film industry, with significant contributions to film adaptations of literary works. A lifelong dedication to the craft resulted in national acclaim and a reputation as a master of performance.

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Steven Hill

American actor known for Law & Order
Born
February 24th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 94 years old

An American actor, notable for a career spanning several decades in film and television. Made an early television appearance in 'Studio One' before gaining recognition for performances in various dramatic roles. Most prominently portrayed District Attorney Adam Schiff in the long-running television series 'Law & Order,' appearing in the show from its inception in 1990 until 2000. Hill's work extended into film, with notable roles in productions such as 'The Greatest Story Ever Told' and 'The Firm.' A dedicated performer, he became respected for his ability to bring depth and authenticity to characters across various genres.

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Radu Câmpeanu

Romanian politician and political leader
Born
February 28th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 94 years old

Born in Romania, served as a prominent political figure during the transition from communism to democracy. Co-founded the National Liberal Party (PNL) and played a significant role in its revival after the fall of the communist regime. Elected as the first president of the PNL during this transitional period, emphasized democratic values and market reforms. Engaged in political activities leading to Romania's integration into European structures and promoted civil society initiatives.

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Oscar Brand

Singer-songwriter and author
Born
February 7th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 96 years old

This individual was a Canadian-American singer-songwriter and author famous for folk music. His career spanned several decades, beginning in the 1940s. Emphasizing traditional American music, this person promoted folk songs through recordings, radio broadcasts, and public performances. An extensive discography includes over 40 albums and numerous television appearances, significantly on shows like 'Oscar Brand's Folk Song Festival'. He authored multiple books that contributed to folk culture discussions and education.

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Petr Hájek

Czech mathematician and academic
Born
February 6th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 76 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematical logic and has been a prominent figure in the field of mathematics education. Worked extensively on foundational studies in logic, particularly in relation to the theories of truth and formal systems. Served as a professor and led numerous academic initiatives to enhance mathematics teaching in higher education institutions. Engaged in various research projects and published several influential papers that explored critical aspects of logic and set theory.

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Kimbo Slice

Mixed martial artist and internet fighter
Born
February 8th, 1974 51 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 42 years old

Gained attention through internet street fighting videos, participated in various mixed martial arts (MMA) promotions. Achieved notable victories in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and EliteXC. Transitioned from street fighting to professional MMA and later competed in professional boxing. Appeared in the reality television series 'The Ultimate Fighter.' His fighting style blended street-fighting techniques with traditional martial arts.

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Wolfgang Suschitzky

Cinematographer for 'The 39 Steps'
Born
August 29th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 104 years old

Austrian-English cinematographer and photographer contributed to the film industry with a notable career spanning several decades. Worked primarily in Britain, recognized for cinematography on projects including 'The 39 Steps' and 'The Man Who Knew Too Much'. Early life began in Vienna, later emigrated to England before World War II. During the war, served as a cameraman and photographer for the British Ministry of Information. Post-war career included collaborations with prominent directors, showcasing a distinct visual style that enhanced narrative storytelling in cinema. Also engaged in photography, producing striking portraits and landscapes throughout his career.

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