What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Cuthbert Sebastian

Politician and Governor-General of St. Kitts
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
March 25th, 2017 7 years ago — 96 years old

Served as the Governor-General of St. Kitts and Nevis from 1996 to 2013. Contributed to the political landscape of the country during a period of significant change. Engaged in various civic activities and supported local initiatives aimed at national development. Worked closely with successive governments to navigate issues pertaining to governance and public welfare.

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Alexei Abrikosov

Physicist, 2003 Nobel laureate in Physics
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2017 7 years ago — 89 years old

A physicist contributed significantly to the theory of superconductivity. Developed the Ginzburg-Landau theory in collaboration with Vitaly Ginzburg, which provided a theoretical framework for understanding superconductors. His work led to the discovery of the Abrikosov vortex lattice, which describes the behavior of magnetic fields in type-II superconductors. Awards include the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2003 for contributions to the development of the theory of superconductivity. Held a prestigious position at Argonne National Laboratory and published extensively in the field of condensed matter physics.

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James Rosenquist

American Pop Artist and Muralist
Born
November 29th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2017 7 years ago — 83 years old

An American artist, contributed significantly to the Pop Art movement through large-scale paintings and murals. Started career as a billboard painter, which influenced artistic style and technique. Developed unique approach combining commercial imagery and fine art. Notable works include 'F-111' and 'The Swimmer in the Elysian Fields'. Played a key role in the transition of popular culture mediums to fine art, reflecting on consumerism and mass media.

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Gilbert Baker

LGBT rights activist and artist
Born
June 2nd, 1951 73 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2017 7 years ago — 65 years old

An American artist and activist created the rainbow flag in 1978, a symbol of the LGBTQ+ movement. The original flag featured eight colors, each representing different aspects of the community. Baker utilized his sewing skills to produce the flags and played a significant role in raising awareness for LGBTQ+ rights. Over the years, the rainbow flag evolved to four colors and became a global symbol of pride and acceptance. In addition to the flag, he engaged in various community projects and activism to support LGBTQ+ rights throughout his life.

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Lonnie Brooks

Blues singer and guitarist, 'Bayou Blues'
Born
December 18th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2017 7 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent figure in the blues genre, this artist gained acclaim for a unique blend of Chicago blues and swamp blues. Originating from Louisiana, significant influence stemmed from the region's rich musical traditions. The artist began his career in the 1950s, moving to Chicago to pursue opportunities in the vibrant blues scene. Released multiple albums, with notable works including 'Bayou Blues' and 'Live at the Legends'. The performer contributed to the revitalization of interest in blues music during the 1980s and 1990s, through intricate guitar work and distinct vocal style. Received various accolades, including a W.C. Handy Award for Best Blues Album.

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Yevgeny Yevtushenko

Soviet and Russian Poet, 'Babi Yar'
Born
July 18th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2017 7 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent Soviet and Russian poet and writer, Yevtushenko gained recognition for powerful poetry that often criticized the government and addressed social issues. His poem 'Babi Yar' memorialized the Jewish victims of a massacre during World War II and protested against anti-Semitism. The poet's work included contributions to literature and film, leading to a significant cultural legacy. Yevtushenko was also a director of the Poetry Theater in Moscow, promoting poetic expression through performance. He published numerous collections and engaged with political commentary throughout his career, becoming a voice for his generation.

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Alma Delia Fuentes

Mexican actress known for telenovelas
Born
January 22nd, 1937 88 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2017 7 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1937, a prominent figure in Mexican cinema and television, particularly in the realm of telenovelas. Starred in the acclaimed series 'Cuna de Lobos,' which garnered significant viewership and became a classic in the genre. Also featured in multiple films during a lengthy career. Her contributions to the entertainment industry established her as a well-respected actress in Mexico.

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Paul O'Neill

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
February 25th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2017 7 years ago — 54 years old

Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball, primarily with the New York Yankees. Contributed to the team's success in the late 1990s, winning four World Series titles. After retirement, transitioned to sports broadcasting, providing analysis and commentary for Yankee games.

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Makoto Ōoka

Japanese poet and literary critic
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2017 7 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in Japanese literature, contributed significantly to poetry and literary criticism. Ōoka published numerous collections of poetry that explored themes of nature, human emotion, and societal change. Worked as a literary critic, offering insightful analysis of contemporary literature and poetry. Served as a professor at several universities, influencing a generation of writers and scholars. His literary works are part of academic discussions on Japanese poetry.

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