What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Erica Garner

Civil rights activist against police violence
Born
May 29th, 1990 36 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2017 8 years ago — 27 years old

Born in 1990, activism focused on civil rights following the death of Eric Garner, father. Advocated for justice and accountability in cases of police violence. Organized demonstrations and engaged in public speaking to raise awareness about systemic racism and police brutality. Co-founded organizations aimed at addressing police violence and providing support to affected families. Continued activism until untimely death in 2017 due to health complications.

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Pete Hamilton

Race car driver, Daytona 500 winner
Born
July 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 75 years old

A race car driver from the United States, accomplished on the NASCAR circuit. Achieved significant success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Won the prestigious Daytona 500 in 1970, solidifying a place in racing history. Competed for various teams throughout a career that spanned more than a decade, showing proficiency on both dirt and asphalt tracks.

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Joseph Nicolosi

Clinical psychologist specializing in therapy
Born
January 21st, 1947 79 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 70 years old

A clinical psychologist, contributed to the field of psychology through the development of reparative therapy, aimed at changing sexual orientation. Founded the Thomas Aquinas Psychological Clinic in California, which became a training center for therapists practicing this approach. Authored several books, including 'Healing Homosexuality' and 'A Parent's Guide to Preventing Homosexuality'. Engaged in public discourse on the subject of sexual orientation and therapy, frequently appearing in media to discuss controversial topics related to homosexuality and psychotherapy.

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Habib Thiam

Senegalese politician and prime minister
Born
January 21st, 1933 93 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Senegal from 1981 to 1983. Played a key role in the government under President Abdou Diouf. Focused on economic reforms and development policies aimed at modernizing the agricultural sector. Engaged in international diplomacy to strengthen Senegal's position in West Africa.

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Carlos Humberto Romero

President of El Salvador
Born
February 29th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the President of El Salvador from 1972 to 1977. His administration is marked by a focus on modernization and economic development amid increasing social unrest. Governed during a time of significant political turmoil, characterized by human rights violations and repression of opposition. Held power through a military-backed regime and faced criticism for the handling of dissent. His presidency ended with a coup led by leftist rebels, leading to further conflict in the country.

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Gauri Lankesh

Indian journalist and activist
Born
January 29th, 1962 64 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 55 years old

A journalist and activist prominent in India. Focused on social justice issues, including caste discrimination and women's rights. Edited a Kannada-language weekly newspaper that criticized extremist ideologies. Advocated for freedom of the press and was known for opposing the rise of Hindu nationalism. Assassinated in 2017, sparking widespread protests and calls for justice.

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Shelley Berman

American comedian and actor
Born
February 3rd, 1925 101 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent figure in the world of comedy and acting. Gained widespread recognition in the 1960s through stand-up performances and appearances on television. Released successful comedy albums, including 'Shelley Berman's America', which earned a Grammy Award. Appeared in television series such as 'Below The Belt' and had a notable role as Larry's father in 'Curb Your Enthusiasm'. His contributions to comedy during a transformative era solidified his position in the entertainment industry.

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Tony Booth

English actor and television star
Born
October 9th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 86 years old

An English actor, this individual gained prominence in the television industry during the late 20th century. Best recognized for portraying the character of Mike in the popular sitcom 'Till Death Us Do Part', the role contributed significantly to the show's success and cultural commentary. Engaged in acting from a young age, work included various stage performances and roles in film and television series. Also featured in productions like 'The Sweeney' and made guest appearances in other notable shows, solidifying a reputation within the industry.

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Pierre Henry

French composer of electroacoustic music
Born
December 9th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 90 years old

A composer recognized for pioneering the genre of electroacoustic music. In the 1940s, collaborated with Pierre Schaeffer to further develop musique concrète, blending recorded sounds with traditional musical techniques. Through experimentation with tape manipulation and sound collages, contributed to the evolution of contemporary music. Worked with various media, including theater and dance, creating soundtracks that integrated innovative soundscapes. Composed notable works such as "Symphonie pour un homme seul" and "La Noire à Soixante".

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