What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Erica Garner

Civil rights activist against police violence
Born
May 29th, 1990 34 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2017 7 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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John G. Avildsen

Film Director of Rocky and The Karate Kid
Born
December 21st, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 82 years old

Achieved prominence as a film director, producer, and cinematographer. Directed the iconic sports drama 'Rocky', which won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1977. Also directed 'The Karate Kid', a popular coming-of-age martial arts film that gained a significant following in the 1980s. Established a reputation for storytelling that combined underdog triumphs with emotional depth.

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Ueli Steck

Swiss mountaineer and climber known for speed
Born
October 4th, 1976 48 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 41 years old

This individual specialized in high-altitude mountaineering and achieved multiple speed records on iconic peaks. Renowned for solo ascents, this climber completed notable climbs on the North Face of the Eiger, as well as on Annapurna and other challenging summits. His extreme climbing style emphasized minimalism and speed, setting him apart in the mountaineering community. This figure also contributed to climbing literature and served as an inspiration to many aspiring climbers through personal stories and experiences shared in media and lectures.

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Peter Richardson

English cricketer and Worcestershire captain
Born
July 4th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent cricketer, this individual played first-class cricket for Worcestershire from 1950 to 1967. As a right-handed batsman, contributed significantly to the team's successes during the County Championship. Served as team captain and led Worcestershire to several key victories, solidifying the club's reputation in English cricket. Also represented England in international matches, showcasing talent on a global scale. His career encompassed a range of matches and competitions, highlighting the skills and dedication to the sport.

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Fritz Hellwig

German politician and member of Bundestag
Born
August 3rd, 1912 112 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 105 years old

A politician engaged in German politics, contributing significantly to the post-war political landscape. Served as a member of the Bundestag from 1949 to 1972, representing the Free Democratic Party. Played a pivotal role in various legislative initiatives during the early years of the Federal Republic of Germany, focusing on civil rights and economic reforms. Actively participated in shaping policy and governance in a rapidly changing Europe following World War II.

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Saloua Raouda Choucair

Lebanese painter and sculptor, contemporary art
Born
June 24th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 101 years old

Born in 1916, a prominent figure in modern art, creating paintings and sculptures that reflect a blend of abstraction and cultural themes. Established a career that spanned several decades, contributing to the development of contemporary art in Lebanon and beyond. Engaged actively in art exhibitions, showcasing works that often incorporated elements of Islamic art and geometry. Played a crucial role in introducing modernist ideas in the region, influencing generations of artists. Died in 2020, leaving a legacy as a pioneer in contemporary art in the Arab world.

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Lembit Ulfsak

Estonian actor and director
Born
July 4th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 70 years old

An Estonian actor and director, recognized for significant contributions to the national cinema and theater. Started a career in the 1970s, rising to prominence through performances in film and stage. Participated in numerous Estonian productions, becoming a familiar face in the industry. Directed various theater plays and films, establishing a reputation for excellence in both acting and directing. Contributed to the artistic landscape in Estonia and left a lasting legacy in the performing arts.

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Ahmed Kathrada

South African politician and anti-apartheid activist
Born
August 21st, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1929, a political prisoner and prominent figure in the anti-apartheid movement. Worked alongside notable leaders in the struggle against racial segregation in South Africa. Served as a close associate of Nelson Mandela and became a member of the African National Congress (ANC). Spent 26 years in prison, mainly on Robben Island, for his activism. After his release in 1990, continued to work in politics and advocated for social justice until retirement.

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Alexei Alexeyevich Abrikosov

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics 2003
Born
June 25th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 89 years old

Contributions to the field of condensed matter physics included groundbreaking work on superconductivity and quantum phenomena. The theoretical framework for the Abrikosov vortex, which describes magnetic flux lines in superconductors, has been integral to advancements in the understanding of materials in superconducting states. Held an academic position at Argonne National Laboratory and was involved in various teaching roles throughout a long career. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2003, sharing the honor for contributions that elucidated the nature and behavior of superconductors and their applications in technology.

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