What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Roger Walkowiak

French Cyclist, 1956 Tour de France Winner
Born
March 2nd, 1927 99 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 90 years old

Competed as a professional cyclist during the mid-20th century. Achieved prominence in the cycling world by winning the 1956 Tour de France. Contributed to the sport through participation in various races post-Tour victory and continued involvement in cycling events. Alongside a successful cycling career, worked as an economist.

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Timo Mäkinen

Race car driver and rally champion
Born
March 18th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 79 years old

A Finnish race car driver achieved prominence in the 1960s as a rally driver. Competed successfully in the Monte Carlo Rally, winning the event in 1965. Drove for renowned teams including BMC and Ford, showcasing skills in rallying and circuit racing. Contributed to the development of rallying as a competitive sport, impacting the motorsport community.

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Irina Ratushinskaya

Russian Poet and Author of 'Gray is the Color'
Born
March 4th, 1954 72 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1954, a Russian poet and author gained recognition for literary works that reflected the struggles and resilience in the face of oppression. Imprisoned in the 1980s for her dissident views, her experiences in a Soviet labor camp formed the basis for her writing. 'Gray is the Color' became a significant work, shedding light on the plight of political prisoners. After her release, she continued to write and advocate for human rights, contributing to international awareness of freedom of expression. Ratushinskaya's poetry is characterized by its emotional depth and themes of hope and defiance against injustice.

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Halim El-Dabh

Composer and educator, 'The Son of the Nile'
Born
March 4th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 96 years old

Born in Egypt and later residing in the United States, a composer and educator made significant contributions to contemporary music. Studied at institutions such as the University of Cairo and Columbia University. Developed a unique style that blended traditional Egyptian music with modern compositions. Pioneered the use of electronic music in the 20th century, which distinguished his works in both concert and educational contexts. Taught at various institutions, sharing insights into music theory and composition.

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Sabine Oberhauser

Austrian physician and politician
Born
August 30th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 54 years old

Served as an Austrian physician and member of the Social Democratic Party. Held the position of Minister for Health from 2014 to 2017. Engaged in various health policies and reforms during time in office. Contributed to medical and health discussions within the Austrian government.

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John B. Anderson

Politician and presidential candidate
Born
February 15th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 95 years old

Born in 1922, a Swedish-American lawyer and politician served as a U.S. Representative from Illinois. Initially a Republican, shifted to an independent candidate during the 1980 presidential election, running on a platform focused on social justice, economic reform, and environmental protection. Played a significant role in advocating for governmental reform and worked on various legislative initiatives during time in Congress.

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Norman C. Deno

Chemist and plant scientist
Born
February 15th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 96 years old

A chemist and plant scientist focused on the development of various scientific methodologies. Contributed significantly to research in organic chemistry and plant sciences, particularly in the area of phenolic compounds. Served as a professor at the University of Illinois, guiding numerous students in the field of chemistry. Made notable advancements in the understanding of the synthesis and properties of plant compounds, influencing future studies in the discipline.

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Ludvig Faddeev

Mathematician, physicist, Faddeev equations
Born
March 23rd, 1934 92 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed extensively to theoretical physics and mathematics. Developed the Faddeev equations, crucial for understanding quantum field theory and many-body problems. Worked on the algebraic approach to quantum theory and made significant advancements in the understanding of the quantum inverse scattering method. Served as a professor at the St. Petersburg State University, influencing many students and researchers in the field.

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Jannis Kounellis

Greek painter and sculptor; Arte Povera artist
Born
March 23rd, 1936 90 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1936, this artist emerged as a leading figure in the Arte Povera movement, which emphasized the use of everyday materials to create compelling artwork. The artist's work combined painting and sculpture, using diverse materials such as soil, stones, and metals. Exhibited in numerous prestigious galleries worldwide, one notable installation included the use of live animals and organic materials, challenging traditional art conventions. The artist's contributions significantly shaped contemporary art discourse, influencing subsequent generations of artists.

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