What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Zurab Sotkilava

Operatic tenor with acclaimed performances
Born
March 12th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent operatic tenor from Georgia, dedicated much of his career to the performance of classic operas. Gained recognition for powerful performances at renowned opera houses. Collaborated with various orchestras and participated in international competitions, achieving noteworthy accolades. Held positions at leading opera companies and performed under notable conductors. His contributions to the operatic repertoire left a significant mark in the field.

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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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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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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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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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Rabi Ray

Indian politician and Lok Sabha Speaker
Born
November 26th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1926, this individual served as a prominent Indian politician. Holding the position of the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1989 to 1991, significant contributions were made to parliamentary proceedings and governance. Throughout a political career, involvement spanned various social and political issues. Active in the Indian national movement, advocated for rural development, education, and farmers' rights. In addition to political roles, worked within the social sector to promote grassroots leadership and community development initiatives.

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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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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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