What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Habib Thiam

Senegalese politician and prime minister
Born
January 21st, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2017 8 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 78 years ago
Died
2017 8 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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Pete Hamilton

Race car driver, Daytona 500 winner
Born
July 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2017 8 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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Ludvig Faddeev

Mathematician, physicist, Faddeev equations
Born
March 23rd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2017 8 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 89 years ago
Died
2017 8 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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William Goodhart

English lawyer and politician
Born
January 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician in England, played a significant role in the legislative processes during his career. Served as a member of the House of Lords after being made a life peer in 1997. Was involved in various legal and political reforms, contributing his expertise to discussions on civil liberties and human rights. Also held key positions in several legal organizations and was influential in shaping policies within the British legal framework.

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Rabi Ray

Indian politician and Lok Sabha Speaker
Born
November 26th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2017 8 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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Chris Wiggins

Canadian actor in 'The Starlost'
Born
January 13th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 86 years old

An English-born Canadian actor who gained recognition for work in television and film. Notably starred in the Canadian science fiction series 'The Starlost' as the character Devon. Also lent talent to various roles in productions such as 'The Canadian Conspiracy' and 'The Incredible Hulk'. Active in the industry for several decades, contributing to both live-action performances and voice work.

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Desmond Connell

Irish Cardinal and theologian
Born
March 24th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1926, a significant figure in the Roman Catholic Church. Served as the Archbishop of Dublin from 1988 to 2004. Contributed to various theological discussions and served in key positions within the church hierarchy. Participated in the papal conclave that elected Pope Benedict XVI in 2005. Involved in numerous pastoral initiatives during tenure as Archbishop, focusing on education and community services.

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