What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Nicholas Bett

Kenyan track and field athlete
Born
1990 35 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2018 6 years ago — 28 years old

Specialized in the 400 meters hurdles and competed in international athletics events. Secured gold at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing, becoming the first Kenyan to win this event. Represents a significant achievement for Kenya in track and field sports. Participated in the Olympics and various international championships before passing in 2018.

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V S Naipaul

British writer, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2018 6 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Trinidad, V S Naipaul was a British writer celebrated for his novels that explored themes of colonialism and the post-colonial experience. His literary career began with the publication of 'The Mystic Masseur' in 1957, which garnered attention for its insight into Caribbean life. Over the years, he published numerous novels, essays, and non-fiction works, including 'A House for Mr Biswas,' which is considered a classic of post-colonial literature. He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2001 for his work that confronted historical and cultural themes with a distinctive narrative style. His literature often reflected his own experiences as an Indian diasporic writer, weaving intricate stories that depicted the struggles of identity and belonging.

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Jim Neidhart

Professional wrestler, tag team champion
Born
February 8th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2018 6 years ago — 63 years old

Professional wrestling career began in the late 1970s. Joined the World Wrestling Federation in 1985 as part of the tag team known as The Hart Foundation alongside Bret Hart. Captured the WWF Tag Team Championship twice, contributing to the popularity of the team during the late 1980s. Additionally, competed in various promotions, including WCW and independent circuits, establishing a reputation in the wrestling community. Known for his strongman persona and memorable performances in the ring. Retired from active competition in the mid-2000s but remained involved in the wrestling industry. Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2019 as part of the Hart Foundation.

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Jill Janus

American singer and heavy metal vocalist
Born
September 2nd, 1975 49 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2018 6 years ago — 42 years old

Born in 1975, this American singer gained recognition as the lead vocalist for the heavy metal band Huntress. The band released several albums, showcasing a blend of traditional heavy metal and modern influences. Janus was also noted for her distinctive vocal style and theatrical stage presence, which contributed to the band's popularity in the metal scene. She performed at prominent music festivals and toured extensively in support of the band's releases. Janus was open about her struggles with mental health, advocating for awareness in the music industry.

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Aretha Franklin

Singer-songwriter, 'Respect'
Born
March 25th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2018 6 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent American singer-songwriter and pianist, this artist became a leading figure in soul music. Born in Memphis and raised in Detroit, began singing in church at a young age. The career spanned several decades, with numerous hit records and albums. Achievements include a historic signing with Atlantic Records and the release of the groundbreaking album 'I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You'. Instrumental in popularizing soul music, received multiple Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Additionally, contributed to the civil rights movement through music and public efforts.

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Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Indian politician and Prime Minister
Born
December 25th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2018 6 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the 10th Prime Minister of India, holding office from 1998 to 2004. Was a prominent leader in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and played a significant role in shaping Indian politics. Prior to his tenure as Prime Minister, served in various ministerial roles and was a member of the Lok Sabha for multiple terms. Recognized for his oratory skills and poetic contributions, published several volumes of poetry in Hindi.

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Kofi Annan

Diplomat and 7th UN Secretary-General
Born
April 8th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2018 6 years ago — 80 years old

An economist and diplomat served as the 7th Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1997 to 2006. Played a significant role in international diplomacy and global peace efforts. Oversaw major initiatives including the UN Millennium Development Goals and efforts to reform the UN. Most notably, received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001 alongside the United Nations for their work in fostering a better organized and more peaceful world.

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Uri Avnery

Israeli politician and peace activist
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2018 6 years ago — 95 years old

A writer and politician active in Israeli politics, featured prominently in peace activism throughout the late 20th century. Founded the Gush Shalom movement advocating for peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Served multiple terms in the Knesset, where efforts focused on promoting dialogue and understanding between both sides. Authored several books and articles detailing perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Contributed to the discourse on peace through public speaking and political rallies.

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Stefán Karl Stefánsson

Icelandic actor best known for LazyTown
Born
July 10th, 1975 49 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2018 6 years ago — 43 years old

An Icelandic actor gained prominence for portraying the character Robbie Rotten in the children's television series LazyTown. The show, which premiered in 2004, featured a mix of live-action and puppetry and became popular among younger audiences. Besides this role, the actor worked in various theatrical productions throughout his career. He also lent his voice to animated projects and participated in other TV series and films, contributing to the entertainment industry both in Iceland and internationally.

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