What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Paul Gérin-Lajoie

Canadian lawyer and politician
Born
February 23rd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent figure in Canadian politics, contributed significantly to educational reform and legal affairs. Served as a member of the National Assembly of Quebec and held various ministerial roles, including Minister of Education. Played a key role in establishing policies that enhanced access to education across the province. After leaving politics, engaged in numerous international missions and advocacy for educational development.

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Patricia Hollis

English academic and politician
Born
May 24th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 77 years old

Baroness Hollis of Heigham served in the House of Lords as a Labour peer and made significant contributions in the fields of social policy and education. An academic background was established with a focus on government and social issues, leading to a parliamentary career where various social justice initiatives were championed. Involved in numerous committees, the work included advocacy for welfare reforms and educational improvements. A position as a government whip and later as a spokesperson for the Department for Work and Pensions highlighted leadership in legislative matters.

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Hamiet Bluiett

Jazz saxophonist and composer
Born
September 16th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent jazz saxophonist and composer, recognized for contributions to the avant-garde jazz movement. Played the baritone saxophone with various ensembles and collaborated with notable musicians. Gained attention for performances that blended traditional jazz with modern elements. Contributed to the development of the World Saxophone Quartet, which became influential in expanding the saxophone's role in jazz. Additionally, composed and arranged numerous original pieces, showcasing unique sounds and improvisational skills.

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Leon M. Lederman

Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate in Physics
Born
July 15th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 96 years old

A physicist and mathematician made significant contributions to particle physics. Lederman played a key role in the discovery of the muon neutrino while working at Columbia University. He served as director of Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory from 1979 to 1989, helping advance high-energy physics research. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1988 for contributions to the understanding of neutrinos, Lederman also authored several popular science books, including 'The God Particle', which explores the Higgs boson and its significance in the universe. His work in educational outreach aimed to increase interest in science and physics among students and the general public.

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Aldo Parisot

Cellist and music educator
Born
September 30th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 97 years old

Born in Brazil, a prominent cellist and educator became influential in the classical music community in the United States. Parisot studied at the Manhattan School of Music and had a long career as a performer and teacher. He held the position of principal cellist with the New Haven Symphony Orchestra and taught at Yale University for over four decades, shaping the future of numerous musicians. His expertise and dedication to music education earned respect among students and peers alike. Parisot gave masterclasses worldwide and was active in various festivals.

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Irena Szewińska

Polish sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
May 24th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent sprinter, this athlete excelled in various distances, particularly in 100m, 200m, and 400m events. Competed in four Olympic Games from 1964 to 1980, securing seven Olympic medals, including three golds. Set multiple world records throughout the career, contributing significantly to the field of athletics. Retired as one of the most accomplished female sprinters in history, leaving a lasting legacy in track and field.

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Ola Ullsten

Swedish politician and diplomat
Born
June 23rd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 87 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Sweden from 1978 to 1979. Held the position of Minister for Foreign Affairs from 1976 to 1978. Contributed to Sweden's diplomatic efforts and negotiations during the Cold War era. Actively engaged in international diplomacy and foreign relations throughout a political career spanning several decades.

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Chuck Stevens

Baseball player, Chicago Cubs 1944
Born
July 10th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 100 years old

Played Major League Baseball for the Chicago Cubs in 1944. He began his professional career in the minor leagues before making his way to the Cubs. Stevens also played in the Western Association, showcasing skills as an outfielder. His tenure in the major leagues was relatively brief, but he remains a part of the Cubs' history.

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Hans Henning Atrott

German author and theorist specializing in literature
Born
January 12th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 74 years old

An author and theorist, contributions include works on literary theory and philosophy. Focused on the interplay between literature and other forms of cultural expression, often exploring themes of existence, experience, and understanding. Engaged with various philosophical movements, advocating for a holistic understanding of literature. Published multiple books and articles, which are utilized in academic settings.

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