What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Alan R. Battersby

Chemist and academic, contributed to biochemistry
Born
March 4th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of biosynthesis and the chemistry involved in producing important biological substances. Worked extensively on the structure and function of pigments and other natural products. Served as a professor at the University of Cambridge and made notable contributions to research and education in organic chemistry.

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Rezső Nyers

Hungarian politician and statesman
Born
March 21st, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent Hungarian politician who held various positions in the government. Served as Minister of Finance and was influential in the economic policies of Hungary. Participated in numerous political reforms throughout the late 20th century, particularly in the period following the fall of communism. Involved with the Hungarian Socialist Workers' Party, contributing to the transition towards a multiparty system. Advocated for economic stability and social welfare during times of significant national change.

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Beat Richner

Pediatrician and cellist, founder of Kantha Bopha
Born
March 13th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed to children's health in Cambodia through the establishment of Kantha Bopha hospitals. Played cello in various orchestras while advocating for child healthcare. Worked extensively to provide medical care to children in dire situations, successfully securing funding and support for multiple health initiatives across the country. Engaged in numerous concert performances to raise awareness and funds for the hospitals, combining a passion for music with a commitment to healthcare.

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Alan Bean

NASA astronaut and Apollo 12 commander
Born
March 15th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 86 years old

Served as a naval officer and test pilot before joining NASA. Participated in the Apollo 12 mission, becoming the fourth person to walk on the Moon. After retiring from NASA, focused on painting and capturing the experience of space exploration through art. Bean's works reflect his experiences and observations during his time as an astronaut.

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Bernardo Bertolucci

Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
March 16th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent figure in cinema, the Italian director and screenwriter contributed significantly to world film with a unique visual style and thought-provoking narratives. Debuting with the film 'La Commare Secca' in 1962, gained international acclaim with 'The Last Tango in Paris' in 1972, a role that sparked controversy and dialogue. Won an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film for 'The Last Emperor' in 1988. Explored themes of politics, sexuality, and identity in various works throughout his career, influencing filmmakers worldwide.

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Ivan Mauger

Speedway rider and world champion
Born
October 4th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent speedway rider, made significant contributions to the sport through competitive achievements. Competed primarily in the 1960s and 1970s, securing a total of six World Speedway Championships. Influenced the sport's evolution with innovative techniques and training methods. Successful career included riding for various teams, most notably the New Zealand team. Continued involvement in speedway as a trainer and promoter after retirement.

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Philip Roth

American novelist, award-winning author
Born
March 19th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 85 years old

An influential American novelist who explored themes of identity, sexuality, and Jewish-American life. Major works include 'Portnoy's Complaint', which gained attention for its frankness about sexuality, and 'American Pastoral', which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1998. Roth's writing often reflected personal experiences and cultural critiques, showcasing a deep engagement with issues of America’s social fabric. The author published numerous novels, essays, and short stories, earning a prominent position in contemporary literature.

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Roy Clark

American musician and television star
Born
April 15th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 85 years old

An influential figure in country music, with a career spanning several decades. Gained fame as a performer on the television show 'Hee Haw', which showcased country music and rural humor. Also excelled as a musician, known for exceptional guitar and banjo playing. In addition to solo performances, collaborated with various artists throughout the years. Received recognition for contributions to music with several awards, including the Country Music Association Male Vocalist of the Year.

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Cecil Taylor

American pianist and avant-garde composer
Born
March 25th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 89 years old

Cecil Taylor was an American pianist and composer associated with avant-garde jazz. Starting in the late 1950s, he developed a unique approach to improvisation and composition, blending elements of free jazz with classical influences. Taylor formed key groups and ensembles that contributed to the evolution of jazz, pushing the boundaries of rhythm and harmonic structure. His performances were marked by a distinctive style characterized by high energy and intricate, percussive piano work. Throughout his career, Taylor recorded numerous albums and collaborated with various artists in the jazz and contemporary music scenes.

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