What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Miloš Forman

Czech-American film director and screenwriter
Born
February 18th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in cinema, significant contributions occurred during the late 20th century. Emigrated to the United States in the 1960s and gained recognition with films such as 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' and 'Amadeus'. 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' won five Academy Awards, including Best Director. 'Amadeus' also received critical acclaim, capturing eight Oscars at the 1985 Academy Awards. Forman's work often explored themes of freedom and individuality, utilizing unique storytelling techniques and character development.

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Sergey Litvinov

Russian hammer thrower and Olympic medalist
Born
January 23rd, 1958 67 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 60 years old

This athlete specialized in the hammer throw and achieved significant success on the international stage. Competed in the 1988 Seoul Olympics, winning a silver medal. Established a personal best throw of 84.24 meters in 1987, ranking among the top hammer throwers of that era. Dominated the national scene in Russia, securing multiple Soviet championships and setting national records during his competitive years.

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Bevan Congdon

Cricketer for New Zealand national team
Born
February 11th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 80 years old

Played first-class cricket for several teams, including Auckland and Central Districts. Represented New Zealand in Test matches and One Day Internationals. Participated in the 1975 Cricket World Cup. Worked as a cricket coach after retirement from playing.

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Nancy Wilson

Singer and actress, part of jazz trio
Born
February 20th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 81 years old

An influential figure in music and television, this artist gained prominence for contributions to jazz and pop music. Notable works include hits such as 'Guess Who I Saw Today' and collaborations with various artists, displaying versatility across genres. In television, standout performances included appearances on shows such as 'The Dean Martin Show' and 'Soul Train'. The significance of this artist in the industry extended beyond music, with accolades including three Grammy Awards for outstanding vocal performances. Throughout a career that spanned several decades, diverse styles and deep emotional expression characterized the work.

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Mehrdad Pahlbod

Iranian politician and cultural leader
Born
March 16th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 101 years old

Born in 1917, an influential figure in Iranian politics and culture who served in various governmental roles. Held the position of Minister of Culture and Arts and contributed to the development of national cultural policies. Focused on promoting arts and education within Iran. Engaged in numerous projects aimed at preserving Iranian heritage and traditions during a transformative period in the nation's history.

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Burton Richter

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 22nd, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 87 years old

A physicist who contributed significantly to the field of particle physics. Richter served as a professor at Stanford University and directed the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center. Significant research included the discovery of the J/ψ meson in collaboration with others at the SLAC. This work provided crucial insights into the structure of matter and confirmed the existence of the charm quark.

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Brendan Byrne

Governor of New Jersey
Born
April 1st, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 94 years old

Served as the 47th Governor of New Jersey from 1974 to 1982. Played a key role in progressive reforms in the state, particularly in education and environmental policy. Prior to governorship, served as a judge and in the New Jersey Assembly. His administration emphasized tax reform, including the introduction of the state income tax, and established new policies aimed at improving public services.

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Wally Moon

Baseball player and coach, All-Star
Born
April 3rd, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 88 years old

This individual played professional baseball as an outfielder and first baseman. Debuting in Major League Baseball with the St. Louis Cardinals, he had a successful career which included participation in three World Series. Recognized for exceptional hitting ability and consistency, this player earned an All-Star selection in 1959 and contributed to the Cardinals' 1964 World Series title. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching, imparting knowledge to younger athletes in various capacities.

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Lester James Peries

Sri Lankan film director and producer
Born
April 5th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 99 years old

A prominent figure in Sri Lankan cinema, this director, screenwriter, and producer made significant contributions to the film industry. He directed over 20 feature films, many of which received national and international acclaim. One landmark work, 'Mahagedara', showcased the complexities of rural life and is celebrated for its artistic achievements. His work often combined traditional Sri Lankan themes with innovative cinematic techniques, influencing generations of filmmakers in the region.

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