What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Leila Abashidze

Georgian actress in film and theater
Born
August 1st, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 89 years old

Born in Georgia, an actress gained recognition for work in theatre and cinema. Early career included performances in prominent Georgian theatrical productions. Achieved fame with roles in films during the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in 'The Wishing Tree' and 'The Legend of the White Stallion'. Contributed to the cultural landscape of Georgian performing arts through numerous performances. Directed and nurtured younger talent in the acting community, leaving a legacy within the theatre world.

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Karunanidhi

Indian politician and screenwriter
Born
June 3rd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent Indian politician and influential screenwriter, served as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for five terms. Contributed significantly to Tamil cinema through screenwriting, with works that shaped the industry. Played a key role in the Dravidian movement, advocating for social justice and cultural identity in Tamil Nadu. Involved in politics from a young age, founded the political party DMK and was instrumental in implementing various social welfare programs during his tenure.

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Tim O'Connor

American actor in 'Peyton Place'
Born
July 3rd, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 91 years old

A notable American actor, recognized for work in television and film. Gained prominence with a role in the soap opera 'Peyton Place', which aired from 1964 to 1969. Contributed to various other television series, including 'The Mod Squad' and 'The Six Million Dollar Man'. Appeared in films such as 'The Graduate'. O'Connor supported the entertainment industry through his consistent performances over several decades.

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Jassem Alwan

Syrian Army Officer
Born
July 4th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 90 years old

Served as a high-ranking officer in the Syrian Army. Played a significant role during the early years of the Syrian Arab Republic and was involved in major military operations and political developments within the country. Contributed to military strategy and leadership during critical periods of conflict. His career included engagements that shaped the military landscape of Syria.

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László Tábori

Hungarian runner and Olympic coach
Born
July 6th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 87 years old

An accomplished middle-distance runner and coach specializing in the 1500 meters, contributed significantly to long-distance running in Hungary. Competed in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, finishing fourth in the 1500 meters. After retiring as an athlete, transitioned into coaching, guiding numerous athletes to national and international success. Helped develop training methodologies that enhanced performance for upcoming generations of runners.

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Glenn Branca

Guitarist and composer of avant-garde music
Born
October 6th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 70 years old

An influential guitarist and composer made significant contributions to avant-garde music and minimalist composition. Branca's work focused on experimental guitar tunings and unconventional performance techniques. He established the iconic group The Glenn Branca Ensemble, which helped shape the sound of New York's experimental music scene. Branca’s most acclaimed composition, ‘The Ascension’, is noted for its innovative use of guitar orchestration and remains a key work in the contemporary classical landscape.

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Mathilde Krim

Medical researcher and health educator
Born
July 9th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent medical researcher and health educator focused on AIDS research and education. Founded the American Foundation for AIDS Research in 1985, which provided significant funding for AIDS research. Published numerous scientific papers and advocated for public health policies to combat the AIDS epidemic. Actively participated in efforts to reduce stigma and promote awareness of HIV/AIDS.

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Elizabeth Hawley

Journalist and historian of Nepal
Born
November 9th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 95 years old

Born in the United States and later relocating to Nepal, contributed extensively to the documentation of the history of mountaineering in the Himalayas. Served as a correspondent for various media outlets, covering significant events and developments in the region. Established a detailed archive of historical climbs and expeditions, playing a crucial role in the preservation of mountaineering history. Published works include 'Himalayan Climber' and 'The Himalayan Database,' which became essential references for climbers and historians alike.

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Daniel Akaka

American politician and senator
Born
September 11th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 94 years old

Served as a United States Senator from Hawaii from 1990 to 2013. Was the first Native Hawaiian elected to the U.S. Senate. Prior to his Senate career, held various positions in education and government, including serving as the director of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Played a key role in advancing legislation related to veterans, education, and Native Hawaiian rights.

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