What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Leila Abashidze

Georgian actress in film and theater
Born
August 1st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2018 8 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 102 years ago
Died
2018 8 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 98 years ago
Died
2018 8 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 97 years ago
Died
2018 8 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 94 years ago
Died
2018 8 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 77 years ago
Died
2018 8 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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John Waller

Historical European martial arts pioneer
Born
August 12th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 78 years old

A significant figure in the revival of Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), contributed extensive research into medieval fighting techniques and trained numerous practitioners. Established a prominent presence in the HEMA community through workshops and seminars, influencing the development of this martial art globally.

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Anne Donovan

Basketball player and coach, Olympic gold medalist
Born
November 1st, 1961 64 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent basketball player and coach, achieved significant success in both roles. Played for Old Dominion University, leading the team to an AIAW national championship in 1980. Represented the United States in international competitions, contributing to the team's success in the 1984 Olympics, where the team won a gold medal. Transitioned to coaching, including notable positions at Seton Hall, East Carolina University, and George Washington University, and served as an assistant for the U.S. women's national team, winning a gold medal at the 2010 FIBA World Championship. Inducted into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in 1999.

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Mohammed Karim Lamrani

Moroccan businessman and Prime Minister
Born
May 1st, 1919 107 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 99 years old

Born in 1919, held the office of Prime Minister of Morocco during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Focused on economic development and modernization in Morocco. Also had a significant career in the private sector as a businessman, contributing to various industries. Participated in shaping the country’s economic policies.

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