What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Reynaldo Bignone

41st President of Argentina
Born
January 21st, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the 41st President of Argentina from 1982 to 1983 during a transitional period following military rule. Led a government that oversaw the return to democratic elections after years of dictatorship. His presidency occurred during a time of significant economic challenges in the country, including inflation and deep social issues. After leaving office, faced various legal challenges related to human rights violations during the military regime.

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Idrissa Ouedraogo

Burkinabé film director and producer
Born
January 21st, 1954 72 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent Burkinabé director and producer, contributed significantly to African cinema. Directed the notable film 'Yaaba,' which received international acclaim and won numerous awards. Established a reputation for tackling socio-political themes within African societies through cinematic storytelling. Actively participated in film festivals across Africa and beyond, promoting African culture and dialogue through film. Played a vital role in the growth of the Burkinabé film industry and mentored emerging filmmakers.

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Patricia Morison

American actress and singer in Broadway
Born
March 19th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 103 years old

Born in 1915, an actress and singer gained prominence in Broadway productions. Starred in the original production of 'Kiss Me, Kate' as Lilli Vanessi, which earned a Tony nomination. Also featured in productions such as 'Zenda' and 'The King and I.' Transitioned to film and television, appearing in movies like 'The Great Ziegfeld.' Worked extensively in both stage and screen, gaining recognition for a powerful voice and strong stage presence. In later years, continued to perform and participate in various interviews reflecting on a celebrated career, contributing to the arts until retirement.

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Tito Francona

Baseball player and coach with notable MLB career
Born
November 4th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1933, this individual played major league baseball primarily as an outfielder and first baseman. Debuting in 1956, played for teams including the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago White Sox, and Boston Red Sox. During a career spanning over a decade, achieved a .272 batting average with 1,436 hits and 1,045 runs batted in. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching, serving as a coach for various MLB teams, including the Baltimore Orioles and the Philadelphia Phillies.

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Charles K. Kao

Physicist and engineer, Nobel laureate
Born
November 4th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 85 years old

A Chinese physicist and engineer contributed significantly to the development of fiber optics technology. His research in the 1960s laid the foundation for high-capacity telecommunications networks. Kao's innovative work demonstrated how light can be transmitted through fibers, leading to advancements in global communication systems. His groundbreaking contributions earned recognition within the scientific community and beyond, resulting in receipt of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2009. This achievement highlighted the importance of fiber optics in modern telecommunication infrastructures.

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Maryon Pittman Allen

American politician and journalist
Born
November 30th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent journalist and politician, focused on women's rights and political reform. Served in the Alabama House of Representatives and was an influential member of the Democratic Party. Authored various articles highlighting social issues and engaged in political discourse through media. Played a role in establishing organizations that advocated for women's equality and civic involvement.

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Bruce Hunter

American swimmer and Olympic medalist
Born
July 6th, 1939 87 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 79 years old

Competed in the 1960 Rome Olympics, winning a silver medal in the 400-meter freestyle. Achieved recognition in competitive swimming during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Made significant contributions to his college swimming team and set several records during his athletic career.

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Nancy Roman

American astronomer and Hubble leader
Born
May 16th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 93 years old

An American astronomer contributed significantly to the field of space science. Instrumental in the development of the Hubble Space Telescope, played a crucial role in its design and planning. Held positions at the Naval Research Laboratory and the Goddard Space Flight Center, serving as the first Chief of the Astronomy and Relativity Division at NASA. Focused on the study of astronomical objects and contributed to the understanding of various phenomena in space through satellite missions. Published works in scientific journals and engaged in outreach efforts to promote astronomy.

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Warwick Estevam Kerr

Brazilian geneticist and entomologist
Born
September 9th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 96 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of genetics and entomology. Focused on the study of honeybees and their genetic diversity. Played a key role in the introduction of the African honeybee to Brazil. Actively engaged in agricultural and ecological research, with a strong focus on the impact of genetic selection in various species.

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