What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Robert W. Gore

Engineer, co-inventor of Gore-Tex
Born
April 15th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2020 4 years ago — 83 years old

An American engineer and businessman, contributed significantly to materials science. Co-invented Gore-Tex, a waterproof and breathable fabric, in 1969, which revolutionized the outdoor apparel industry. The innovation led to the establishment of W. L. Gore & Associates, a company focused on advanced materials and technology. Under leadership, the company expanded its product offerings and became a major player in various fields, including medical devices and electronics. The work in polymer technology extended beyond textiles to applications in industrial and consumer products.

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Ruth Bader Ginsburg

U.S. Supreme Court Justice
Born
March 15th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2020 4 years ago — 87 years old

Graduated from Columbia Law School and began a legal career focused on gender equality. Co-founded the Women’s Rights Project at the ACLU, arguing several groundbreaking cases that advanced women’s rights. Appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1993, serving as a strong advocate for civil liberties and gender equality. Continued to influence legal discussions until her passing in 2020.

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John Turner

Canadian lawyer and 17th Prime Minister
Born
June 7th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2020 4 years ago — 91 years old

Served as the 17th Prime Minister of Canada in 1984 for a brief period. Contributed significantly to Canadian politics as a member of the Liberal Party. Held several cabinet positions, including Minister of Finance and Minister of Justice, prior to becoming Prime Minister. Focused on issues such as trade and public health throughout his political career. Participated in various national and international dialogues during his time in office.

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Arthur Ashkin

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 2nd, 1922 102 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2020 4 years ago — 98 years old

This individual was an American physicist whose research significantly advanced the field of optical tweezers. Contributions to the understanding of laser physics led to the development of techniques that manipulate small particles with light. Work at Bell Labs facilitated breakthroughs in optical manipulation, impacting areas ranging from biology to materials science. The Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded in 2018 for achievements in this innovative domain.

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Juliette Gréco

French singer and actress in 'If the Villain Wins'
Born
February 7th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 2020 4 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1927, a French singer and actress gained recognition for powerful performances in music and film. Early career highlighted participation in the existentialist movement and collaborations with leading artists. Predominantly associated with chanson music, delivered iconic songs and embodied the spirit of post-war France. Acted in 'If the Villain Wins' and 'The Devil and the Ten Commandments,' showcasing significant dramatic talent. Gréco's work spanned several decades and influenced later generations of artists.

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Helen Reddy

Singer-songwriter and actress, 'I Am Woman'
Born
October 25th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2020 4 years ago — 78 years old

This artist gained recognition as a prominent singer-songwriter and actress in the 1970s. Known for the anthem 'I Am Woman,' which became a theme for the feminist movement, she topped the charts with various hits. The song won a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1973. In addition to her music career, she also appeared in film and television, most notably in the musical 'Pippin' and the TV series 'The Muppet Show.' Reddy's contributions to music and acting solidified her place in pop culture.

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Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah

Emir of Kuwait during pivotal reforms
Born
June 16th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2020 4 years ago — 91 years old

Served as Emir of Kuwait from 2006 until passing in 2020. Focused on diplomatic relations, emphasized mediation in regional conflicts, particularly in the Gulf region. Played a crucial role in maintaining Kuwait's stability post-Iraq War and championed humanitarian efforts globally. Implemented various reforms to enhance internal governance and social development within the country. Strengthened Kuwait's economic position through diversification efforts and attracted foreign investments.

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Kenzō Takada

Fashion Designer and Founder of Kenzo
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2020 4 years ago — 81 years old

A Japanese-French fashion designer, celebrated for establishing a globally recognized fashion brand. Launched the fashion house Kenzo in 1970 in Paris, blending Japanese aesthetics with French couture. Pioneered the use of bold colors, floral designs, and eclectic influences throughout collections. Expanded the brand into fragrances, accessories, and home goods, contributing to the global fashion landscape. Takada received several awards throughout the career, including the prestigious Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur in 2019.

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Johnny Nash

Singer-songwriter of 'I Can See Clearly Now'
Born
August 19th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
October 6th, 2020 4 years ago — 80 years old

An American singer-songwriter, achieved commercial success starting in the late 1960s with the hit single 'I Can See Clearly Now.' This song became a staple of popular music and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1972. Nash's career spanned several decades, during which he released a number of albums that combined elements of pop, reggae, and rock. He also worked as a producer and acted in films, contributing to the entertainment industry beyond his music career.

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