What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Phil Niekro

Baseball player and manager with knuckleball
Born
April 1st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1939, a prominent baseball player and manager, primarily recognized for an exceptional career as a knuckleball pitcher. Played major league baseball for teams like the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves and the New York Yankees, spanning over 20 seasons. Accumulated more than 300 career wins, making him one of the few pitchers to achieve this milestone. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1997, marking the recognition of a significant contribution to the sport. Later transitioned to coaching, offering insights on pitching mechanics and strategies.

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Tony Elliott

Publisher, founder of Time Out
Born
January 7th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 73 years old

Founded Time Out magazine in 1968, establishing a platform for cultural and entertainment information in London. The magazine expanded to various cities worldwide, providing event listings, reviews, and articles about food, nightlife, and arts. It became a leading source of information for locals and tourists alike. Oversaw the growth and transformation of the publication through print and digital media for decades.

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Monu Mukhopadhyay

Indian Bengali actor known for films
Born
March 1st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 90 years old

An actor in Bengali cinema, started career in the 1950s. Gained recognition for performances in various films, showcasing skills in drama and comedy. Collaborated with notable directors and was a prominent figure in regional cinema. Also appeared on television, contributing to the entertainment industry. Carried a significant presence in Bengali theatre, enhancing cultural narratives through performances.

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Pat Stapleton

Ice hockey player, 1966 World Champion
Born
July 4th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1940, played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the Chicago Black Hawks. Represented Canada in international competitions, contributing to the national team's success. Played a pivotal role in the 1966 World Championship where Canada secured the gold medal. His career was marked by exceptional skills on the ice, establishing a legacy among defensemen in the sport.

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Owen Arthur

Barbadian economist and politician
Born
October 17th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Barbados from 1994 to 2008. Contributed to the country's economic policies and was influential in the development of Barbados's financial services sector. Played a key role in regional integration, advocating for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). He also fostered investments in tourism and education, further shaping the island's economic landscape.

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Roger Scruton

Philosopher and writer on aesthetics
Born
February 27th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 76 years old

An English philosopher and writer focused on aesthetics, political philosophy, and culture. Contributed significantly to conservative thought and served as a prominent public intellectual. Authored several influential books, including 'The Aesthetics of Music' and 'How to Be a Conservative'. Founded the magazine 'The Salisbury Review' to promote conservative views.

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Alison Lurie

Author and academic known for 'Foreign Affairs'
Born
September 3rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 94 years old

An American author and academic, distinguished in the fields of literature and education. Authored several acclaimed novels and scholarly works, with a significant contribution to the understanding of contemporary American culture and society. 'Foreign Affairs' won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1985, showcasing the complexities of love and relationships among intellectuals. As a professor, offered insights into literature, particularly in the realm of modern fiction, impacting generations of students. Engaged in writing criticism and essays, further illustrating themes of social observation and human behavior.

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Armen Dzhigarkhanyan

Soviet Armenian actor and director
Born
October 3rd, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent actor and director in Soviet and Armenian cinema, he gained widespread recognition through roles in both film and theater. An alumnus of the Yerevan State Institute of Theatre and Cinematography, he made significant contributions to the performing arts in the Soviet Union. An impactful figure in the Armenian cultural scene, he became the founder of the Dzhigarkhanyan Theater in Yerevan, which showcased numerous productions. His portrayal in the film 'Mimino' and his work in various melodramas solidified his legacy. He appeared in over 70 films and became a cultural icon, especially in the post-Soviet period.

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Tommy Turtle

British soldier
Born
December 24th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 70 years old

Served in the British Army during critical military engagements. Participated in various operations, including deployments that involved combat and peacekeeping. Achieved the rank of Sergeant, demonstrating leadership and commitment to service. After retirement, contributed to veteran support organizations and worked on initiatives to aid transitioning soldiers.

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