What Happened This Year 2020
People Who Died in 2020
Soumaïla Cissé
An engineer and politician from Mali entered politics in the 1990s. Served as the Minister of Finance and played an influential role in the formation of the Malian political landscape. Acted as the leader of the Union for the Republic and Democracy party. Candidated for the presidency several times, including in 2013 and 2020, highlighting commitments to democracy and governance. Held important roles in various national and international organizations.
Continue ReadingBruce Dawe
An influential Australian poet and academic active in the 20th century. Composed a range of poetry that reflects the Australian experience and explores themes of war, life, and society. Published significant collections including 'No Fixed Address' and 'The Simple Things'. Worked as a teacher and participated in various academic and community engagements. His literary contributions have been recognized and included in anthologies.
Continue ReadingRon Tauranac
An engineer and businessman specialized in motorsport design and construction. Founded the successful racing car manufacturer, Tauranac Engineering, which produced cars that competed in Formula One and other racing series. Developed multiple chassis that won numerous championships in various racing categories. Actively contributed to the engineering and design aspects of the sport, influencing car development.
Continue ReadingGenesis P-Orridge
An influential figure in the industrial music scene, contributed significantly to the genre through pioneering experimental projects. Co-founded the band Throbbing Gristle, which became a foundational element in the development of industrial music. Also formed Psychic TV, which blended diverse musical styles with performance art, exploring controversial themes. Engaged in performance art that challenged conventional perceptions of identity and gender.
Continue ReadingFred Singer
This physicist emigrated from Austria to the United States, contributing significantly to atmospheric and space sciences. Worked at institutions including NASA and the University of Virginia. Instrumental in promoting the idea that climate change is not primarily driven by human activities. Published numerous articles and books, influencing discussions around environmental policy and scientific research.
Continue ReadingJulie Felix
Born in 1938, this American-English singer-songwriter gained recognition during the 1960s folk music revival. Significant performances included appearances on television programs such as 'The Frost Report' and 'The Ed Sullivan Show.' This artist released over 15 albums throughout her career, with notable works including 'Julie Felix' and 'The Best of Julie Felix.' Originally starting in the United States, she found a prominent musical platform in the United Kingdom, where she became a staple in the folk music scene, frequently collaborating with other musicians and singers.
Continue ReadingEleanor Sokoloff
A distinguished pianist and educator, contributions spanned performance and teaching, shaping many musicians. Served as a faculty member at Temple University's Boyer College of Music and Dance, where numerous successful students emerged. Continued to perform throughout her career, sharing her love of music. Recognized in the music community for dedication to intercultural musical education.
Continue ReadingMargaret Burbidge
Contributed significantly to the understanding of stellar nucleosynthesis and galaxy formation. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Burbidge-Strong-McClure model, which explains the formation of elements in stars. Served as a professor at several prominent institutions, including the University of California, San Diego, and the University of California, Berkeley. Actively participated in numerous scientific organizations and initiatives, advocating for women in science throughout her career. Collaborated with notable scientists to produce influential research papers that shaped modern astrophysics.
Continue ReadingMirella Freni
Born in 1935, a prominent Italian soprano and actress gained acclaim in the opera world. Initially trained for success in voice, she made significant contributions to the operatic repertoire. Debuting at the age of 18, performances included leading roles in operas such as 'La Bohème', 'Carmen', and 'Madama Butterfly'. Collaborated with prestigious conductors and performed at renowned venues, including La Scala in Milan and the Vienna State Opera. Transitioned into film, appearing in adaptations of operatic works, and maintained an active teaching career, mentoring future generations of singers. Received numerous accolades throughout the career, solidifying a legacy in classical music.
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