What Happened This Year 2020
People Who Died in 2020
Eleanor 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 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 ReadingAmadou Toumani Touré
A military officer and politician, served as President of Mali from 2002 to 2012. Participated in a coup in 1991 that led to the transition from military rule to democracy. Oversaw significant political reforms and helped to stabilize the country after years of turmoil. Reelected in 2007, but faced challenges during his second term, including a rebellion in the north. In 2012, another coup occurred, leading to his resignation and departure from office. Continued to play a role in national politics after leaving the presidency.
Continue ReadingSoumaïla 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 ReadingJack Steinberger
Contributed significantly to particle physics as an academic and researcher. Played a key role in the discovery of the muon neutrino in experiments conducted at CERN. His work on weak interactions in particle physics has been highly influential in the field. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1988, sharing the honor with two other physicists for contributions to the understanding of the structure of matter.
Continue ReadingBonnie Pointer
A singer achieved prominence in the music industry as a founding member of The Pointer Sisters, a vocal group known for blending R&B, pop, and country. The group gained major commercial success in the late 1970s and 1980s. Initially, the Pointer Sisters released an album in 1973 and soon followed with the hit single 'Fairytale,' which won a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group in 1975. The group further solidified its popularity with hits like 'Jump (For My Love)' and 'I'm So Excited.' Bonnie's distinctive voice was integral to the group’s success during this period. Following her departure from the group, she pursued a solo career, which included various recordings and performances.
Continue ReadingBhakti Charu Swami
A prominent leader within the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), served as a senior disciple of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Played a significant role in promoting Krishna consciousness worldwide, especially in India and the West. Wrote several books on spiritual philosophy, including commentaries on the Bhagavad-gita and the Srimad Bhagavatam. Engaged in numerous community services and outreach programs to spread the teachings of Krishna.
Continue ReadingMarius Žaliūkas
A professional footballer played primarily as a defender. Had a significant career in various clubs, including Hearts in Scotland and several Lithuanian teams. Represented Lithuania at the international level, earning multiple caps. Made notable contributions in domestic leagues and was part of key matches during his tenure in club football.
Continue ReadingAlexi Laiho
A prominent figure in the metal music scene, served as the lead guitarist and vocalist of the band Children of Bodom. Achieved recognition for a unique blend of melodic death metal and power metal. Released several critically acclaimed albums, including 'Follow the Reaper' and 'Hatebreeder', which contributed significantly to the band's popularity. Known for virtuosic guitar skills and a distinctive vocal style. After disbanding in 2019, continued to influence the genre until passing in 2020.
Continue Reading