What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Walt Davis

American athlete and Olympian
Born
January 5th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 89 years old

Competed in track and field, specializing in hurdles. Achieved success in the 1952 Summer Olympics held in Helsinki, Finland, winning a bronze medal in the 400 meters hurdles. Contributed to collegiate athletics, particularly at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where notable performances came during the early 1950s. Held records in various events and provided insights and coaching to future athletes.

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Peter Bonetti

English footballer and coach
Born
September 27th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 79 years old

A goalkeeper, played primarily for Chelsea Football Club from 1958 to 1979, establishing a reputation as one of the finest in the English game. Bonetti made over 400 appearances for Chelsea, winning the FA Cup in 1970. Represented the England national team, earning 37 caps between 1966 and 1972. After retiring from playing, transitioned into coaching roles, including a stint as a coach for the England U21 team.

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Mac MacLeod

English musician and band leader
Born
July 9th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1941, a musician gained prominence as a member of the band Sailor, achieving success in the 1970s. The band is recognized for their hit singles, combining pop and progressive rock elements. Contributions included playing guitar and providing vocals. The group released several albums, with notable tracks that charted in the UK and internationally. Later, involvement in various musical projects continued throughout the decades, showcasing versatility and creativity in the music industry.

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Bob Armstrong

Wrestler and trainer with a famous career
Born
October 3rd, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 81 years old

Acclaimed in professional wrestling, earned recognition from his performances in the National Wrestling Alliance from the 1960s through the 1990s. Played pivotal roles in wrestling promotions, participating in various matches across the United States. Also worked as a trainer, mentoring numerous wrestlers who made significant careers in the sport. His work with the Georgia Championship Wrestling solidified a legacy in the industry, influencing generations of wrestlers. Received accolades for outstanding contributions that spanned decades.

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Jack Baldwin

Chemist and academic specializing in organic chemistry
Born
August 8th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 82 years old

Contributions to the field of organic chemistry included significant research on reaction mechanisms and stereochemistry. Engaged in teaching and mentoring at a prominent university, influencing many students and researchers in the discipline. Published numerous articles in leading scientific journals, establishing a respected reputation in the academic community. Played a pivotal role in advancements in chemical education and methodology.

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Ain Kaalep

Estonian poet and playwright
Born
June 4th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 94 years old

Born in Estonia, contributed significantly to Estonian literature as a poet, playwright, and critic. Engaged in writing throughout various literary movements, producing influential works that explored themes of national identity and personal reflection. Worked extensively within the cultural landscape of Estonia, promoting literature and theater during and after the Soviet era.

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Ben Bova

American science fiction author and editor
Born
November 8th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 88 years old

Bova was a prolific American journalist and author who wrote extensively in the science fiction genre. Bova served as an editor for various science fiction publications, including Analog Science Fiction and Science Fact. He authored numerous novels, many of which explored themes of space exploration and the future of humanity. Significant works include 'The Exiles Trilogy' and 'Mars.' Additionally, Bova was involved in the development of the space program as a consultant and contributed to advancing public understanding of science and technology through writing.

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Hau Pei-tsun

Premier of the Republic of China
Born
July 13th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 101 years old

Held the position of 13th Premier of the Republic of China from 1989 to 1990. Played a significant role in the Taiwanese government during a period of political transition. Previously served as the Minister of National Defense, focusing on military modernization and defense strategies. His tenure in public service included active involvement in shaping defense policies amidst regional tensions.

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Hosni Mubarak

Egyptian President and Air Marshal
Born
May 4th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 92 years old

Served as the fourth President of Egypt from 1981 to 2011. Attended military academy and rose through the ranks of the Egyptian Air Force, eventually leading it as air marshal. Oversaw significant economic reforms and maintained peace with Israel through the Camp David Accords. Presided over Egypt during various regional conflicts and uprisings, notably during the Arab Spring. Resigned amidst public protests against his rule and faced legal proceedings following his departure from office.

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