What Happened This Year 2020
People Who Died in 2020
Travis Roy
An ice hockey player sustained a life-changing injury just 11 seconds into his NCAA career at Boston University. This incident led to paralysis but prompted advocacy for individuals with spinal cord injuries. Established a foundation to support research for spinal cord injuries and facilitate the recovery of those affected. Served as a motivational speaker, sharing experiences and encouraging resilience in others facing adversity.
Continue ReadingHal Ketchum
A singer-songwriter and guitarist, notable for contributions to country music in the 1990s. Debuted with the album 'Past the Point of Rescue' in 1991, which featured several hit singles. Ketchum's music blends traditional country with contemporary sounds, appealing to a broad audience. He gained recognition for energetic performances and storytelling through lyrics.
Continue ReadingDámaso García
Professional baseball player and footballer had a career spanning several years in Major League Baseball. Played primarily as a second baseman, featuring prominent stints with the New York Yankees and the Toronto Blue Jays. Achieved an All-Star selection in 1984 after contributing significantly to the Blue Jays' success during that season. Transitioned to football, demonstrating versatile athletic abilities.
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 ReadingMike Moore
Served as the 34th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1990 to 1991. Held the position of president of the Labour Party and was a member of Parliament for many years. Worked extensively in union leadership roles before entering politics. Involved in various international trade discussions, representing New Zealand's interests on the global stage. After his term as Prime Minister, held significant positions in international organizations, including Director-General of the World Intellectual Property Organization.
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.
Continue ReadingEddie Johnson
Played professional basketball as a shooting guard in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Spent the majority of the career with the Phoenix Suns and also played for the Seattle SuperSonics, the Sacramento Kings, and the Atlanta Hawks. Earned a reputation as a skilled scorer and a reliable free-throw shooter. Was selected as an NBA All-Star in 1987 while with the Suns. After retirement, transitioned to a career in sports broadcasting.
Continue ReadingTabaré Vázquez
Served as President of Uruguay from 2005 to 2010 and again from 2015 to 2020. Vázquez was the first leftist president in Uruguay's history. Before his presidency, he held the position of mayor of Montevideo. Vázquez also had a medical career as an oncologist and was involved in health policy reforms during his political tenure. His administration focused on social policies, including healthcare and education reform. Vázquez passed away in 2020.
Continue ReadingHugh Downs
A prominent American journalist and television host, notable for a career spanning several decades in broadcast journalism. Served as co-anchor of ABC's '20/20' from its inception and contributed to various news programs, enhancing public understanding of complex issues. Hosted game shows including 'The Price Is Right' and 'Hollywood Squares', showcasing versatility in television. Held the Guinness World Record for the most hours on television, highlighting a significant presence in American media.
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