What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Kobe Bryant

Basketball player, 5-time NBA champion
Born
August 23rd, 1978 46 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2020 5 years ago — 41 years old

An American basketball player, played 20 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. Achieved five NBA championships and earned two NBA Finals MVP awards. Scored 81 points in a single game against the Toronto Raptors, the second-highest in NBA history. Represented the United States in international competitions, winning two Olympic gold medals in basketball. Transitioned to various ventures post-retirement, including a successful film project.

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Lina Ben Mhenni

Tunisian Internet activist and blogger
Born
1983 42 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2020 5 years ago — 37 years old

A prominent Internet activist and blogger, advocacy centered around digital rights and freedom of expression. Gained recognition during the Tunisian Revolution, providing coverage of protests and human rights abuses. Worked on raising awareness of issues related to censorship and state repression. Wrote a blog that documented the events of the uprising, influencing public opinion and discussion. Served as a voice for those marginalized in society, particularly in the digital landscape.

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Bernard Ebbers

Businessman, co-founder of WorldCom
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2020 5 years ago — 79 years old

Co-founded WorldCom, a telecommunications company, and served as CEO from its inception in 1983 until 2002. Under leadership, WorldCom grew to become one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world. Oversaw the company’s acquisition of MCI in 1997, which significantly expanded its market share. In 2002, WorldCom declared bankruptcy amid a massive accounting scandal, marking one of the largest bankruptcies in U.S. history. Subsequently faced legal repercussions, resulting in a sentence of 25 years in prison for securities fraud.

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George Steiner

Philosopher and literary critic
Born
April 23rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2020 5 years ago — 90 years old

This philosopher, author, and critic contributed significantly to literary criticism and philosophy. Born in France and later becoming an American citizen, he explored themes of language, culture, and the arts through numerous writings. His works often examined the relationship between literature and morality. Steiner's influential books include 'After Babel', which discusses translation and the role of language, and 'Real Presences', which considers the nature of art and reality. Throughout his career, he held academic positions at prestigious institutions, including Harvard University and the University of Geneva.

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Daniel arap Moi

Former President of Kenya
Born
September 2nd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2020 5 years ago — 95 years old

Served as the President of Kenya from 1978 to 2002. Played a pivotal role in shaping Kenyan politics post-independence. Initiated political and economic reforms during tenure. Expanded the education system and infrastructure across the country. Oversaw Kenya's transition to multi-party politics in the 1990s. Faced criticism for human rights abuses and corruption allegations during presidency.

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Kirk Douglas

American actor and producer
Born
December 9th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2020 5 years ago — 103 years old

An iconic American actor achieved recognition for performances in film and television. Gained prominence with the 1951 film "Ace in the Hole" and delivered a memorable performance in "Spartacus" in 1960, which also marked his role as a producer. Douglas's career spanned over seven decades, and he established a reputation for portraying strong characters. Received the Academy Award for Lifetime Achievement in 1996. Authored several books detailing his life and experiences, showcasing a multifaceted career in the entertainment industry.

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Jhon Jairo Velásquez

Colombian drug dealer and hitman
Born
1962 63 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2020 5 years ago — 58 years old

Involved in organized crime, played a significant role as a hitman for the Medellín Cartel. Gained notoriety during the 1980s and 1990s while working under Pablo Escobar. Captured multiple times and served prison sentences for crimes, including murder and drug trafficking. Transitioned to a media presence after release, engaging with audiences through social media and video content, discussing criminal life and history of the cartel.

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Li Wenliang

Ophthalmologist who warned about COVID-19
Born
1986 39 years ago
Died
February 7th, 2020 5 years ago — 34 years old

An ophthalmologist practiced in Wuhan, China. Initially raised alarms about a new virus outbreak in December 2019. Encouraged fellow medical professionals to take precautions regarding the virus that would later be identified as COVID-19. Faced repercussions from local authorities for disseminating this information. Died on February 7, 2020, after contracting the virus while treating patients. His death sparked widespread public mourning and discussions on freedom of speech in China.

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Robert Conrad

American actor known for 'Wild Wild West'
Born
March 1st, 1935 90 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2020 5 years ago — 84 years old

Achieved prominence as an American actor and producer, primarily during the 1960s and 1970s. Gained widespread recognition for the role of James West in the television series 'The Wild Wild West', which blended Western and science fiction elements. Later starred in the series 'Baa Baa Black Sheep', portraying Colonel Greg 'Pappy' Boyington, and contributed to various television films and movies. In addition to acting, engaged in producing and was involved in other entertainment projects throughout his career.

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