What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Joe Morgan

Baseball Hall of Famer and second baseman
Born
September 19th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 77 years old

Played Major League Baseball primarily as a second baseman from 1963 to 1984. Most notable tenure was with the Cincinnati Reds, contributing to the team's success during the 'Big Red Machine' era. Helped the Reds win two World Series championships in 1975 and 1976. Earned two National League Most Valuable Player awards in 1975 and 1976. Also played for the Houston Astros and the Philadelphia Phillies, finishing his career with significant statistics.

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Pierre Nkurunziza

Burundian politician and president
Born
December 18th, 1963 61 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1963, this individual served as the 9th President of Burundi from 2005 to 2020. Initially a soldier, he participated in the civil war in Burundi and later became a prominent political figure. His presidency was marked by significant political turmoil and controversy, particularly related to his decision to run for a third term in 2015, which led to widespread protests and violence. After leaving office, the country continued to face challenges regarding governance and human rights. This individual played a crucial role in shaping contemporary Burundi's political landscape.

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Park Won-soon

South Korean lawyer and politician
Born
March 26th, 1956 68 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 64 years old

Serving as the 35th Mayor of Seoul, significant policies were implemented during the tenure to enhance urban living and social welfare. Prior to holding the mayoral office, focused on human rights and social justice, advocating for various legal reforms and rights of the underprivileged. Active in politics and civil society, contributed to the advancement of democratic practices in South Korea. Credited with fostering public engagement in city governance and promoting digital administration.

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Lyle Mays

American Keyboardist and Composer
Born
November 27th, 1953 71 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 67 years old

A keyboardist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz fusion genre. Collaborated with Pat Metheny in the Pat Metheny Group, helping to shape the group's distinctive sound through innovative arrangements and compositions. Mays was instrumental in the success of the group, receiving multiple Grammy Awards. His work featured a blend of elements from jazz, rock, and classical music, showcasing a broad musical palette. Also produced and arranged several albums, solidifying the group's prominence in music.

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Tom Berryhill

Businessman and politician from California
Born
August 27th, 1953 71 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 67 years old

A businessman and political figure from California, held the position of California State Assembly member from 2012 to 2018. Focused on issues such as economic development and education during tenure in the Assembly. Engaged in the business sector prior to entering politics, contributing to local economic initiatives.

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Michel Piccoli

French actor and director, 'The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie'
Born
December 27th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 95 years old

Born in 1925, this individual had a prolific career in cinema, characterized by collaborations with notable directors. Worked extensively in French cinema, participating in over 200 films across six decades. Transitioned from stage acting to film, gaining prominence in the 1960s. Contributed as a director and producer as well, enhancing the French film landscape with a range of performances that showed versatility and depth. Participated in critically acclaimed films such as 'The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie' and 'Belle de Jour', showcasing a blend of dramatic and comedic roles. Continued to work in film until the late 2010s, leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to the arts.

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Leon Fleisher

Pianist and conductor, recorded Rachmaninoff
Born
July 23rd, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent American pianist and conductor, this individual gained recognition for exceptional performances and recordings. Notably, recorded all of Rachmaninoff's piano concertos. Additionally, served as music director for various orchestras and contributed significantly to music education through teaching. Overcame physical challenges in later years, adapting to a new career as a conductor and continuing to perform.

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Wes Unseld

Basketball player, coach, and manager
Born
March 14th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent basketball player, coach, and manager, he played as a center for the Baltimore Bullets from 1968 to 1981. He was elected to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1988. After retiring as a player, served as the head coach for the Bullets from 1988 to 1994 and later in various managerial roles. His style of play and effectiveness on the court set him apart as a significant figure in the history of basketball.

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Ebrahim Amini

Iranian politician and political figure
Born
June 30th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 95 years old

Born in 1925, a prominent figure in Iranian politics, significantly contributed to the National Front, an important political organization advocating for democracy and independence from foreign influence. Served as a member of the Iranian parliament during the early years of the Islamic Republic, actively participating in legislative processes until the late 1970s. Advocated for various reforms within the context of Iran's political landscape, focusing on civil rights and autonomy. Played a pivotal role in the resistance against authoritarian regimes throughout the mid-20th century, emphasizing the need for democratic governance in Iran.

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