What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Ronald Graham

Mathematician and theoretical computer scientist
Born
October 31st, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 85 years old

Contributions included work in various fields of mathematics, particularly in combinatorics and graph theory. Served as a professor at the University of California, San Diego, influencing many students and researchers in the field. Collaborated with notable mathematicians, advancing the understanding of number theory and computational complexity. Was involved in the development of Graham's number, which became famous for its astonishingly large size. Actively participated in the American Mathematical Society and played a significant role in promoting mathematics through several initiatives.

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Ernesto Brambilla

Italian motorcycle and race car driver
Born
January 31st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in motorsport, contributed significantly to both motorcycle racing and car racing disciplines. Competed in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing events during the 1950s, securing multiple wins and establishing a formidable reputation. Transitioned to car racing, participating in Formula One and other significant competitions. Achieved notable success at the 1965 Italian Grand Prix where a strong performance led to a podium finish. His career spanned several years, showcasing versatility across different types of racing.

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Alan Cowley

Chemist who contributed to organometallics
Born
January 29th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 86 years old

A British chemist focused on organometallic chemistry. Played a significant role in the development of new organometallic compounds, particularly in the study of lanthanide and actinide complexes. Contributed to the advancement of methods in synthesis, analysis, and application of organometallic materials in various chemical processes. Published extensively, sharing knowledge with the scientific community and influencing future research in the field.

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David Graeber

American anthropologist and activist
Born
February 12th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 59 years old

An anthropologist specializing in economic anthropology and anarchism. Contributed significantly to the study of social movements and economic systems. Played a key role in the Occupy Wall Street movement and was a prominent figure in anti-globalization activism. Authored several influential books, including 'Debt: The First 5,000 Years', which examined the historical relationship between debt and social relations.

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Hiroh Kikai

Japanese photographer with notable portraits
Born
March 18th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1945, a prominent figure in photography, focused on capturing the essence of human emotions through portraiture. Kikai pursued a career that emphasized the beauty and complexity of the human face, utilizing a large-format camera to produce striking black and white images. Numerous exhibitions showcased the work, including 'Portraits' and 'The Face,' which received critical acclaim. The photography style combined traditional techniques with a contemplative approach, resulting in a significant contribution to contemporary visual art.

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Steve Priest

Singer-songwriter and bass player of Sweet
Born
February 23rd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1948 in England, a musician rose to prominence as the bassist and co-founder of the rock band Sweet. The band gained worldwide recognition in the 1970s with hits blending glam rock and pop music. The catchy single 'Ballroom Blitz' showcased the band's energetic style and stellar performances. The group also produced chart-topping songs like 'Fox on the Run' and 'Love is Like Oxygen,' helping define the glam rock era. Over the years, collaborated with various artists and continued to perform until later in life, contributing to the legacy of the genre.

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Barry Tuckwell

Horn player and music educator
Born
March 5th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent horn player and educator who significantly advanced the status of the French horn. Tuckwell studied at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and gained recognition as a principal horn with several prestigious orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra. He performed as a soloist with noted orchestras around the world and recorded extensively, contributing to the repertoire for the horn. As an educator, he taught at several institutions, influencing generations of musicians through masterclasses and private instruction.

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Tom Coburn

American physician and U.S. Senator
Born
March 14th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 72 years old

A physician served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1995 to 2001 and then in the U.S. Senate from 2005 to 2015. His legislative focus included healthcare reform and fiscal responsibility. Played a significant role in the Senate by emphasizing transparency in government spending and advocating for limited government. Retired from politics after deciding not to seek re-election in 2014. Also known for involvement in various healthcare initiatives throughout his medical career.

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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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