What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

William S. Sessions

FBI Director and civil servant
Born
May 27th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the 8th Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation from 1987 to 1993. Oversaw various high-profile investigations during a critical era in U.S. law enforcement. Appointed a federal judge prior to his tenure at the FBI, contributing to the judiciary for over a decade. Implemented significant reforms within the FBI to enhance its operational effectiveness and community relations.

Continue Reading

Paolo Rossi

Italian footballer and World Cup champion
Born
September 23rd, 1956 68 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 64 years old

A prolific footballer, played as a forward. Gained prominence during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Achieved international recognition during the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain, where he led Italy to victory. Scored six goals in the tournament, including a crucial hat-trick against Brazil in the quarter-finals. Played for clubs such as Vicenza, Juventus, and Milan, contributing to domestic and international successes. His achievements earned him the FIFA World Cup Golden Boot as the tournament's top scorer and the Ballon d'Or in 1982.

Continue Reading

Adrianus Johannes Simonis

Dutch Cardinal and Church Leader
Born
November 26th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a prominent figure in the Roman Catholic Church, holding the title of Archbishop of Utrecht from 1983 to 2006. Participated in the Second Vatican Council and was a key voice on various theological issues. Elevated to cardinal in 1985, Simonis contributed significantly to the discussions surrounding church reform and social issues within the community. Advocated for the pro-life movement and addressed pastoral care for the marginalized. His tenure was marked by a focus on catechesis and promoting church teachings.

Continue Reading

Tony Fernández

Dominican baseball player and shortstop
Born
June 30th, 1962 62 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 58 years old

Played Major League Baseball primarily as a shortstop. Career spanned from 1983 to 2001, with significant tenures at the Toronto Blue Jays and the New York Mets. Contributed to the Blue Jays' first World Series championship in 1992. Also played for teams including the San Diego Padres and the Cincinnati Reds. Noted for exceptional defensive skills and consistency at the plate.

Continue Reading

Per Olov Enquist

Swedish author and playwright, The Visit
Born
September 23rd, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in Swedish literature, engaged in journalism and theater. Developed a significant body of work that includes novels, essays, and plays. Explored themes of love, betrayal, and politics throughout his writing. Gained critical acclaim for the play 'The Visit' which reflects on human nature and social dilemmas. Worked as a journalist for Swedish newspapers while producing literary works that garnered attention beyond Sweden. His writing style combined poetic elements with sharp social commentary, earning a place among notable Swedish authors.

Continue Reading

Shirley Ann Grau

American novelist and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
July 28th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 91 years old

An American novelist and short story writer, recognized for exploring complex themes within Southern life and culture. Grau published multiple novels and collections, with notable works including 'The Keepers of the House' and 'Roadwalkers.' She received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1965 for 'The Keepers of the House,' which delves into the legacy of a Southern family. Her writing often reflects the intricacies of personal relationships and the landscape of the South.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading