What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Jack Steinberger

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 25th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 99 years old

Contributed significantly to particle physics as an academic and researcher. Played a key role in the discovery of the muon neutrino in experiments conducted at CERN. His work on weak interactions in particle physics has been highly influential in the field. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1988, sharing the honor with two other physicists for contributions to the understanding of the structure of matter.

Continue Reading

Philip Warren Anderson

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 13th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent physicist, contributed to condensed matter physics and played a crucial role in the development of the theory of localization. His research addressed disordered systems and introduced methods for understanding various phenomena in solid-state physics. Published extensively in scientific journals, influencing future research in the field. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1977 for contributions to the understanding of the electronic structure of magnetic and disordered systems. Affiliated with institutions such as Princeton University throughout an extensive academic career.

Continue Reading

Bhakti Charu Swami

Indian religious leader and author
Born
September 17th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent leader within the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), served as a senior disciple of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Played a significant role in promoting Krishna consciousness worldwide, especially in India and the West. Wrote several books on spiritual philosophy, including commentaries on the Bhagavad-gita and the Srimad Bhagavatam. Engaged in numerous community services and outreach programs to spread the teachings of Krishna.

Continue Reading

Chetan Chauhan

Indian cricketer and politician
Born
July 21st, 1947 77 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 73 years old

An accomplished cricketer and politician, contributed significantly to Indian cricket before transitioning to a political career. Played as an opening batsman for the national team during the 1970s and 1980s, participating in 40 Test matches from 1969 to 1986. Scored over 2,000 runs in Test cricket. After retiring from cricket, engaged in politics, serving as a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Held various administrative positions, including Minister of State for Education in the Government of Uttar Pradesh.

Continue Reading

John Baldessari

American painter and conceptual artist
Born
June 17th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent figure in conceptual art, created works that combined images and text, challenging traditional notions of art. Developed a unique style incorporating photography, painting, and installation. Notable pieces include the series 'Cremation Project' and 'I Will Not Make Any More Boring Art', which illustrated a departure from conventional aesthetics. Contributions to art education were significant, with teaching stints at various institutions.

Continue Reading

Jānis Lūsis

Javelin thrower and coach, Olympic medalist
Born
May 19th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent javelin thrower and coach, competed internationally from the 1950s to the early 1970s. Achieved significant success in major athletic competitions, including the Olympics. Later transitioned to coaching, guiding aspiring athletes in the sport. Lūsis contributed to the development of javelin throwing techniques and training methodologies in Latvia.

Continue Reading

Road Warrior Animal

Professional wrestler and tag team champion
Born
September 12th, 1960 64 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 60 years old

A professional wrestler achieved prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. Gained fame as part of the tag team The Road Warriors alongside partner Hawk. The duo showcased a powerful and intimidating style, becoming one of the most recognized teams in wrestling history. Competed in various promotions including WWE and NWA. Won multiple tag team championships, establishing a legacy in professional wrestling. Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2011, reflecting contributions to the sport and its popularity.

Continue Reading

Norbert Blüm

German politician and Minister of Labour
Born
July 21st, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent figure in German politics, contributed significantly to the social and economic landscape during tenure as Minister of Labour and Social Affairs from 1982 to 1998. Played a crucial role in the development of social security laws and labor market reforms. Represented the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and was involved in various initiatives focused on employment, pensions, and social justice. Served in the Bundestag and was influential in shaping policy debates during the reunification of Germany.

Continue Reading

Beverly Pepper

Sculptor and painter, outdoor art installations
Born
December 20th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 98 years old

An American sculptor and painter, created large-scale outdoor sculptures and installations. Worked extensively with materials like steel, concrete, and stone. Became a significant figure in the public art movement, with many works installed across the United States and abroad. Developed a unique style that blends abstract forms with organic influences. Received numerous awards throughout the career, contributing to the discourse on contemporary sculpture.

Continue Reading