What Happened This Year 2020
People Who Died in 2020
John Thompson
A prominent basketball player and coach, this individual played for the Boston Celtics in the early 1960s before gaining fame as the head coach at Georgetown University. Coached the Georgetown Hoyas from 1972 to 1999, leading the team to significant successes, including a National Championship in 1984. Transitioned to a career in sportscasting after retiring from coaching, contributing insights and analysis on basketball networks. Recognized for efforts to advocate for equity and access in sports, particularly for underprivileged youth.
Continue ReadingShere Hite
A sexologist, author, and educator contributed significantly to the understanding of human sexuality. Best known for 'The Hite Report', which presented women's sexual experiences and attitudes, the publication challenged conventional views on female sexuality. Besides 'The Hite Report', further works included 'The Hite Report on Male Sexuality' and 'Women and Love'. The insights offered by these writings sparked widespread discussion and influenced sexual education.
Continue ReadingAnthony Lester
Baron Lester of Herne Hill served as a prominent English lawyer and politician. He was appointed as a Queen's Counsel in 1976 and was a member of the House of Lords from 1993, playing a significant role in various legal reforms. Lester advocated for civil liberties, focusing on anti-discrimination legislation and privacy rights throughout his career. He introduced the Sexual Orientation Regulations in 2003, which aimed to protect individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation. In 2010, Lester contributed to the coalition government’s plans to reform the House of Lords and strengthen its democratic accountability.
Continue ReadingHosni Mubarak
Served as the fourth President of Egypt from 1981 to 2011. Attended military academy and rose through the ranks of the Egyptian Air Force, eventually leading it as air marshal. Oversaw significant economic reforms and maintained peace with Israel through the Camp David Accords. Presided over Egypt during various regional conflicts and uprisings, notably during the Arab Spring. Resigned amidst public protests against his rule and faced legal proceedings following his departure from office.
Continue ReadingHau Pei-tsun
Held the position of 13th Premier of the Republic of China from 1989 to 1990. Played a significant role in the Taiwanese government during a period of political transition. Previously served as the Minister of National Defense, focusing on military modernization and defense strategies. His tenure in public service included active involvement in shaping defense policies amidst regional tensions.
Continue ReadingAin Kaalep
Born in Estonia, contributed significantly to Estonian literature as a poet, playwright, and critic. Engaged in writing throughout various literary movements, producing influential works that explored themes of national identity and personal reflection. Worked extensively within the cultural landscape of Estonia, promoting literature and theater during and after the Soviet era.
Continue ReadingBob Armstrong
Acclaimed in professional wrestling, earned recognition from his performances in the National Wrestling Alliance from the 1960s through the 1990s. Played pivotal roles in wrestling promotions, participating in various matches across the United States. Also worked as a trainer, mentoring numerous wrestlers who made significant careers in the sport. His work with the Georgia Championship Wrestling solidified a legacy in the industry, influencing generations of wrestlers. Received accolades for outstanding contributions that spanned decades.
Continue ReadingArmen Dzhigarkhanyan
A prominent actor and director in Soviet and Armenian cinema, he gained widespread recognition through roles in both film and theater. An alumnus of the Yerevan State Institute of Theatre and Cinematography, he made significant contributions to the performing arts in the Soviet Union. An impactful figure in the Armenian cultural scene, he became the founder of the Dzhigarkhanyan Theater in Yerevan, which showcased numerous productions. His portrayal in the film 'Mimino' and his work in various melodramas solidified his legacy. He appeared in over 70 films and became a cultural icon, especially in the post-Soviet period.
Continue ReadingAlison Lurie
An American author and academic, distinguished in the fields of literature and education. Authored several acclaimed novels and scholarly works, with a significant contribution to the understanding of contemporary American culture and society. 'Foreign Affairs' won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1985, showcasing the complexities of love and relationships among intellectuals. As a professor, offered insights into literature, particularly in the realm of modern fiction, impacting generations of students. Engaged in writing criticism and essays, further illustrating themes of social observation and human behavior.
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