What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Harry Reid

American politician and senator
Born
December 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2021 4 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Nevada from 1987 to 2017. Held the position of Senate Majority Leader from 2007 to 2015. Managed significant legislative initiatives and played a critical role in healthcare reform and energy policy. Prior to the Senate, served as the 25th Lieutenant Governor of Nevada from 1971 to 1975 and was a member of the Nevada Assembly. Focused on issues pertinent to the state and national interests throughout Congressional career.

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Betty White

Actress and television personality
Born
January 17th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2021 4 years ago — 99 years old

An American actress, game show panelist, and television personality, played significant roles in television history. Best known for appearances on 'The Golden Girls' and 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. Her career spanned decades, with work in various formats including sitcoms, documentaries, and game shows. In addition to entertainment, engaged in animal rights activism, advocating for animal welfare causes throughout life.

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Toko Shinoda

Japanese abstract artist and printmaker
Born
March 28th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 108 years old

An artist, primarily associated with abstract painting and printmaking, developed a unique style merging traditional Japanese techniques with contemporary forms. Born in Japan, studied in various institutions, including the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music. Relocated to the United States in the 1950s, which influenced her artistic perspective. Exhibited works in numerous galleries and museums, gaining recognition for blending ink and brushwork with modern concepts, frequently utilizing paper as a medium. Contributions to art include participation in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics Art Competition, earning the first award in print. Actively engaged in the art community, teaching and mentoring future artists throughout her career.

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Richard Lewontin

Biologist and geneticist, evolutionist
Born
March 29th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 92 years old

Contributions focused on population genetics and evolutionary biology. Worked on the concept of genetic diversity and its implications for evolution. Engaged in the debate on the role of genetics and environment in human behavior. Served as a professor at Harvard University, influencing many students and researchers in the field of biology.

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Kurt Biedenkopf

German politician and academic leader
Born
January 28th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 91 years old

Biedenkopf served as the 54th President of the German Bundesrat from 1991 to 1992. He held various academic positions, significantly contributing to politics and education in Germany. As the Minister-President of Saxony, Biedenkopf played a pivotal role in the state's development after reunification. His tenure was marked by economic reforms and educational initiatives aimed at modernizing the region. He also influenced policy making in post-Cold War Germany through his engagement in political discourse.

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Anerood Jugnauth

Mauritian politician and lawyer
Born
March 29th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician from Mauritius who served as the 4th President and Prime Minister. His political career began in the 1960s, contributing to the country's independence from Britain in 1968. Held the office of Prime Minister multiple times between 1968 and 1995 and again from 2000 to 2003. Elected as President in 2003, served until 2012, focusing on economic development in Mauritius. The alliance with various parties shaped the political landscape of the nation.

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Graeme Edge

Drummer and songwriter for The Moody Blues
Born
March 30th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent drummer and songwriter, contributed significantly to rock music as a founding member of The Moody Blues. Participated in the creation of the band's iconic sound, blending rock with orchestral elements. Played a crucial role in the success of albums such as 'Days of Future Passed' and 'In Search of the Lost Chord'. Delivered spoken-word poetry and lyrics that enriched the band's thematic content, particularly in tracks like 'Nights in White Satin'.

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Doug Falconer

Football player and producer
Born
January 30th, 1952 74 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 69 years old

A Canadian football player and producer, Falconer played as a quarterback in the Canadian Football League (CFL) primarily for the Ottawa Rough Riders. His tenure in the CFL included participation in several Grey Cup championships. After retiring from professional football, he transitioned into a career in production, contributing to various projects in film and television.

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Johnny Crawford

Actor and singer from 'The Rifleman'
Born
March 26th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 75 years old

Began acting at a young age, gaining prominence in the role of Mark McCain on the television series 'The Rifleman'. Also pursued a music career, achieving success as a singer in the 1960s. Displayed talent in various performances, earning recognition in both fields.

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