What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Jorge Sampaio

Politician and 18th President of Portugal
Born
September 18th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the 18th President of Portugal from 1996 to 2006. Prior to presidency, held the position of Mayor of Lisbon from 1990 to 1991. Worked as a lawyer and was involved in political activism during the Portuguese dictatorship. Played a significant role in advocating for democracy and human rights in Portugal and internationally. After presidency, continued to engage in various diplomatic and humanitarian initiatives.

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Del Crandall

Baseball player and manager, Braves
Born
March 5th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 91 years old

Played as a professional baseball catcher primarily for the Milwaukee Braves from 1949 to 1963. After retiring as a player, transitioned into a managerial role in Major League Baseball, overseeing teams such as the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco Giants. Crandall contributed to the game not only through his skills as a player but also through his leadership on the field as a manager.

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Graham McRae

Race car driver; won the 1972 Tasman Series
Born
March 5th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent race car driver from New Zealand, focused on single-seater racing and active during the 1960s and 1970s. Achieved significant success in the Tasman Series, becoming the champion in 1972. Competed in various international motorsport events, including Formula 1 and Can-Am championships. Developed a reputation for skillful racing and technical knowledge, which contributed to the design of competitive race cars. Later participated in the development of racing technology and continued to influence motorsport as an engineer.

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Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Psychologist and Flow Theory developer
Born
September 29th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 87 years old

A Hungarian-American psychologist and academic, focused on the study of happiness and creativity. Developed the concept of 'flow', describing a state of complete immersion in an activity leading to high levels of productivity and satisfaction. Authored the influential book 'Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience', which outlines how people can achieve deep enjoyment and engagement in their lives. Contributed significantly to positive psychology, exploring the factors that contribute to well-being and optimal human functioning.

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John McAfee

Computer Programmer and Founder of McAfee
Born
September 18th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1945, this individual established a major cybersecurity company that became widely used for antivirus software. The company provided protection for personal and commercial computers, becoming a leader in the industry during the late 20th century. Later, involved in cryptocurrency ventures and various entrepreneurial activities, this individual also gained attention for controversial public statements and legal issues. The career included numerous partnerships and projects focused on digital security.

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Carlos Reutemann

Formula One driver and politician
Born
April 12th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent race car driver and politician. Competed in Formula One from 1972 to 1982, securing 12 Grand Prix victories. Achieved second place in the World Championship in 1975. Transitioned to politics, serving as a senator and governor of Santa Fe province. Engaged in various initiatives within the political landscape of Argentina.

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Freddie Redd

Jazz Pianist and Composer, 'Shades of Redd'
Born
May 29th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 93 years old

An American jazz pianist and composer contributed significantly to the jazz scene, particularly in the bebop and hard bop styles. Redd gained attention for the 1960 album 'Shades of Redd', which highlighted his unique composition style and piano skills. In addition to recording, performances at various jazz clubs established a reputation within the jazz community. Collaborations with other prominent musicians enriched the jazz repertoire during a vibrant era for the genre.

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Elgin Baylor

Basketball player and coach, NBA legend
Born
September 16th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 87 years old

A basketball player and coach achieved significant success in the NBA. Played as a forward for the Minneapolis Lakers and later for the Los Angeles Lakers. Excelled during the 1960s, earning 11 All-Star selections and 10 All-NBA First Team honors. Inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1977. After retiring, transitioned to coaching and served as the head coach for the New Orleans Jazz. Additionally held an executive role with the Los Angeles Clippers, contributing to the franchise's development.

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Walter Bernstein

Screenwriter for 'Fail-Safe' and 'The Front'
Born
August 20th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 102 years old

A prolific American screenwriter and producer, earned recognition for contributions to film and television. Wrote screenplays for notable films including 'Fail-Safe,' which addressed Cold War tensions, and 'The Front,' which explored the impact of the Hollywood blacklist. Worked extensively in television, contributing to several series and teleplays, showcasing a commitment to storytelling that highlighted social issues and personal dilemmas. Bernstein's career spanned several decades, with work that reflected the political and cultural landscape of America during the 20th century.

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