What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Frank McCabe

American basketball player, NBA champion
Born
June 30th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 94 years old

Played professional basketball in the National Basketball Association. Contributed to the success of the New York Knicks during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Achieved a championship title with the Knicks in 1970. His career in basketball spanned several seasons, highlighting skill and teamwork on the court.

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Marshall Sahlins

Anthropologist and academic, Stone Age Economics
Born
December 27th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 91 years old

An American anthropologist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of anthropology through various theoretical frameworks. Focused on kinship, culture, and economic anthropology. Served as a professor at the University of Chicago, shaping the study of hunter-gatherer societies and constructing theories around culture's role in human behavior. Authored several pivotal works that challenged prevailing economic paradigms, with 'Stone Age Economics' being a key publication. Engaged with the intersection of anthropology and history, exploring the implications of cultural specificities in social practices.

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Tim Bogert

American singer and bass player, Cactus
Born
August 27th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 77 years old

A bass player and singer, contributed significantly to the rock genre during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Formed the band Cactus, which gained attention for its energetic performances and blues-influenced hard rock sound. Also collaborated with other musicians and bands, showcasing skills in various genres, including jazz and fusion. His work with Vanilla Fudge demonstrated innovative approaches to music, particularly in arrangements and production techniques.

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Joe Cunningham

American baseball player and coach
Born
August 27th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 90 years old

An accomplished baseball player and coach, this individual played primarily as an outfielder in Major League Baseball during the 1950s and 1960s. Notably played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago White Sox. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, contributing to the development of future athletes in the sport.

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Gerry Marsden

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, 'Ferry Cross the Mersey'
Born
September 24th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in the music scene, contributed significantly to the Merseybeat movement in the early 1960s. Led the band Gerry and the Pacemakers, achieving widespread success with hits such as 'Ferry Cross the Mersey' and 'You'll Never Walk Alone'. The latter became an anthem for Liverpool Football Club. The band's energetic performances and melodic songs were crucial in establishing the British Invasion in the United States. Continued to perform throughout his life, gaining recognition for his enduring musical contributions.

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Yuan Longping

Hybrid Rice Scientist and Developer
Born
September 7th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 91 years old

An academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, this individual specialized in hybrid rice research. Significant contributions include the development of the world’s first hybrid rice varieties, which greatly increased global rice production. Research focused on improving crop yields and combating food scarcity. Helped enhance food security, particularly in Asia, through innovative agricultural practices.

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Charles Geschke

Co-founder of Adobe Systems
Born
September 11th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 82 years old

Co-founded Adobe Systems in 1982, which became a leader in software development, particularly known for products like Adobe Acrobat and Photoshop. Helped develop the PostScript page description language, which revolutionized desktop publishing and printing. Oversaw the company's growth into a major force in digital media and creativity software. Served as president of Adobe Systems and contributed to the software community through various initiatives and leadership roles.

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bell hooks

American author and feminist theorist
Born
September 25th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 69 years old

An influential cultural critic, theorist, and author, she focused on the intersectionality of race, capitalism, and gender. Published over 30 books, including 'Ain't I a Woman? Black Women and Feminism' and 'All About Love: New Visions'. Contributed to feminist thought and discourse, emphasizing the importance of love in politics and personal interactions. Founded the Glen Ellen bottling company, offering transformative educational experiences through a unique approach to teaching.

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John McAfee

Computer Programmer and Founder of McAfee
Born
September 18th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2021 5 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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