What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Carlos Romero Barceló

Politician and 5th Governor of Puerto Rico
Born
September 4th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1932, served as the 5th Governor of Puerto Rico from 1977 to 1985. Played a significant role in local politics and governance. Worked as a lawyer and held various governmental positions prior to the governorship. Advocated for Puerto Rican statehood and developed economic policies during tenure.

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Marjorie Tallchief

Ballerina and soloist with NYC Ballet
Born
October 19th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent ballerina, one of the first American dancers to gain international acclaim. Studied at the School of American Ballet and joined the New York City Ballet, where performed leading roles in works by George Balanchine. Regarded as a pioneer of ballet in the United States, played a crucial role in making ballet a popular art form. Later performed with various international ballet companies and contributed to the art through teaching and choreography.

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Don Demeter

Professional Baseball Player, All-Star
Born
June 25th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 86 years old

Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1956 and played for teams including the Detroit Tigers and Philadelphia Phillies. Made his mark as an outfielder, achieving All-Star status in 1962. Helped lead the Phillies to the National League pennant in 1964. Retired with notable statistics, contributing significantly to the teams he represented during his career.

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Eric Carle

Children's author and illustrator
Born
June 25th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 92 years old

An author and illustrator created beloved children's books characterized by collage techniques and vibrant colors. Best recognized for 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar,' which has sold millions of copies worldwide. Worked on various titles that infuse themes of nature and education. Established a unique artistic style that influenced children's literature.

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Austin Mitchell

English journalist and politician
Born
September 19th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1934 in England, a noted journalist and politician emerged as a prominent figure in media and public service. Worked as a journalist for various publications, contributing to discussions on social and economic issues. Served as a Member of Parliament for Grimsby from 1974 to 2015, participating in significant legislative matters and representing local interests. Engaged in academia, holding positions that influenced young minds and public opinion.

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Jill Murphy

Children's author of 'Worst Witch' series
Born
July 5th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 72 years old

A British children's author, recognized for creating the 'Worst Witch' series, which features the adventures of a young witch named Mildred Hubble. Published first in 1974, the series gained popularity and was adapted into various formats, including television shows and stage productions. Additionally, authored numerous other children's books, such as 'Box of Bangles' and 'The Large Family' series, contributing significantly to children's literature. Received multiple awards and accolades during her career, solidifying a place in British literary history.

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Aris Poulianos

Greek anthropologist and archaeologist
Born
July 24th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 97 years old

Born in 1924, an influential anthropologist and archaeologist focused on prehistoric Greece. Conducted excavations at the cave of Petralona, which yielded significant findings including remains of early hominids. Worked extensively on the study of the origins of prehistoric man in Greece, contributing to the understanding of human evolution in the region. Published numerous works on anthropology and archaeology.

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Edita Gruberová

Slovak soprano and acclaimed opera singer
Born
December 23rd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1946, this Slovak soprano gained prominence in the operatic world, particularly in the roles of the lyrical soprano repertoire. Studied at the Academy of Performing Arts in Bratislava, this artist debuted at the Slovak National Theatre, soon garnering attention in international opera houses. A frequent performer at the Vienna State Opera, this soprano achieved acclaim for portrayals in operas such as 'Don Giovanni' and 'Lucia di Lammermoor'. Over a notable career spanning several decades, this artist also appeared in concert settings, showcasing a wide-ranging repertoire. This soprano's unique vocal quality and interpretative skills earned her recognition as one of the leading sopranos in the 20th century.

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Robert Labine

Canadian politician and leader
Born
December 23rd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 81 years old

A Canadian politician served in the National Assembly of Quebec from 1976 to 1994. Labine represented the riding of La Prairie as a member of the Parti Québécois. He held various roles within the provincial government, including Minister of Transportation. Labine was instrumental in advancing transportation policies and infrastructure development in Quebec. After leaving politics, he continued to be active in regional development initiatives.

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