What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Albert Bustamante

American soldier and politician
Born
April 8th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 86 years old

Served in the United States Army and achieved the rank of Major. Transitioned to a political career, representing Texas's 23rd congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1985 to 1991. Focused on education and veteran affairs during tenure. Contributed to various legislative initiatives that supported education funding and military veterans.

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Jill Murphy

Children's author of 'Worst Witch' series
Born
July 5th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2021 4 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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Carlos Romero Barceló

Politician and 5th Governor of Puerto Rico
Born
September 4th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2021 4 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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Chuck Close

Painter and photographer specializing in realism
Born
July 5th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 81 years old

An American painter and photographer, this individual gained recognition for large-scale, photo-based portraits. The work often featured a grid technique, allowing for meticulous detail and realism. Suffered a spinal artery collapse in 1988, resulting in paralysis, which led to the use of innovative methods to create art. Continued to produce significant works despite physical limitations, showing resilience and creativity in artistic expression.

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Julio Miranda

Argentine politician and public servant
Born
October 17th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1946, served as a prominent figure in Argentine politics. Held various significant political positions throughout a lengthy career. Engaged in legislative processes while representing interests of constituents. Played a critical role in shaping local and national policies. Embarked on initiatives aimed at economic improvement and social welfare during tenure in office. Contributed to political discourse and development within the country.

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Graham Vick

Theatre director of acclaimed opera productions
Born
December 30th, 1953 71 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent theatre director, focused primarily on opera. Founded the Birmingham Opera Company in 1987, which became known for innovative productions. Directed various operas worldwide, including works by composers such as Verdi, Mozart, and Stravinsky. Recognized for a unique approach to staging and for collaborating with leading international artists. Received several awards for contributions to the field of opera and theatre.

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Edward Cassidy

Roman Catholic Cardinal Priest
Born
July 5th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 97 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1950, a prominent figure in the Australian Roman Catholic Church. Served as an auxiliary bishop in Sydney before becoming the Archbishop of Hobart. Contributed to various Vatican congregations and played a significant role in international Church relations. Elevated to the cardinalate in 2001, he represented Australia at several key ecclesiastical events, including the Synod of Bishops. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and was involved in the preparation for the World Youth Day events.

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Verónica Forqué

Spanish actress in film and television
Born
December 1st, 1955 69 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 66 years old

An acclaimed Spanish actress began her career in the late 1970s. Notably starred in films directed by Pedro Almodóvar, including 'What Have I Done to Deserve This?' and 'High Heels'. Achieved recognition for performances in Spanish television series, appearing in productions such as 'La Storia D'Amore' and 'El Bump'. Received multiple awards throughout her career, including four Goyas, Spain's top film awards. Her contributions to cinema positioned her as a prominent figure in the Spanish film industry.

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Almudena Grandes

Spanish author with acclaimed novels
Born
May 7th, 1960 64 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 61 years old

An author whose literary career spanned several decades, notable for contributions to contemporary Spanish literature. Grandes published numerous novels, essays, and short stories. The 'Episodios de una Guerra Interminable' series, a historical narrative about the Spanish Civil War and its aftermath, received critical acclaim. Her capacity to interweave personal stories with significant historical events added depth to her narratives. Works often explored themes of memory, identity, and social justice, reflecting on the complexities of Spanish history.

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