What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Hannu Mikkola

Race car driver; 1983 World Rally Champion
Born
May 24th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 79 years old

Competed in rally racing from the 1960s to the 1980s. Best performances in the World Rally Championship included winning the title in 1983, driving for Audi. Contributed to the popularity of the sport with notable achievements in various iconic events. Achieved numerous victories across multiple rallies, showcasing skill and technical ability in driving. His legacy includes significant advancements in rally car technology and driving techniques.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Richard Marcinko

American commander and author of Rogue Warrior
Born
November 21st, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1940, a U.S. Navy commander and author gained recognition for founding SEAL Team Six, a special forces unit designed for counter-terrorism operations. Commanded SEAL Team Two and participated in various missions, including the Vietnam War. After retiring from the Navy, wrote the Rogue Warrior series, which detailed military concepts and personal experiences. His work contributed to a greater understanding of special operations forces and their roles in modern warfare.

Continue Reading

Patrick Juvet

Swiss singer-songwriter and model
Born
August 21st, 1950 74 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 71 years old

Born in Switzerland, a singer-songwriter emerged in the 1970s music scene, gaining recognition for contributions to the pop and disco genres. Released notable albums, including 'Lady of Ice' and 'Où sont les femmes?', which achieved commercial success in Europe. Transitioned from music to modeling, showcasing versatility across creative fields. Maintained a presence in the music industry for decades, influencing future generations.

Continue Reading

Shock G

American rapper and producer of 'Humpty Dance'
Born
August 25th, 1963 61 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 58 years old

An influential American rapper and producer, contributed significantly to the hip-hop scene in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Co-founded the group Digital Underground, which achieved popularity with the hit single 'The Humpty Dance.' The group was known for its innovative blend of funk and hip-hop, introducing a unique style that influenced many artists. Produced tracks for various artists, showcasing versatility and creativity. Developed a persona as Humpty Hump, highlighted with distinctive costumes and humorous performances, adding a theatrical element to live shows.

Continue Reading

Melvin Van Peebles

Influential filmmaker and screenwriter
Born
August 21st, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 89 years old

An American actor, director, and screenwriter. Steered the independent film movement in the 1970s with the film 'Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song', which became a landmark in Black cinema. Worked across multiple forms of media including theater and literature, exploring themes of race and identity. Established a unique style that blended humor and social commentary. Continued to create and influence through various artistic collaborations.

Continue Reading

Hugh Lowther

British politician and 8th Earl of Lonsdale
Born
May 27th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 72 years old

Born into aristocracy, served as the 8th Earl of Lonsdale, actively participated in House of Lords debates, and took part in various social and charitable activities. He represented the interests of the hereditary peerage and engaged in the legacy of his family's estate. His tenure was marked by engagement in local affairs and commitment to community service.

Continue Reading

Claude Callegari

YouTube personality and entertainer
Born
October 19th, 1962 62 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 59 years old

Became a prominent figure on YouTube, specializing in gaming content and commentary. Created a popular channel featuring Let's Play videos, live streams, and entertaining gameplay of various video games. Built a significant following through engaging personality and interactive content. Expanded creative endeavors into other media formats, including collaborations with other YouTubers and platforms.

Continue Reading