What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Kurt Westergaard

Cartoonist, creator of Muhammad cartoons
Born
July 13th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 86 years old

A cartoonist created a series of caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad published in 2005, which sparked international controversy and protests. The cartoons were part of a larger commentary on freedom of expression and artistic license. Throughout the career, focused on political cartoons within Danish media. Faced threats due to the response from various groups regarding the cartoons, leading to personal security challenges and relocation. Continued to advocate for freedom of speech until passing.

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Suzanne Zimmerman

Competition swimmer and Olympic medalist
Born
July 13th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 96 years old

Born in July 1925, this American swimmer specialized in freestyle and backstroke events. Achievements included competing in the 1948 Summer Olympics held in London, where a silver medal was earned in the 100m freestyle. She also participated in the 4x100m freestyle relay, contributing to the team's overall performance. Swimming at the national level prior to the Olympics, strong finishes secured a place in the competitive swimming landscape.

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Christa Stubnick

German sprinter, Olympic competitor
Born
December 12th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 88 years old

Competitor in sprinting events during the 1950s and 1960s. Participated in the 1960 Rome Olympics, achieving notable rankings in sprinting disciplines. Achieved success in various national championships and contributed to the development of women's sprinting in Germany.

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Jacques Tits

Mathematician known for group theory
Born
August 12th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 91 years old

An influential mathematician worked primarily in the areas of algebra and geometry. Developed Tits buildings and contributed to group theory, establishing connections between mathematical structures. Published numerous papers and remains a pivotal figure in the mathematical community. Held academic positions at various institutions and served as a professor at the Collège de France.

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Austin Currie

Northern Irish lawyer and SDLP politician
Born
October 11th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1939, a prominent figure in Northern Irish politics, focused on civil rights and social justice. Played a key role in the founding of the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) in 1970, advocating for the rights of Irish nationalists. Served as a Member of Parliament for the Fermanagh and South Tyrone constituency from 1974 to 1979. Actively participated in numerous campaigns for equality and reconciliation in Northern Ireland, contributing to the peace process.

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Karan Armstrong

American soprano and actress
Born
December 14th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 80 years old

Accomplished as a soprano and actress, significant contributions were made to opera and musical theater. Performed leading roles in prominent operas and was celebrated for performances in productions such as 'Ariadne auf Naxos' and 'Carmen'. Participated in renowned music festivals and collaborated with prestigious orchestras throughout the career.

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Gianluigi Gelmetti

Italian composer and conductor
Born
September 11th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in classical music, contributed extensively to the operatic and symphonic repertoire. Held the position of principal conductor at several prestigious orchestras, including the Stuttgart Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Mozarteum Orchestra in Salzburg. Gelmetti had a significant focus on 20th-century compositions and reinterpreted works by renowned composers such as Verdi and Puccini. Conducted numerous acclaimed performances across Europe and the United States, earning a reputation for distinctive interpretations and a deep understanding of the musical material.

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Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu

Zulu King and traditional leader
Born
July 14th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 73 years old

Ascended to the throne of the Zulu nation in 1971. Played a vital role in the cultural preservation and promotion of Zulu traditions. Engaged with various political leaders during the transition from apartheid to democracy in South Africa. Kept the Zulu language and customs alive amid modernization. Also focused on issues such as rural development and health within the Zulu community.

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George P. Shultz

Economist, 60th Secretary of State
Born
December 13th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 101 years old

An influential American economist and politician, served as the 60th United States Secretary of State from 1982 to 1989 under President Ronald Reagan. Prior to this role, held positions such as Secretary of Labor and Secretary of the Treasury. Played a significant role in U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War, notably in arms control negotiations with the Soviet Union. Engaged in various economic policies and strategic discussions that shaped the international landscape during the 1980s.

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