What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Dorothy Manley

English sprinter and Olympic competitor
Born
April 29th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 94 years old

Competitor in sprint events, achieved significant success in the 1940s. Represented Great Britain at the 1948 Summer Olympics in London, where sprint events garnered attention. Specialization in the 100 meters and 200 meters distances led to several championship participations, including the European Athletics Championships.

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Alvin Lucier

Composer known for 'I Am Sitting in a Room'
Born
May 14th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent composer and academic, contributed significantly to the field of experimental music. Received an A.B. from the University of New Hampshire and studied at Brandeis University. Developed a unique style that often incorporated speech and sound, aiming to explore the relationship between music and the physical environment. Created works that investigated sound and its perceptual implications. Taught at multiple institutions, sharing knowledge with emerging musicians and composers.

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Leon Spinks

Boxer and former heavyweight champion
Born
July 11th, 1953 71 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1953, this American boxer achieved prominence in the heavyweight division. In 1978, claimed the WBC heavyweight title after defeating Muhammad Ali in a split decision. Spinks also participated in the Olympics, winning a gold medal in boxing at the 1976 Games in Montreal. Competed in the ring until the early 1990s, facing various opponents and generating excitement in the sport. His career included fights against notable boxers, contributing to his legacy in boxing history.

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Isaak Khalatnikov

Theoretical Physicist and Academician
Born
October 17th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 102 years old

Born in 1919, a theoretical physicist made significant contributions to the fields of quantum field theory and cosmology. Developed the theory of gravitational waves and contributed to the understanding of the early universe. Held academic positions at various institutions in Russia, influencing generations of physicists. Authored numerous papers that advanced the field of theoretical physics.

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Tom T. Hall

Singer-Songwriter with 'Harper Valley PTA'
Born
May 25th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1936, a prominent American singer-songwriter and guitarist. Gained fame in the country music genre, particularly in the 1970s. Achievements include numerous chart-topping hits that showcased storytelling and traditional country themes. Distinguished himself with a unique writing style and heartfelt lyrics throughout a prolific career. Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2008, reflecting a lasting legacy in American music.

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Kimera Bartee

Baseball player, Detroit Tigers outfielder
Born
July 21st, 1972 52 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 49 years old

A professional baseball player, played in Major League Baseball from 1996 to 2001. Debuted with the Detroit Tigers and also played for the Cincinnati Reds and the New York Mets. Primarily an outfielder, contributed to various teams with fielding skills and batting ability. Completed a collegiate career at the University of Nebraska before being drafted by the Tigers.

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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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