What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Volodymyr Holubnychy

Ukrainian race walker and Olympian
Born
June 2nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 85 years old

The athlete specialized in race walking, competing at the international level. Achievements include participation in the 1960 Rome Olympics, where an Olympic performance was showcased. Multiple national championships were won, contributing to the advancement of race walking in Ukraine.

Continue Reading

Shunsuke Kikuchi

Japanese composer of anime music
Born
November 1st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent Japanese composer, notable for contributions to the music of numerous anime series and films. Gained recognition for work on 'Dragon Ball', 'Doraemon', and 'Gundam', helping to shape the soundtracks of these beloved franchises. Employed a range of musical styles, integrating orchestral and pop elements, which resonated with audiences. Expanded the scope of anime music, influencing future composers in the industry. Received various awards for contributions to Japanese music, solidifying a lasting legacy.

Continue Reading

Sylvano Bussotti

Italian composer and avant-garde musician
Born
October 1st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Italy, this composer and avant-garde musician gained recognition for contributions to contemporary classical music. Studied at the Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi in Milan and became influential in the post-war avant-garde movement. Created innovative works that often merged music with visual art, emphasizing unconventional notation techniques. Collaborated with various artists and ensembles throughout a prolific career, showcasing a dedication to experimental forms and theatricality in performance. The oeuvre includes operas, orchestral works, and chamber music that reflect a distinctive personal style.

Continue Reading

Yuan Longping

Hybrid Rice Scientist and Developer
Born
September 7th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 91 years old

An academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, this individual specialized in hybrid rice research. Significant contributions include the development of the world’s first hybrid rice varieties, which greatly increased global rice production. Research focused on improving crop yields and combating food scarcity. Helped enhance food security, particularly in Asia, through innovative agricultural practices.

Continue Reading

Romano Fogli

Italian footballer and World Cup champion
Born
January 21st, 1938 88 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 83 years old

Played as a defender in professional football, primarily for Bologna F.C. during the 1960s. Contributed to Bologna’s success in Serie A, winning the Italian championship. Represented Italy in international competitions, participating in the 1966 FIFA World Cup. Achieved notable recognition for being part of the Italian national team that won the 1968 UEFA European Championship.

Continue Reading

Charles Geschke

Co-founder of Adobe Systems
Born
September 11th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 82 years old

Co-founded Adobe Systems in 1982, which became a leader in software development, particularly known for products like Adobe Acrobat and Photoshop. Helped develop the PostScript page description language, which revolutionized desktop publishing and printing. Oversaw the company's growth into a major force in digital media and creativity software. Served as president of Adobe Systems and contributed to the software community through various initiatives and leadership roles.

Continue Reading

Andrzej Schinzel

Polish mathematician and number theorist
Born
April 5th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Poland, significant contributions in number theory and combinatorial number theory. Served as a professor at various universities, including the University of Warsaw and the Polish Academy of Sciences. Developed multiple conjectures and theorems, influencing future research in prime numbers and polynomials. Authored numerous papers and participated in international mathematical conferences, contributing to advancements in the field.

Continue Reading

bell hooks

American author and feminist theorist
Born
September 25th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 69 years old

An influential cultural critic, theorist, and author, she focused on the intersectionality of race, capitalism, and gender. Published over 30 books, including 'Ain't I a Woman? Black Women and Feminism' and 'All About Love: New Visions'. Contributed to feminist thought and discourse, emphasizing the importance of love in politics and personal interactions. Founded the Glen Ellen bottling company, offering transformative educational experiences through a unique approach to teaching.

Continue Reading

Eduardo Martínez Somalo

Spanish cardinal and church official
Born
March 31st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 94 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1953, served in various roles within the Catholic Church, including positions in the Vatican. Appointed as the Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in 1998, overseeing the procedures for canonization. Participated in several papal conclaves, contributing to the selection of popes.

Continue Reading