What Happened This Year 2022

People Who Died in 2022

Peter Straub

American author of horror novels
Born
March 2nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
September 4th, 2022 2 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1943, this author and poet gained prominence in the horror genre through a series of acclaimed works. Collaborating with Stephen King, produced the bestselling novel 'The Talisman', which became a staple of contemporary fantasy literature. His other notable works include 'Ghost Story' and 'Shadowland', often praised for their intricate narrative structures and psychological depth. Throughout a prolific writing career, earned multiple awards, reflecting a strong influence on modern horror and supernatural fiction.

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Elizabeth II

Queen of the United Kingdom
Born
April 21st, 1926 98 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2022 2 years ago — 96 years old

Reigned as monarch from 1952 until 2022, becoming the longest-serving British monarch. Oversaw significant changes in British society, including decolonization and the modernization of the monarchy. Maintained a ceremonial role while supporting the government and engaging in diplomatic relations worldwide. Engaged in numerous state visits and hosted heads of state throughout her reign.

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Javier Marías

Spanish author and journalist
Born
September 20th, 1951 73 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2022 2 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent Spanish author and journalist contributed significantly to contemporary literature and cultural commentary. His novels, particularly 'A Heart So White' and 'The Infatuations', garnered critical acclaim and explored themes of memory, love, and existential questions. Additionally, worked as a translator and professor, influencing many through academic circles. Writings appeared in various esteemed publications, providing insights on literature and society. Held the position of director at the Spanish cultural institution 'Instituto Cervantes' in New York.

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John W. O'Malley

American Catholic historian and Jesuit priest
Born
June 11th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2022 2 years ago — 95 years old

Born in 1927, an American historian and professor, focused on Catholic history and the Jesuit order. Authored multiple influential books that explored the history of the Catholic Church, including 'A History of the Popes' and 'The First Jesuits'. Served as a professor at Georgetown University and the Weston Jesuit School of Theology, focusing on the intersections of history and theology.

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Jean-Luc Godard

Film director of Breathless and Alphaville
Born
December 3rd, 1930 94 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2022 2 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in the French New Wave cinema, played a crucial role in transforming film language and narrative structure during the late 1950s and 1960s. As a director and screenwriter, produced influential works that examined social and political themes. Launched a cinematic revolution with the feature film 'Breathless', which displayed innovative techniques such as jump cuts and a fragmented narrative. Additionally, directed 'Alphaville', an iconic science fiction film that combined genre elements with philosophical ideas, contributing to the evolution of art cinema.

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Maarten Schmidt

Dutch astronomer and quasars researcher
Born
December 28th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2022 2 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, especially in the study of quasars. Discovered that quasars are powered by supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies and provided evidence of their redshift being related to distance, which supported the expanding universe theory. Conducted extensive research on the nature and properties of these distant astronomical objects. Schmidt's work provided crucial insights into the early universe and how galaxies evolve over time.

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Raju Srivastav

Indian comedian and actor
Born
1963 62 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2022 2 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent figure in Indian comedy, contributed to the entertainment industry through stand-up performances and acting. Gained recognition as a contestant on the reality show 'Bigg Boss' and for roles in comedy shows such as 'The Great Indian Laughter Challenge.' In addition to comedy, ventured into politics, serving as a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party. Played a significant role in popularizing stand-up comedy in India.

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Hilary Mantel

Author of 'Wolf Hall' series
Born
July 6th, 1952 72 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 2022 2 years ago — 70 years old

An English author and critic, gained prominence through historical novels. The 'Wolf Hall' trilogy, which includes 'Wolf Hall', 'Bring Up the Bodies', and 'The Mirror and the Light', portrayed the life of Thomas Cromwell in the Tudor court. Received numerous awards for literary work, including the Booker Prize twice, for 'Wolf Hall' in 2009 and 'Bring Up the Bodies' in 2012. Also published memoirs and essays, exploring various subjects.

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Pharoah Sanders

American jazz saxophonist and bandleader
Born
October 13th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
September 24th, 2022 2 years ago — 81 years old

Saxophonist and bandleader contributed significantly to the avant-garde jazz movement. Began career in 1960s, collaborating with artists such as John Coltrane and being part of Coltrane's late ensembles. Developed a distinctive sound characterized by spiritual and free jazz. Released several acclaimed albums, including 'Karma' in 1969 and 'Black Unity' in 1971. His music blended diverse influences and transcended traditional jazz styles. Engaged audiences with emotive performances and innovative compositions throughout the decades.

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