What Happened This Year 2023
People Who Died in 2023
James G. Watt
Served as the 43rd United States Secretary of the Interior from 1981 to 1983. Played a significant role in environmental policy and land management during the Reagan administration. Focused on energy production and deregulation, advocating for increased access to federal lands for resource extraction. Oversaw controversial policies regarding national parks and wildlife management, leading to significant public debate. Resigned amid political controversies and criticism of management practices and policies.
Continue ReadingJuraj Jakubisko
A prominent Slovak director and screenwriter, contributions to film included works that explored themes of Slovak identity and history. Early works gained recognition in the 1960s with a distinctive visual style and narrative techniques. Established a notable career within the Czechoslovak New Wave movement. Later films gained international acclaim and featured rich, metaphorical storytelling. Received multiple awards throughout a prolific career, including the prestigious Milan Rastislav Šufflay Award.
Continue ReadingMary L. Cleave
An engineer and astronaut participated in two Space Shuttle missions, STS-61-B in 1985 and STS-30 in 1989. These missions contributed to satellite deployment and the launch of important scientific instruments. In her engineering career, worked at NASA, focusing on environmental engineering and spacecraft design, and held various positions, including serving as a Deputy Director for the Earth Science Division. Cleave's work has been influential in both aerospace engineering and environmental protection.
Continue ReadingOwen Davidson
Achieved success as a professional tennis player, particularly in mixed doubles. Competed in the Grand Slam tournaments during the 1960s and 1970s. Won the Wimbledon mixed doubles title in 1967 and the US Open mixed doubles title in 1968. Also reached the singles quarterfinals at the Australian Open. Represented Australia in the Davis Cup, contributing to the team's victories.
Continue ReadingGayle Hunnicutt
An American actress with a career spanning several decades. Hunnicutt gained recognition for roles in various television series and films during the 1960s and 1970s. Her performances in 'The Way We Were' and 'The Omega Man' contributed to her prominence in the entertainment industry. In addition to film, Hunnicutt appeared in popular television shows, showcasing her talent in different genres. Her work included guest appearances in notable series, illustrating her versatility as an actress.
Continue ReadingHerb Kohl
A businessman and politician from Wisconsin served in the U.S. Senate from 1989 to 2013. Prior to entering politics, founded a successful retail business, Kohl's Food Stores, which significantly contributed to the local economy. During Senate tenure, focused on issues such as education, health care, and economic development. Played a vital role in securing federal funding for various projects in Wisconsin. After retiring from the Senate, continued philanthropy through the Kohl's philanthropic efforts.
Continue ReadingDelma S. Arrigoitia
A prominent historian and educator from Puerto Rico, this individual specialized in the history and culture of Puerto Rican communities in the United States. As an author, contributions include works that explore the socio-political landscape of Puerto Rican identity, particularly amidst diaspora experiences. In the legal field, served as an advocate for civil rights and social justice, holding various influential positions. Active in academia, played a critical role in advancing the study of Puerto Rican history at educational institutions.
Continue ReadingBingo Smith
Professional basketball player, played as a shooting guard and small forward. Played for the Cleveland Cavaliers from 1970 to 1976 and later played for the San Diego Clippers until 1980. Contributed significantly to the development of the Cavaliers during the team's early years in the NBA. After retiring from playing, transitioned into coaching and other roles in basketball.
Continue ReadingPaul Martin Lester
An American photographer, author, and educator specialized in visual communication and photography. Conducted extensive research on the role of photographs in society and authored several books on photography. Served as a professor and contributed to academic discourse through teaching and publications. His work has been influential in understanding the impact of images in media and culture.
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