What Happened This Year 2024
People Who Died in 2024
Evgeny Velikhov
An influential physicist and academic, contributed significantly to fusion research and plasma physics. Served as the director of the Kurchatov Institute, a key facility for nuclear research in Russia. Engaged in international scientific collaborations and initiatives promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Participated in the development of Tokamak technology, a major advancement in controlled thermonuclear fusion. Advocated for science policy and educational reforms in Russia throughout the academic career.
Continue ReadingMarcia Garbey
Became the first Olympic long jump finalist from Cuba, competing in the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal. Achieved national recognition in the sport, contributing to the development of athletics in Cuba. Excelled in long jump events during her athletic career and represented the country in international competitions. Played a significant role in inspiring future generations of Cuban athletes.
Continue ReadingLou Whittaker
Born in 1929, a prominent figure in American mountaineering, distinguished for significant achievements in the climbing community. One of the first American climbers to summit K2, the world’s second-highest mountain. Contributed to numerous expeditions in the Himalayas and Rockies. Alongside his brother, established a successful guiding business that trained many climbers. Also played a role in promoting the sport and fostering a culture of safety and environmental awareness within the climbing community.
Continue ReadingJohn B. Cobb
A philosopher and theologian contributed significantly to process philosophy and ecological theology. Developed a comprehensive approach to theology integrating science and religion. Wrote extensively on topics related to the environment, ethics, and faith, advancing discussions in the field. Co-founded the Process Theology movement, focusing on the dynamic relationship between God and the world.
Continue ReadingTerry Bisson
An American author, primarily wrote science fiction and fantasy. Gained recognition for the short story collection 'Bears Discover Fire' and the novel 'The Magic Goes Away'. His work often explored themes of technology, culture, and the human experience. Contributed to various anthologies and magazines, enhancing the genre's literary landscape.
Continue ReadingLeon Cooper
An American physicist and academic significantly contributed to the field of condensed matter physics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1972 for the development of the BCS theory, which explains superconductivity. Worked extensively in academia and held various positions at leading educational institutions, influencing the education of future physicists.
Continue ReadingNiklaus Wirth
A Swiss computer scientist contributed significantly to programming language development. Developed the Pascal programming language in the late 1960s, which became widely used in education and software development. Also created several other languages including Modula-2 and Oberon. Worked on the design of programming environments and contributed to software engineering principles. Held a professorship at ETH Zurich and published numerous papers advancing the field of computer science.
Continue ReadingN. Scott Momaday
An influential poet and writer, produced significant works that explore Native American culture and identity. The Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1969 was awarded for the novel 'House Made of Dawn', marking a pivotal moment in Native American literature. Other notable works include 'The Way to Rainy Mountain', which interweaves personal narrative with Kiowa history and mythology. Lectures and teachings have contributed to education in Native American literature and culture.
Continue ReadingChristos Yannaras
A prominent Greek philosopher and theologian, contributed significantly to contemporary thought in philosophy and theology. Engaged with issues around modernity and tradition, explored the relationship between faith and reason. Authored several influential texts, focusing on Orthodox Christianity, culture, and societal issues. Positioned as a critical voice in philosophical debates surrounding identity, ethics, and spirituality. Served as a professor of philosophy and theology at various institutions, influencing both students and academic discourse.
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