What Happened This Year 2024

People Who Died in 2024

Eric Carmen

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, 'Hungry Eyes'
Born
August 11th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 75 years old

Eric Carmen is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist. He gained prominence in the 1970s as the lead vocalist of the rock band The Raspberries, contributing to the power pop genre. In 1975, he launched a successful solo career, achieving significant acclaim with hit singles such as 'Hungry Eyes' and 'All By Myself.' The latter was later covered by various artists, further solidifying its place in pop culture. Carmen's music blends pop and rock elements, characterized by emotive lyrics and catchy melodies.

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Gigi Riva

Italian footballer and manager, UEFA Euro 1968
Born
November 7th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent figure in Italian football, played as a forward and represented Cagliari in Serie A. Contributed significantly to Cagliari's first Serie A title in the 1969-70 season. Competed in the Italian national team, securing victory in the UEFA Euro 1968. Transitioned to a managerial role after retirement, coaching several Italian clubs.

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Frank Ryan

American football player and mathematician
Born
July 12th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 88 years old

A professional American football player and mathematician. Played quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Cleveland Browns. Contributed to the game with strategic insights and a strong understanding of mathematical principles. Had a successful football career following collegiate play at Rice University where he was recognized for his performance. After retiring from the NFL, continued academic pursuits and became a noted figure in mathematics education.

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Arno Allan Penzias

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics 1978
Born
April 26th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 91 years old

A German-American physicist contributed significantly to the field of astrophysics. Penzias served as a researcher at Bell Laboratories, where he and Robert Wilson discovered the cosmic microwave background radiation, providing strong evidence for the Big Bang theory. This pivotal discovery earned the 1978 Nobel Prize in Physics. Penzias also held various academic positions, sharing knowledge and advancing research in physics and engineering disciplines.

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Duane Eddy

Guitarist and rock musician
Born
April 26th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent guitarist and rock musician, played a significant role in shaping the instrumental rock genre. Gained popularity in the late 1950s and early 1960s with a distinctive sound characterized by twangy guitar riffs. Released hit singles including 'Rebel Rouser' and 'Peter Gunn', which showcased innovative use of guitar effects. Collaborated with various artists throughout the career and left a notable mark on rock music. Involved in the music industry for several decades, influencing countless musicians and contributing to the evolution of rock and roll.

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Jadwiga Staniszkis

Polish sociologist and political scientist
Born
April 26th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent Polish sociologist and political scientist, highly regarded for contributions to understanding social transformation and political change in post-communist Poland. Published extensively on topics such as social stratification, political elites, and the role of social movements in shaping democratic processes. Involved in academic institutions and public discourse about Poland's political landscape, influencing both scholarly and public perspectives on sociopolitical issues.

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James D. Hughes

Air Force lieutenant general
Born
July 7th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 102 years old

Served as a lieutenant general in the United States Air Force. Played a significant role in the U.S. military during the Cold War, contributing to strategic planning and operations. Held various command positions and was involved in key initiatives that shaped air power in modern warfare. Commanded several units, overseeing operations and personnel management. Retired with a wealth of experience in military leadership and operations.

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Al Cantello

Javelin thrower and coach
Born
June 9th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 91 years old

Achievements include competing in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics as a javelin thrower. Cantello secured multiple championships during his athletic career, earning a reputation as a top competitor in the field. Later, he contributed to the sport as a coach, sharing expertise and mentoring aspiring athletes. His coaching career spanned several decades, focusing on developing techniques and strategies for javelin throwers.

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Robert H. Dennard

Electrical engineer and inventor of DRAM
Born
September 5th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed to the development of dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), a form of computer memory widely used in computers and devices. Received several awards for innovation in the field of electrical engineering. Held a prominent position at IBM, where many pioneering advancements in semiconductor technology occurred. The invention has significantly influenced computing technology and the electronics industry.

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