What Happened This Year 2024

People Who Died in 2024

Melanie

Singer-songwriter known for 'Brand New Key'
Born
February 3rd, 1947 79 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 77 years old

An American singer-songwriter emerged in the late 1960s with a unique blend of folk and pop music. Gained prominence with the hit single 'Brand New Key' in 1971, which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Her music often featured introspective lyrics and a distinctive voice. Released several albums throughout her career, contributing to the folk music scene and performing at iconic venues such as the Woodstock Festival in 1969. Maintained a dedicated fan base and continued to tour into the 21st century.

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Malcolm Smith

Motorcycle Racer, Baja 1000 Champion
Born
March 9th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 83 years old

A Canadian-American motorcycle racer competed in off-road motorcycle racing. Achieved wide recognition for winning the Baja 1000 multiple times, showcasing exceptional skill and endurance in challenging terrains. Played a significant role in popularizing off-road racing through various media appearances, notably in the film "On Any Sunday." Had a successful career as a racer, becoming an influential figure in motorcycle sports during the 1960s and 1970s.

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Dries van Agt

Dutch Prime Minister, diplomat, jurist
Born
February 2nd, 1931 95 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent politician and diplomat, played a significant role in Dutch politics. Served as the Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1977 to 1982. His administration focused on economic reforms and social policies during a period of economic challenges. Worked as a jurist and contributed to international diplomacy, particularly in European and Middle Eastern affairs. After serving as Prime Minister, engaged in diplomatic missions and continued involvement in political discourse.

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Bernd Hölzenbein

Footballer and scout with World Cup title
Born
March 9th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 78 years old

A professional footballer who played as a forward. Played for Eintracht Frankfurt from 1963 to 1979, earning recognition as a key player. Contributed to Eintracht Frankfurt's victory in the UEFA Cup in 1980. Also played for the West German national team, participating in the 1974 FIFA World Cup, which resulted in a championship title. After retiring from active play, transitioned into a scouting role in football.

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Aribert Reimann

German composer and pianist
Born
March 4th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 88 years old

A pianist and composer, recognized for contributions to contemporary classical music. Created numerous operas, orchestral, and chamber works. Composed notable operas including 'Lear' and 'Medea', which garnered attention at major opera houses. Served as a professor at the Hochschule für Musik in Munich, influencing the next generation of musicians. His works often reflect a unique blend of traditional and modern elements, showcasing a deep understanding of musical structure and emotion.

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Christos Yannaras

Greek philosopher and theologian, authored works
Born
April 10th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 89 years old

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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N. Scott Momaday

Poet and Pulitzer Prize-winning author
Born
February 27th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 90 years old

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.

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Niklaus Wirth

Computer Scientist, Creator of Pascal Language
Born
February 15th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 90 years old

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.

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Leon Cooper

Physicist and Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
February 28th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 94 years old

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.

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