What Happened This Year 1930

Born in 1930

Frank Drake

Radio astronomer and astrophysicist
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2022 3 years ago — 92 years old

A radio astronomer and astrophysicist contributed extensively to the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. Developed the Drake Equation, a formula estimating the number of active, communicative extraterrestrial civilizations in the Milky Way galaxy. Initiated the SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) program, which employed radio telescopes to search for signals from potentially habitable planets. Worked on the Mariner 2 spacecraft mission to Venus, providing valuable data on solar radiation.

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Jan Olszewski

Polish Prime Minister and attorney
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
February 7th, 2019 7 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Poland from December 1991 to June 1992. Focused on economic reforms and the transition from a centrally planned economy to a market-oriented system. Played a significant role in the political landscape during the post-communist era. Olszewski’s government worked on establishing new legal frameworks and privatizing state-owned enterprises.

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Tom Umphlett

American baseball player and manager
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old

Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1953 to 1960. Teams included the Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Indians, and the Philadelphia Phillies. Transitioned to managing after his playing career, leading minor league teams in various leagues. Contributed to the development of young players in the sport.

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A. P. Venkateswaran

Indian soldier and politician
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2014 11 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the 14th Foreign Secretary of India and held various key positions in the Indian government. Joined the Indian Army and pursued a career in politics, contributing to both defense and diplomatic sectors. Engaged in significant international negotiations and served in various capacities during critical periods in India's foreign relations.

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John T. Downey

CIA agent and federal judge
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 84 years old

Served as a CIA agent during the Cold War, participating in covert operations in support of U.S. foreign policy. Following a career in intelligence, transitioned to a judicial role, serving as a federal judge. Contributed to the legal community and focused on upholding the law during tenure in the judiciary.

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Fritz Wunderlich

German tenor celebrated for operatic roles
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1966 59 years ago — 36 years old

An acclaimed German tenor gained recognition for outstanding performances in the operatic world during the mid-20th century. Primarily associated with the operas of Mozart and German lieder, he showcased a remarkable vocal talent and emotional delivery. His career flourished in prestigious venues across Europe, particularly at the Stuttgart State Opera and the Salzburg Festival. Despite a career cut short by an untimely death, his recordings remain influential in classical music.

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Kenneth Minogue

Political Scientist and Academic
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed to political philosophy and theory, focusing on the nature of politics and its relation to society. Worked in academia and published extensively, including major works such as 'The Concept of a Political Society'. Served as a professor at the London School of Economics and later at the University of Notre Dame Australia. His scholarship included critiques of modern liberal democracies and discussions on the role of political institutions.

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Dakota Staton

American jazz and soul singer, 'The Late Late Show'
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2007 18 years ago — 77 years old

An American singer, recognized for contributions to jazz and soul music. Gained wider recognition in the 1950s with successful albums and performances. Achieved critical acclaim for the recording of 'The Late Late Show,' showcasing a rich vocal style and emotional depth. Collaborated with prominent artists and musicians throughout the career, becoming a respected figure in the jazz community. Continued to perform and record until the later years, maintaining a dedicated fan base.

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Dick Harter

Basketball coach and player at a high level
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a college basketball coach and player. Played for the University of Maine and later transitioned into coaching. Coached at several institutions, leading teams to multiple tournament appearances. Known for a strong defensive coaching philosophy and developing players' skills. Worked at both the University of Oregon and the University of North Carolina among other schools.

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