What Happened This Year 1937

Born in 1937

Juvénal Habyarimana

Rwandan politician, President of Rwanda
Born
March 8th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1994 30 years ago — 57 years old

Served as the President of Rwanda from 1973 until 1994. Came to power following a military coup that ousted the previous government. Implemented policies that favored the Hutu ethnic group and led to increased tensions with the Tutsi minority. His presidency was marked by civil unrest and violence. Assassination in April 1994 precipitated the Rwandan Genocide, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 800,000 people within a span of 100 days. His leadership style was described as autocratic, consolidating power within the executive branch.

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Richard Fariña

American singer-songwriter and author
Born
March 8th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 29 years old

Fariña contributed to the folk music revival of the 1960s through his songs and literary works. Collaborated with his wife, Mimi Baez, and gained recognition for the album 'Celebration for a Grey Day' released in 1965. Authored the novel 'Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up to Me', published in 1966, which gained a cult following. His artistic career was cut short by his untimely death in a motorcycle accident in 1966.

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Brian Redman

Race Car Driver and 1969 Le Mans Winner
Born
March 9th, 1937 88 years ago

An English race car driver, active primarily during the 1960s and 1970s, competed in numerous endurance races, earning recognition in the world of motorsport. Achieved significant success, particularly in sports car racing and was a part of multiple notable racing teams. Achieved victory at the 1969 24 Hours of Le Mans driving for the John Wyer Automotive Engineering team, showcasing skill in navigating the challenging race conditions. Participated in other major events including the Formula One World Championship, where participation highlighted versatility in driving various types of racing vehicles.

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Bernard Landry

Canadian politician and Premier of Quebec
Born
March 9th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
November 6th, 2018 6 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a prominent figure in Quebec politics, holding influential roles in various capacities including the Premier of Quebec from 2001 to 2003. Played a vital role in the sovereignty movement and supported the Quebec sovereignty association. Worked as a lawyer prior to entering politics, contributing to legal and governmental projects. Participated in economic development initiatives and was involved with the Parti Québécois, pushing for policies aligned with Quebec nationalism.

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María Kodama

Argentine writer and translator of Borges
Born
March 10th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2023 1 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Argentina, this writer and translator specialized in the works of Jorge Luis Borges. A prominent figure in the literary world, she contributed significantly to the understanding and dissemination of Borges' works, both in Spanish and through her translations into various languages. She served as an academic and held positions in several universities, promoting literature and translation studies. Notably, she published several essays and works that delve into the intricacies of Borges' writing, enriching the scholarship surrounding his contributions to literature.

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Zurab Sotkilava

Operatic tenor with acclaimed performances
Born
March 12th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent operatic tenor from Georgia, dedicated much of his career to the performance of classic operas. Gained recognition for powerful performances at renowned opera houses. Collaborated with various orchestras and participated in international competitions, achieving noteworthy accolades. Held positions at leading opera companies and performed under notable conductors. His contributions to the operatic repertoire left a significant mark in the field.

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Zoltán Horvath

Hungarian sabre fencer and Olympian
Born
March 12th, 1937 88 years ago

Achieved prominence as a sabre fencer representing Hungary. Competed at the Olympic Games in the 1960s, showcasing skills in intense bouts. Contributed to Hungary's rich fencing tradition, earning accolades in international competitions. Excelled in both individual and team events during a career marked by remarkable performances.

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Peter van der Merwe

South African cricketer and referee
Born
March 14th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 75 years old

An accomplished cricketer and referee, contributed significantly to the sport of cricket in South Africa. Played as a right-handed batsman and represented Western Province in domestic competitions. Transitioned to officiating, serving as a referee in various international matches, including the ICC Cricket World Cup. Contributed to the development of cricket in South Africa through refereeing and mentorship roles within the sport.

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Valentin Rasputin

Russian environmentalist and author
Born
March 15th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 78 years old

An environmentalist and author focused on the preservation of Russian nature and culture. Wrote extensively on the relationship between humanity and the natural world. Gained recognition through works that emphasized ecological themes and rural life in Siberia. Also served as a public figure concerned with environmental issues in Russia, promoting awareness and advocacy for ecological preservation.

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