What Happened This Year 1938
Born in 1938
Adam Daniel Rotfeld
An academic and politician with a significant role in Polish foreign policy. Served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2001 to 2002, engaging in diplomatic relations and international negotiations. Played a pivotal role in Poland's role in NATO and the European Union. Advocated for European integration and worked on security and defense issues, contributing to Poland's international stature. Engaged in scholarly work focusing on international relations and security studies.
Continue ReadingPaula Prentiss
An American actress gained recognition for a vibrant career in film and television. Prentiss starred in major films during the 1960s and 1970s, showcasing her talent in a variety of roles. She made significant appearances in films such as 'The Last of Mrs. Lincoln' and 'The Stepford Wives'. Additionally, she featured in popular television series including 'He & She', which highlighted her comedic talents and contributed to her prominence in the industry.
Continue ReadingAlpha Condé
A prominent politician served as the President of Guinea from December 21, 2010, until September 5, 2021. Initial political involvement began in the 1950s, leading to a long history of activism against dictatorship in Guinea. Condé's political career included periods of exile and imprisonment. Elected as the first democratically elected president, implemented several reforms during the presidency focusing on education and infrastructure. Established relationships with foreign governments to attract investment in Guinea's natural resources.
Continue ReadingAnton Balasingham
A prominent negotiator in Sri Lanka's civil conflict, played a crucial role in peace negotiations between the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the Sri Lankan government. Worked extensively to establish frameworks for ceasefires and formal talks aimed at political solutions. Authored numerous documents outlining the LTTE's positions and demands during the peace process. Contributed to the 2002 ceasefire agreement, which marked a significant attempt to resolve decades of conflict through dialogue and negotiation. Actively engaged in international diplomacy to garner support for the Tamil cause.
Continue ReadingDon Perkins
An American football player and sportscaster, played as a running back in the National Football League. Spent the majority of his career with the Dallas Cowboys and earned four Pro Bowl selections during his tenure. After retirement from professional football, transitioned into a successful career in broadcasting, providing insightful analysis and commentary on the sport. Inducted into the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor, recognizing contributions to the team.
Continue ReadingFred Williamson
Played as a cornerback in professional football. Served in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Oakland Raiders. Transitioned to a career in film, directing and acting in various genres. Achieved recognition for performances in films such as 'Black Caesar' and 'Hell Up in Harlem.' Involved in multiple aspects of film production, including writing and producing. Notable for contributions to the Blaxploitation genre.
Continue ReadingLynn Margulis
A biologist and academic with significant contributions to evolutionary biology, studied the role of symbiosis in the development of complex life forms. Developed the endosymbiotic theory, proposing that mitochondria and chloroplasts originated from free-living prokaryotic organisms that were engulfed by ancestral eukaryotic cells. Published numerous works including the influential book 'Symbiotic Planet' which detailed the importance of cooperation and synergy in evolution. Served as a professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and received various accolades for contributions to scientific understanding.
Continue ReadingKeishu Tanaka
Served as the 17th Minister of Justice in Japan, overseeing significant legal reforms and policies. Held the position during a period marked by numerous judicial advancements and reforms in the Japanese legal system. Contributed to discussions on criminal justice and human rights legislation, shaping the legal landscape in Japan. His tenure involved addressing challenging issues related to public safety and legal rights.
Continue ReadingDavid Baltimore
A biologist and academic contributed significantly to the field of molecular biology. Focused on the study of viruses, particularly the mechanisms of viral replication. Experimentation led to pivotal advancements in the understanding of cancer and the immune system. Served as president of the California Institute of Technology and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. In 1975, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for discoveries regarding the interactions between viruses and the genetic material of the cell.
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