What Happened This Year 1938

Born in 1938

Murray Gleeson

Chief Justice of Australia
Born
August 30th, 1938 86 years ago

Served as Chief Justice of Australia from 1998 to 2008. Gleeson held the position of the head of the Australian judiciary and oversaw numerous significant cases during his tenure. Prior to this role, he served as the President of the New South Wales Court of Appeal and had a prominent career in legal practice. Gleeson was appointed as an officer of the Order of Australia in recognition of contributions to law and justice. After retiring as Chief Justice, he continued to influence the legal landscape through various appointments and participation in legal education.

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Martin Bell

Journalist and politician with a focus on ethics
Born
August 31st, 1938 86 years ago

Worked as a journalist for the BBC, covering significant events including the Vietnam War and the fall of the Berlin Wall. Transitioned into politics, serving as a Member of Parliament for the Tatton constituency from 1997 to 2001. Advocated for issues such as integrity in public life and standards in journalism. Received recognition for efforts to promote transparency in government and tackle corruption. Authored several works reflecting on political life and media ethics.

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Alan Dershowitz

American attorney and legal scholar
Born
September 1st, 1938 86 years ago

An American attorney and legal scholar focused on constitutional law and criminal defense. Served as a professor at Harvard Law School for decades and authored numerous books on law and civil liberties. Gained public attention for defense in high-profile cases, including the trials of O.J. Simpson and Mike Tyson. Engaged in significant commentary on issues related to human rights and civil liberties, and has written extensively on these topics.

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Jimmy Clanton

Pop singer-songwriter with 'Venus'
Born
September 2nd, 1938 86 years ago

A prominent figure in the pop music scene during the late 1950s and early 1960s, rose to fame with the hit single 'Venus', which topped the charts in 1959. Released several albums that showcased a blend of pop and rock elements. Collaborated with notable music industry figures and contributed to the evolving sound of the era. Also featured on television programs and contributed to the cultural landscape of the time.

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Ryōji Noyori

Nobel Prize-winning chemist and academic
Born
September 3rd, 1938 86 years ago

A prominent chemist and academic, contributions focused on asymmetric synthesis. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2001 alongside other researchers for work on chirality in chemical processes. Deeply involved in academic pursuits, serving as a professor and later as president of the RIKEN research institute. Work in catalysis has influenced advancements in pharmaceuticals and chemical research.

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Richard MacCormac

Architect, founder of MJP Architects
Born
September 3rd, 1938 86 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2014 10 years ago — 75 years old

An English architect contributed significantly to architectural practice through the founding of MJP Architects. Established in 1985, the firm became recognized for its innovative and context-sensitive designs. The work completed by the firm includes public and educational buildings, residential projects, and urban design initiatives. MacCormac's approach combined modernist principles with a sensitivity to site and community needs. His designs emphasized sustainability and social relevance, aiming to create spaces that were not only functional but also enriched the environment and community life.

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Caryl Churchill

Playwright and screenwriter
Born
September 3rd, 1938 86 years ago

An English-Canadian playwright born in 1938, focused on themes of gender and power dynamics. Gained recognition for innovative works that incorporate non-linear narratives and complex female characters. Wrote notable plays including 'Top Girls', which explores women's roles in society, and 'Cloud Nine', which examines colonialism and sexual politics. Engaged in political activism through writing, contributing to discussions on feminism and social justice. Her work has been influential in contemporary theatre.

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John Ferguson Sr.

Ice hockey player and manager
Born
September 5th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 69 years old

Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Montreal Canadiens and the New York Rangers from 1956 to 1969. Transitioned to coaching and management, taking on a prominent role as a general manager for the Winnipeg Jets and the New York Rangers. Contributed to the development of numerous players and teams in professional ice hockey.

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Joan Tower

American composer and conductor
Born
September 6th, 1938 86 years ago

A prominent figure in contemporary classical music, contributions span composition, conducting, and performance. Composed notable works such as 'Fanfare for the Uncommon Woman' and 'Petroushskates'. Served as a conductor for the Women's Philharmonic and as a pianist in various ensembles. Educated at Bennington College and Columbia University, Tower has received multiple honors throughout her career, including the Charles Ives Living Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters.

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