What Happened This Year 1938

Born in 1938

Rosalind Cash

Singer and actress of film and television
Born
December 31st, 1938 86 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1995 30 years ago — 56 years old

An American singer and actress who appeared in several television shows and films. Gained recognition for roles in the films 'The Omega Man' and 'The New Centurions'. Acted on television, including a prominent role on 'NYPD Blue'. Also noted for performances in stage productions. Continued to work in the entertainment industry until her death.

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Atje Keulen-Deelstra

Dutch speed skater and world champion
Born
December 31st, 1938 86 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old

A speed skater competed internationally for the Netherlands. Achievements include multiple world championships and setting several speed records. Notable for contributions to the sport and participation in the 1960 Winter Olympics. Continued to influence the sport after retiring from competitive skating.

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Kenny Rogers

American singer and songwriter
Born
November 10th, 1964 60 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2020 5 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent figure in American country music, this artist achieved widespread acclaim for his distinctive voice and storytelling ability. He began his career in the late 1950s and rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s. His signature hits include 'The Gambler,' which explores themes of life lessons, and 'Lady,' a romantic ballad that showcased his emotive vocal style. Throughout his career, he was also involved in acting, appearing in films such as 'Six Pack.' The musician won numerous awards, including several Grammy Awards and Country Music Association accolades, solidifying a legacy that spanned multiple decades. He remains a celebrated figure within the music industry.

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Thomas M. Cover

Information theorist and author
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed significantly to information theory and statistical learning. Co-authored the influential textbook 'Elements of Information Theory' with Joy A. Thomas, which became a foundational text in the field. Served as a professor at Stanford University, where research focused on topics such as pattern recognition, data compression, and statistical inference. Engaged in work that explored the convergence of learning algorithms and information theory principles.

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Jean-Baptiste Tati Loutard

Congolese poet and politician
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2009 16 years ago — 71 years old

A poet and politician from the Republic of the Congo, made significant contributions to literature and political discourse. Served in various governmental roles, including as a member of the National Assembly. His literary works reflected the cultural and social issues of the time, blending poetry with political commentary. Engaged in promoting the arts and advocating for political changes within the country. Continued to influence subsequent generations of writers and activists through both poetry and public service.

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Ove Andersson

Swedish race car driver and team manager
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in motorsport, this individual achieved significant success as a rally driver and later transitioned to management roles. Competed in the World Rally Championship during the 1970s, securing multiple victories. Established a successful career in rallying, driving for teams such as Toyota and securing notable wins in events like the Swedish Rally. After retirement from driving, took on a managerial role with Toyota's rally team, contributing to the development of future rally talent and strategies. This individual played an influential role in shaping the motorsport landscape in Sweden.

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Ruud van Hemert

Dutch actor and director of TV series
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

Involvement in the Dutch entertainment industry spanned multiple roles including acting, directing, producing, and screenwriting. Worked on various television series and films, contributing significantly to the local film culture. Gained recognition for directing popular Dutch television series and films during a successful career. Contributions included writing and directing episodes that received acclaim and influenced future productions.

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Albert White Hat

American educator and activist for Native rights
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
June 13th, 2013 12 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed to Native American education and rights advocacy. Worked at the University of South Dakota as a professor and a prominent figure in the development of Native American studies programs. Actively participated in advocating for the rights of Native peoples, promoting cultural preservation and social justice. Involved in various educational initiatives to enhance awareness and understanding of Native American history and culture. Served in leadership roles with organizations dedicated to improving educational opportunities for Native youth.

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Dick Rutan

Military aviator and record-setting pilot
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2024 1 years ago — 86 years old

A military aviator and aerospace engineer, contributed significantly to aviation history. Gained prominence as the pilot of Voyager, the first aircraft to fly around the world non-stop without refueling. This historic flight took place in December 1986, covering approximately 26,000 miles in 9 days, 3 minutes, and 44 seconds. After retiring from the U.S. Air Force, engaged in various aerospace projects and played a vital role in developing new aircraft technologies. Rutan also authored multiple aviation-focused publications, providing insights into his experiences and innovations in flight.

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