What Happened This Year 1938

Born in 1938

Vladimir Vysotsky

Russian singer-songwriter and actor
Born
January 25th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1980 44 years ago — 42 years old

Born in 1938, this individual emerged as a prominent figure in Russian music and theater. Gaining recognition as a singer-songwriter, composed over 600 songs characterized by deep poetry and emotional intensity. Additionally, performed major roles in theatrical productions, particularly at the Taganka Theatre in Moscow. His songs often addressed social and political topics, resonating with audiences during a time of great change in the Soviet Union. The cultural legacy includes a profound influence on the Russian bard movement, with many songs remaining popular in contemporary Russian culture.

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Shotaro Ishinomori

Japanese manga artist and author
Born
January 25th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1998 27 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent manga artist and author, contributed significantly to the development of manga in Japan. Created series such as 'Cyborg 009' and 'Kamen Rider', which became cultural phenomena. Began a career in the 1950s, publishing numerous works that captured the imagination of audiences. His style and storytelling techniques influenced a generation of manga artists and helped establish manga as an important form of entertainment.

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Leonid Zhabotinsky

Ukrainian weightlifter and coach
Born
January 28th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 78 years old

Participated in competitive weightlifting events, representing the Soviet Union. Achieved significant success in international competitions, including the World Weightlifting Championships and European Weightlifting Championships. Transitioned into coaching, contributing to the development of the sport in Ukraine. Influenced a generation of athletes through training and mentorship.

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Tomas Lindahl

Biologist, Nobel Prize laureate in Chemistry
Born
January 28th, 1938 87 years ago

A Swedish-English biologist contributed significantly to the understanding of DNA repair mechanisms. Conducted groundbreaking research on base excision repair, which is crucial for maintaining genetic stability. Worked at various esteemed institutions, including Clare Hall, Cambridge, and The Francis Crick Institute. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2015 for contributions to the study of DNA repair, sharing the honor with other prominent scientists.

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Islam Karimov

Politician, 1st President of Uzbekistan
Born
January 30th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2016 8 years ago — 78 years old

Held the position of the first President of Uzbekistan from 1991 until death in 2016. Served as the Secretary of the Communist Party of Uzbekistan from 1989 to 1990. Oversaw the country's transition to independence following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Implemented policies aimed at maintaining political stability and state control over the economy.

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Lynn Carlin

American actress with Academy Award nomination
Born
January 31st, 1938 87 years ago

An American actress gained recognition for work in film and television. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for the role in "Faces" (1968). Appeared in significant television shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "The Streets of San Francisco." Worked with various prominent directors during the career spanning several decades, contributing to both independent and mainstream projects.

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James G. Watt

U.S. Secretary of the Interior during Reagan
Born
January 31st, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 43rd United States Secretary of the Interior from 1981 to 1983. Played a significant role in environmental policy and land management during the Reagan administration. Focused on energy production and deregulation, advocating for increased access to federal lands for resource extraction. Oversaw controversial policies regarding national parks and wildlife management, leading to significant public debate. Resigned amid political controversies and criticism of management practices and policies.

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Beatrix of the Netherlands

Former Queen of the Netherlands
Born
January 31st, 1938 87 years ago

Became queen regnant of the Netherlands in 1980 and reigned until abdication in 2013. Focused on international relations, cultural heritage, and social issues during her reign. Engaged in numerous official duties, including state visits and the promotion of Dutch interests abroad. Played a significant role in the royal family's public image and modernization efforts.

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Jimmy Carl Black

Drummer and singer for The Mothers of Invention
Born
February 1st, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 70 years old

A drummer and singer, significant contributions were made to the psychedelic rock genre. Gained recognition as a member of The Mothers of Invention, a band led by Frank Zappa. Participated in the creation of landmark albums such as 'Freak Out!' and 'We're Only in It for the Money'. Black's unique style and vocal contributions helped define the band's sound during the 1960s.

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