What Happened This Year 1938

Born in 1938

Leiji Matsumoto

Japanese manga artist and animator
Born
January 25th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 85 years old

An influential manga artist and animator, recognized for pioneering works in the science fiction genre. Created iconic series including 'Space Battleship Yamato' and 'Galaxy Express 999', which have had lasting effects on anime and manga culture. Also worked on the 'Captain Harlock' series, contributing to the aesthetic and storytelling techniques in animation. Developed a unique style that blended interesting narratives with stunning visuals, leaving a significant legacy in Japanese pop 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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Sherman Hemsley

Actor best known for 'The Jeffersons'
Born
February 1st, 1938 87 years ago
Died
July 24th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

An American actor and singer, this individual gained prominence for playing George Jefferson on the television sitcom 'The Jeffersons'. The show aired from 1975 to 1985 and was a spin-off of 'All in the Family'. This role showcased comedic talent and became a significant part of American television history. Hemsley also portrayed Deacon Ernest Frye on the series 'Amen', which ran from 1986 to 1991. Early in his career, he had a background in stage performance and served as a member of the United States Air Force prior to his acting endeavors. His work made him a familiar face in the entertainment industry, contributing to a legacy in television comedy.

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