What Happened This Year 1938

Born in 1938

Valentin Mankin

Ukrainian sailor and Olympic champion
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent sailor from Ukraine, played in multiple Olympic Games and won medals in sailing events. Achieved significant success at the 1960 and 1964 Olympics, securing gold medals in the Flying Dutchman class. Contributed to the development of sailing in Ukraine and served as a coach promoting the sport after retirement. His achievements in competitive sailing earned recognition within the international sailing community.

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Taha Yassin Ramadan

Iraqi politician, Vice President of Iraq
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2007 18 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the Vice President of Iraq during the regime of Saddam Hussein. Participated in the Iraqi Ba'ath Party's leadership and held various governmental roles. His tenure included significant events in Iraq's history, particularly during the Gulf War. After the invasion of Iraq in 2003, he was captured and later tried for crimes against humanity. Executed in 2007.

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Helga Königsdorf

Physicist and author with research papers
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old

Engaged in research in the field of physics, authored several papers contributing to advancements in the discipline. Focused on various aspects of theoretical physics and made noteworthy contributions to complex systems. Actively promoted science through outreach programs and public lectures. Also involved in education, helping to shape future generations of physicists.

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Gregorio Peces-Barba

Spanish jurist and politician
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
July 24th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed to constitutional law and political reform in Spain. Played a significant role in drafting the Spanish Constitution of 1978. Served as a member of the Spanish Parliament representing the Socialist Party. Held various academic and judicial roles, significantly impacting the Spanish legal landscape. Advocated for civil rights and democracy during Spain's transition to democracy.

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Nikola Kotkov

Bulgarian footballer with CSKA Sofia success
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1971 54 years ago — 33 years old

Renowned Bulgarian footballer played as a forward. Had a significant career with CSKA Sofia, which included multiple national championships. Represented the Bulgarian national team in major international competitions. Contributed to the team's success during the mid-20th century.

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Ruud van Hemert

Dutch actor and director of TV series
Born
1938 88 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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Aída Bortnik

Argentinian screenwriter of films and series
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
April 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 75 years old

Bortnik was a prominent figure in Argentine cinema. She contributed extensively to film and television, shaping narratives that resonated with audiences in Argentina and beyond. Bortnik's work included acclaimed screenplays that showcased her talent in storytelling. A collaboration with renowned director Fernando Bassi resulted in the successful television series 'Cuentos de la Selva', which gained popularity for its engaging content and rich storytelling.

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Sadanoyama Shinmatsu

Sumo wrestler and Yokozuna champion
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
April 27th, 2017 8 years ago — 79 years old

Achieved the highest rank of Yokozuna in sumo wrestling. Competed primarily in the post-war era and became well known for exceptional technique and strength. Dominated the sport during the 1960s, contributing significantly to its popularity in Japan. After retiring, took on coaching roles and played a vital part in training future generations of sumo wrestlers.

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Terence Spinks

Boxer and trainer with Olympic medal
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
April 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

A boxer and trainer, achieved significant success in the sport of boxing. Competed in the 1960 Rome Olympics, winning a gold medal in the bantamweight division. Transitioned to professional boxing, where a successful career included notable fights and recognitions within the sport. Later pursued a career in training, mentoring upcoming boxers. Also contributed to the boxing community through coaching and development activities.

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