What Happened This Year 1938

Born in 1938

Renzo Pasolini

Italian motorcycle racer and champion
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1973 52 years ago — 35 years old

A prominent motorcycle racer, achieved significant success in the 1960s. Secured multiple victories in Grand Prix motorcycle racing, particularly in the 250cc and 350cc classes. His racing career included notable performances with the MV Agusta factory team. Pasolini competed vigorously in the championship series and established a reputation for skill and speed on the track. Tragically, his life ended in a racing accident during the 1973 season, marking a somber moment in motorcycle racing history.

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Dave Alexander

Singer and pianist with The Stooges
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

A singer and pianist associated with the influential rock band The Stooges. Contributed to the development of punk music during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The Stooges gained notoriety for their energetic performances and raw sound. Played a significant role in the band's self-titled album, 'The Stooges,' which is considered a landmark in the genre. Continued to influence musicians and bands in the years following the band's early disbandment.

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LeeRoy Yarbrough

Race car driver with NASCAR success
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1984 40 years ago — 46 years old

Achieved significant success in NASCAR during the 1960s. Won the 1969 Daytona 500, one of the premier events in American stock car racing. Secured victories in the Grand National series, finishing second in the championship standings in 1968. Competed for several teams including Junior Johnson & Associates and recorded multiple wins in various NASCAR events. Yarbrough's racing career was marked by numerous achievements before he retired from racing in the 1970s.

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Robert Hughes

Author and art critic, wrote 'The Shock of the New'
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2012 12 years ago — 74 years old

An Australian-American author and critic, contributed significantly to art criticism and cultural commentary. Served as the art critic for Time magazine for three decades. Published several influential books, including 'The Shock of the New,' which examined the evolution of modern art. His works often included sharp analyses of contemporary art and culture, blending personal narrative with insightful critique. Received several awards for contributions to art criticism and literature, establishing a prominent voice in the field.

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Jim Anderton

Former New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2018 7 years ago — 80 years old

Served as a member of the New Zealand Parliament for many years. Held various cabinet positions, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Played a significant role in the Labour Party and was instrumental in its leadership. Founded the Progressive Party, advocating for social justice and economic reform. Contributed to significant policy changes in New Zealand's economic landscape.

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Jean Garon

Economist and Canadian politician
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old

A Canadian economist and lawyer, held significant roles in provincial and federal politics. Elected as a Member of Parliament for the Bloc Québécois, served from 1993 to 1997. Advocated for agricultural issues and was involved in various committees during tenure. Prior to political career, practiced law and contributed to economic discussions and policy development.

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Gust Avrakotos

CIA officer and key Iran-Contra figure
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2005 19 years ago — 67 years old

A career officer in the CIA, played a significant role in the agency's operations during the Cold War. Worked in various capacities, including overseeing covert operations in Afghanistan that supported the Mujahideen against the Soviet invasion. Instrumental in the Iran-Contra affair, managing the controversial arms deals and funding for Nicaraguan rebels. Achieved recognition for operational strategies and contributions to U.S. foreign policy during tumultuous periods.

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Peter Westbury

Race Car Driver, 1968 British Saloon Champion
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2015 9 years ago — 77 years old

A race car driver competed primarily in British motorsport. Achieved significant recognition during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Won the British Saloon Car Championship in 1968 driving for the Ford team. Participated in various racing events, including the European Touring Car Championship and the British GT Championship, gaining a reputation for skill and competitiveness on the track. Continued involvement in motorsport beyond driving, including roles in car preparation and racing events.

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Judith Kaye

American lawyer and jurist, Chief Judge
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2016 9 years ago — 78 years old

Served as Chief Judge of the New York Court of Appeals from 1993 to 2008, becoming the first woman to hold this position. Prior to this role, served as an associate judge on the court starting in 1983. Contributed significantly to the reform of the legal system in New York. Worked as the first female judge on New York's highest court and earned respect for various rulings, particularly in areas regarding civil rights and family law. Advocated for the enhancement of the state's judicial system.

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