What Happened This Year 1938

Born in 1938

Murtala Mohammed

Nigerian General and President
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1976 49 years ago — 38 years old

Served as a Nigerian general and the fourth president of Nigeria from 1975 until assassination in 1976. Oversaw a period of military rule known for political action, economic reform, and efforts to combat corruption. Established a policy of immediate return to civilian rule, which laid the groundwork for Nigeria's eventual transition to democracy. Focused on infrastructural development and aimed to control the economy more effectively, taking steps that included a nationalization policy affecting several sectors.

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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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Nida Fazli

Indian poet and lyricist of Hindi Urdu songs
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2016 9 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent poet and lyricist, contributed to Hindi and Urdu literature through poetry and lyrics for films. Born in 1938, started writing poetry at a young age and published notable collections. Gained recognition for poignant verses that often explored themes of love, loss, and humanity. Worked in Bollywood, penning lyrics for numerous hit songs, enriching the Indian film music industry. Awarded the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award in 1987 for excellence in Urdu poetry.

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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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Clay Ford

American lawyer and politician
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 75 years old

Served as a member of the Michigan Senate from 1979 to 1990. Played a significant role in the state legislature, contributing to various legislative efforts during tenure. Held positions including chair of the Michigan Senate Appropriations Committee, influencing budgetary decisions and state funding allocations. After leaving the Senate, remained active in state politics and law.

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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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Andrzej Szczeklik

Polish physician and medical academic
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

Worked in the field of internal medicine and contributed significantly to understanding respiratory diseases. Held a professorship at the Jagiellonian University in Krakow and published extensively on asthma and allergic diseases. Served as the president of the Polish Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Authored several books, including notable works on the history of medicine and human diseases.

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