What Happened This Year 1938

Born in 1938

J. D. McDuffie

Race Car Driver with NASCAR Participation
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1991 34 years ago — 53 years old

Participated in NASCAR racing from 1972 until 1991, competing in over 600 races. Achieved notable finishes, including a best result of eighth place in a NASCAR Cup Series event. Experienced numerous challenges throughout a lengthy career, often driving older equipment and competing without significant sponsorship. Recognized for dedication to the sport and his steadfast approach to racing.

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Fereydoun Farrokhzad

Iranian singer and actor with memorable performances
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1992 33 years ago — 54 years old

An influential figure in Iranian pop music and television, contributed significantly to the Iranian entertainment industry. Gained popularity in the 1970s with hit songs that gained widespread acclaim. Hosted the popular television show 'Gole Yakh' which featured music performances and entertainment discussions. After the Iranian Revolution, faced challenges that led to exile, yet continued to build a following among Persian-speaking communities abroad. Tragically, the life ended in 1992 under mysterious circumstances, marking a notable chapter in Iranian cultural history.

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Joseph Brooks

Director of 'You Light Up My Life'
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 2011 14 years ago — 73 years old

This individual served as a director, producer, screenwriter, and composer. Achieved prominence with the 1977 film 'You Light Up My Life', which garnered significant commercial success and critical acclaim. The film also featured a self-penned song that won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Worked across various mediums in the entertainment industry, showcasing a multifaceted talent in storytelling and music composition.

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Percy Qoboza

South African journalist and author
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 50 years old

Worked as a prominent journalist and editor in South Africa during the apartheid era. Served as the editor of The World and later The Sunday Post, becoming crucial in exposing social injustices. Wrote extensively about the struggles faced by black South Africans and advocated for democracy and equality. Received numerous awards for journalism, including the prestigious National Press Club's Journalist of the Year award in 1974. Continued to write after his exile and became a significant figure in South Africa’s media landscape until his death.

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Fernand Goyvaerts

Belgian footballer, participated in World Cup
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2004 21 years ago — 66 years old

A Belgian footballer specialized in the forward position, participated in the 1950 FIFA World Cup. Played for several clubs including KSC Lokeren and RSC Anderlecht, contributing to the teams' successes during his career. Goyvaerts was known for his skill and tactical awareness on the pitch, showcasing a strong presence in Belgian football during the mid-20th century.

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Leonardo Favio

Argentinian actor and film director
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2012 12 years ago — 74 years old

An influential figure in Argentine cinema, Favio directed several acclaimed films, integrating personal storytelling with social themes. A prominent actor, starred in productions such as "Crónica de un niño solo" and "Los gauchos judíos." Also gained recognition for musical contributions, particularly in the tango genre. His work often reflected the cultural and political landscape of Argentina.

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Monica Sjöö

Swedish-English painter and artist
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2005 20 years ago — 67 years old

An artist with a focus on feminism and spirituality, created visually powerful works that addressed themes of women's experiences and earth-centered philosophy. Engaged with various artistic movements, particularly feminism, throughout her career. The artist's work often featured vibrant colors and spiritual symbolism, reflecting a deep connection to nature and human experiences. In addition to painting, involved in writing and activism.

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Urs Widmer

Swiss author and playwright
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old

An author and playwright from Switzerland, created a significant body of work reflecting contemporary Swiss society. Notable works include the novel 'The Green Meadow' and the play 'The Tin Drum,' which tackle themes of identity and cultural conflict. Engaged in literary circles, contributed to various cultural discussions and promoted the importance of literature in modern life. Worked as an editor and influenced future generations of writers.

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Anne Karin Elstad

Norwegian author and educator
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

An author with a strong focus on children's literature and young adult fiction. Worked as a teacher, influencing her approach to storytelling. Wrote several books, some of which explored themes of identity and societal issues. Several of these works are celebrated in Norwegian literature and have contributed to the national discourse on youth and education.

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