What Happened This Year 1938

Born in 1938

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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Abu Ali Mustafa

Palestinian politician and leader
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2001 23 years ago — 63 years old

A significant figure in Palestinian politics, served as the Secretary-General of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP). Engaged in the Palestinian national struggle and played a crucial role in the political landscape of the region. Advocated for Palestinian rights and participated in numerous political activities. Assassinated in 2001, sparking widespread reactions across the Palestinian territories and the Arab world.

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Robert Graham

Mexican-American sculptor
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2008 16 years ago — 70 years old

A Mexican-American sculptor, significant contributions include monumental public works and artistic representations of cultural themes. Specialized in bronze sculptures, complemented by various media. Created prominent pieces such as 'The Great Journey' at the Los Angeles International Airport and 'The Rite of Passage' located in Santa Monica, California. Influenced the art community through innovative techniques and cultural storytelling.

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Thomas J. Donohue

Business executive and Chamber leader
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2024 0 years ago — 86 years old

Served as president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce from 1997 to 2019. Played a significant role in advocating for business interests at the national level, influencing economic policies. Led the chamber's efforts in promoting free enterprise and workforce development. Contributed to various initiatives enhancing the business environment across the United States.

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Frankie Randall

American singer-songwriter, pianist
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2014 10 years ago — 76 years old

An American singer-songwriter and pianist, recognized for contributions to the music industry primarily in the genres of jazz and pop. Achieved success as a solo artist and also as a recording artist for prominent labels such as Reprise and RCA. Collaborated with various musicians and ensembles, creating a distinct style that combined vocal prowess with skilled piano performances. Performed extensively in clubs and concert venues during a career that spanned several decades.

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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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Gladys Marín

Chilean political activist and leader
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
March 6th, 2005 20 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent figure in Chilean politics, played a crucial role in the country's political landscape during the 20th century. Worked with the Communist Party of Chile and served as a member of the Chamber of Deputies. Advocated for human rights and social justice, especially during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. Became notable for her leadership in organizations that supported political prisoners and their families. Ran for president in 1993, representing the leftist coalition and becoming a key voice for the marginalized in Chilean society. Passed away in 2005, leaving a legacy in political activism.

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Zdeněk Veselovský

Czech zoologist and ethologist
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
November 24th, 2006 18 years ago — 68 years old

Contributed to the understanding of animal behavior and ecology. Specialized in the study of insects, particularly ants. Conducted research that explored communication and social structures within ant colonies. Published numerous papers and articles that influenced ethology and behavioral ecology. Held academic positions and mentored students in the field of zoology.

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M. M. Kalburgi

Indian scholar and academic author
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2015 9 years ago — 77 years old

An influential scholar and academic focused on Kannada literature and philosophy. Authored several notable works that addressed various aspects of literature and cultural critique. Contributed to the academic community through teaching at multiple institutions. Participated in intellectual discourses regarding social issues and literary traditions, enhancing the understanding of Kannada heritage. His work engaged with themes of social reform and ethics within literature.

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