What Happened This Year 1939

Born in 1939

Franco Carraro

Italian sports administrator and politician
Born
December 6th, 1939 85 years ago

Born in 1939, a prominent figure in Italian sports administration, served as the president of the Italian Football Federation. Held a significant role in various sports organizations, influencing sports policy and governance in Italy. Additionally, served as a member of the Italian Parliament, engaging in political endeavors related to sports and cultural affairs. Contributed to the globalization of football in Italy, focusing on infrastructural development and international relations within sports.

Continue Reading

James Galway

Irish flute player and soloist
Born
December 8th, 1939 85 years ago

A prominent flute player, gained recognition for classical and contemporary performances. Performed with major orchestras and ensembles, including the Berlin Philharmonic and London Symphony Orchestra. Released a number of albums featuring a range of musical styles from classical to jazz. Celebrated for virtuosic technique and expressive interpretation, and frequently engaged in collaborations with other artists and composers.

Continue Reading

Soko Richardson

American drummer known for jazz performances
Born
December 8th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1939, an American drummer specialized in jazz. Gained recognition for contributions to various jazz ensembles and performances. Collaborated with prominent artists, showcasing exceptional drumming skills and creativity. Participated in numerous recordings and live performances throughout the career. Renowned for a unique style that combined technical proficiency with expressive artistry.

Continue Reading

Dariush Mehrjui

Iranian film director and producer
Born
December 8th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 84 years old

An influential Iranian director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to Iranian cinema. Produced notable works that explore social issues and cultural themes. Achieved prominence with the film 'The Cow' (1969), which is considered a landmark in Iranian film history. Emphasized the importance of realism in storytelling and the portrayal of Iranian society. Founded the film production company Khorasan Film, aimed at promoting Iranian cinema.

Continue Reading

Jerry Butler

American singer-songwriter and producer
Born
December 8th, 1939 85 years ago

A prominent figure in soul music, gained fame in the 1960s. Achieved significant success as a solo artist and as a member of The Impressions. Influenced the development of soul music with strong vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Collaborated with numerous artists and produced many hits. His work includes the classic song 'For Your Precious Love,' which helped define the sound of an era.

Continue Reading

Red Berenson

Ice hockey player and coach, Stanley Cup
Born
December 8th, 1939 85 years ago

A Canadian ice hockey player and coach, this individual played in the National Hockey League and later transitioned to coaching. A notable achievement includes winning the Stanley Cup with the Montreal Canadiens in 1965. As a coach, he spent significant time leading the University of Michigan hockey team, where he achieved substantial success over multiple decades. His tenure at Michigan saw the team win multiple championships, solidifying a legacy in collegiate hockey.

Continue Reading

Dick Bavetta

Basketball referee, officiated NBA games
Born
December 10th, 1939 85 years ago

A basketball referee who officiated in the NBA for over 39 seasons, primarily during the 1980s through 2010. Officiated over 2,600 regular-season games and numerous playoff games, including the NBA Finals. Known for a notable appearance in the 2007 NBA All-Star Game, where he tied a footrace against former player Bob Delaney, demonstrating his long-standing fitness and commitment to the profession. Retired in 2014 after a lengthy career in professional basketball officiating, contributing significantly to the sport's rules and regulations.

Continue Reading

Barry Cunliffe

Archaeologist and academic author
Born
December 10th, 1939 85 years ago

An English archaeologist and academic, contributed significantly to the understanding of Iron Age and Roman Britain. Served as a professor at the University of Oxford and authored numerous influential works on archaeology and European prehistory. Conducted extensive fieldwork and research, influencing archaeological methodology and interpretations. Was actively involved in public education regarding archaeology.

Continue Reading

Tom Hayden

American activist and politician
Born
December 11th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 77 years old

A significant figure in the 1960s counterculture, graduated from the University of Michigan and became a prominent anti-Vietnam War activist. Co-founded the Students for a Democratic Society, a major student organization that advocated for social change. Involved in the Chicago Seven trial after protesting at the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Elected to the California State Assembly, serving from 1982 to 1992. Advocated for various progressive causes, including environmental protection and social justice.

Continue Reading