What Happened This Year 1939

Born in 1939

John Amos

American actor, playwright, and producer
Born
December 27th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2024 0 years ago — 84 years old

An accomplished actor, Amos gained recognition for roles in television series and film. Significant work includes a lead role in the sitcom 'Good Times', where he portrayed James Evans Sr. and contributed to addressing social issues of the time. Additionally, Amos featured in the film 'Coming to America' as Cleo McDowell, further establishing presence in the entertainment industry. His contributions extended beyond acting as Amos also engaged in writing and producing projects that highlighted various narratives.

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Philip Anschutz

Businessman and entertainment mogul
Born
December 28th, 1939 85 years ago

Founded Anschutz Entertainment Group, a prominent sports and entertainment company. The group operates major venues including the Staples Center in Los Angeles and owns sports teams such as the LA Kings in the NHL and the Denver Nuggets in the NBA. Pursued various investment opportunities across different sectors including telecommunications and real estate. Engaged in philanthropy, particularly in the areas of education, and has supported numerous cultural efforts through the Anschutz Foundation.

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Frank McLintock

Scottish footballer and manager, Arsenal captain
Born
December 28th, 1939 85 years ago

A Scottish footballer and manager who played as a center-back. Played primarily for Arsenal, making significant contributions to the team's success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Captained Arsenal to win the First Division in 1970 and the FA Cup in 1971. Transitioned to management after retirement, leading various clubs including QPR and Brentford. His leadership on and off the pitch has been well-regarded in the football community.

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Felix Pappalardi

American producer and musician, Mountain
Born
December 30th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1983 42 years ago — 43 years old

A singer-songwriter, bass player, and producer, played a key role as a member of the rock band Mountain. Contributed to the band's legacy through hit songs and dynamic performances. Produced groundbreaking albums and collaborated with various artists throughout the career. Served as a producer for influential acts and was involved in shaping the sound of the era.

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Glenda Adams

Australian author and academic
Born
December 30th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2007 18 years ago — 67 years old

An Australian author and academic contributed significantly to literature with a focus on modernist themes and the complexities of human relationships. Wrote critically acclaimed novels, essays, and short stories. Notable works include the novels 'Dancing on Coral' and 'The Acolyte', along with various scholarly articles analyzing literature and culture. Held academic positions that influenced literary scholarship, dedicating efforts to teaching and writing throughout a lengthy career.

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Willye White

American long jumper and runner
Born
December 31st, 1939 85 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2007 18 years ago — 67 years old

Competed in the Olympics in both track and field events, achieving notable success as a long jumper. Participated in five different Olympic Games from 1956 to 1972, securing a silver medal in long jump in 1964. Raced in various national and international competitions, earning recognition for athletic prowess and skill. Contributed to the development of future generations of athletes through coaching.

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João Bernardo Vieira

Politician, President of Guinea-Bissau
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2009 16 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the President of Guinea-Bissau from 1980 to 1999 and then again from 2005 until assassination in 2009. Vieira rose to power following a military coup and was instrumental in the country's early years of independence. Leadership marked by ongoing political instability and economic challenges.

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Houston Antwine

American football player, NFL All-Pro
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2011 13 years ago — 72 years old

Played as a defensive tackle in the National Football League. Spent the majority of a career with the Boston Patriots and was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1963. Earned a reputation for his strong defensive skills on the field, contributing significantly to the team's performance during the 1960s.

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Garrick Utley

American journalist and news anchor
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old

Started a career in journalism in the 1960s, contributing to significant news outlets. Served as a foreign correspondent for NBC News during crucial global events like the Vietnam War. Anchored weekend editions of NBC Nightly News and played a pivotal role in the launch of CNN in 1980. Later, worked with PBS and contributed to various news programs, offering insights on international relations and media ethics. Continued to engage in journalism until retirement, influencing generations of news reporting.

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