What Happened This Year 1939

Born in 1939

Jimmy Stewart

Baseball player and manager
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
November 24th, 2012 13 years ago — 73 years old

An American baseball player and manager, primarily associated with Major League Baseball teams. Played as a second baseman and shortstop during a career spanning several decades. Served as a manager in the minor leagues and was active in various coaching roles after retiring from playing. Contributed to teams with both his on-field skills and by developing future players through managerial positions.

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Miltiadis Evert

Greek lawyer and Mayor of Athens
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2011 15 years ago — 72 years old

A lawyer by training, served as the 69th Mayor of Athens from 1994 to 1998. Led the municipal government focusing on urban development and public services. Held various positions within the New Democracy party, eventually serving as the party leader. Elected as a member of parliament multiple times, contributing to national policies and governance during tenures. Engaged in numerous initiatives aimed at improving the city's infrastructure and cultural heritage.

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Mohammad Baqir al-Hakim

Iraqi politician and religious leader
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2003 22 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent Iraqi politician and religious leader, played a significant role in post-Saddam Iraq. Founded the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI), which aimed to establish a government based on Islamic principles following the fall of Saddam Hussein. Actively participated in shaping Iraq's political landscape, advocating for Shia representation and influence within the government. Influenced the formation of Iraq's new constitution and highlighted the importance of Shiite rights in post-war Iraq. Assassinated in 2003 in a bombing in Najaf, his death left a notable void in Iraqi politics.

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Jorge Mas Canosa

Cuban-American businessman and activist
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 1997 28 years ago — 58 years old

An influential Cuban-American businessman focused on promoting democracy in Cuba. Played a significant role in founding the Cuban-American National Foundation in 1981, which aimed to advance the cause of Cuban liberty. Engaged in various business ventures throughout his life, establishing a substantial presence in Miami's business community. Advocated for U.S. policies that supported anti-communist movements in Cuba, including countering the regime of Fidel Castro. His leadership in the Cuban-American community helped unite efforts for Cuban freedom and influenced U.S. relations with Cuba during the late 20th century.

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Ulises Estrella

Ecuadorian poet and academic
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent Ecuadorian poet and academic focused on literature and education. Contributed significantly to Ecuadorian poetry through various publications and teachings. Participated in literary movements and collaborated with other poets and intellectuals in the region. Engaged in academic discourse, promoting literature and cultural studies within Ecuadorian universities.

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Skip Caray

American sportscaster famous for baseball
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2008 17 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent sportscaster, recognized for providing commentary on Major League Baseball, particularly for the Atlanta Braves. Spent over three decades with the Braves, serving as the team's lead play-by-play announcer. Partnered with various analysts and commentators, contributing to the team’s broadcast during both regular-season games and playoff series. Received numerous accolades for broadcasting excellence and was admired for a distinctive voice and engaging storytelling style. His work on Braves broadcasts contributed to the team’s growing popularity in the late 20th century.

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Mohammad Sarengat

Indonesian sprinter, 1976 Olympic participant
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old

Competed in sprinting events, representing Indonesia. Participated in the 1976 Summer Olympics held in Montreal, Canada. Achieved success in various competitions throughout career, earning recognition within the sport. Significant contributions to Indonesian athletics made during competitive tenure.

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Yuko Tojo

Japanese activist and politician
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old

An influential political figure in Japan, played a significant role in advocating for human rights and environmental issues. Served as a member of the House of Representatives, where engaged in legislative activities focused on social justice. Founded and led numerous initiatives aimed at improving public welfare. Actively participated in various non-profit organizations to promote education and awareness on critical issues.

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David Groh

Actor in 'Ocean's 11' and 'The Love Boat'
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 69 years old

An American actor featured prominently in television and film. Achieved recognition for a range of roles across various genres. Gained popularity through appearances in series such as 'The Love Boat' and 'M*A*S*H'. Played significant roles in several films, including 'Ocean's 11'. His career spanned multiple decades, contributing to both comedic and dramatic storytelling on screen.

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