What Happened This Year 1939

Born in 1939

Helmut Haller

German footballer and coach, World Cup star
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
October 11th, 2012 13 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent German footballer and coach, played as a forward and made significant contributions to the national team. Represented Germany in the 1966 FIFA World Cup, where scored two goals in the final against England. Was part of the team that secured victory in the 1974 FIFA World Cup. Transitioned to a coaching career after retiring from playing, guiding various clubs in Germany and other countries.

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Barney McKenna

Irish musician and banjo player
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 73 years old

Originally from Dublin, a prominent figure in Irish traditional music, playing the banjo and tenor banjo. Co-founded the famous folk group The Dubliners in 1962, which contributed significantly to the global popularity of Irish folk music. Performed for decades, showcasing unique instrumentation and storytelling in songs. Contributed to numerous albums and appeared in various television and festival events, promoting Irish cultural heritage. His work influenced many musicians in the genre, and he continued to perform until his passing in 2012.

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Gaetano Pesce

Architect & designer of organic structures
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 2024 1 years ago — 85 years old

An Italian architect and designer contributed significantly to the world of contemporary design and architecture. Pesce is associated with the Italian Radical Design movement, emphasizing bold colors and unconventional forms. His works often integrated functional design with artistic expression, leading to innovative furniture and architectural pieces. Notable projects include the landmark "UP" series and the colorful installations at MoMA. Pesce's dedication to exploring sociopolitical themes through design earned international recognition.

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Santiago Rosario

Baseball player and coach
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old

A Puerto Rican-American baseball player and coach, contributed significantly to the sport during the 20th century. Played for multiple Minor League teams and served as a coach after his playing career. Instrumental in the development of players and worked within various baseball organizations, enhancing training and skill development for future athletes.

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Herb Trimpe

Comic book artist, notable for Wolverine
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
April 13th, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old

An American author and illustrator, instrumental in the comic book industry, provided iconic illustrations for several beloved characters. Significant contributions included work on 'The Incredible Hulk' and 'Wolverine', helping to shape the visual representation of these figures. Also developed new characters and storylines, achieving recognition during a career spanning over four decades.

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Chögyam Trungpa

Tibetan guru and founder of Shambhala
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1987 38 years ago — 48 years old

A prominent figure in Buddhism, established a lineage of Tibetan teachings in the West. Founded the Naropa Institute in Colorado, a Buddhist-inspired university that emphasizes contemplative education. Authored several influential books on Buddhism and meditation, contributing to the spread of Tibetan Buddhism outside Asia. Introduced the concept of Shambhala, which emphasizes the importance of creating a compassionate society. His teachings integrated Western philosophy and psychology with traditional Buddhist practices.

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Jerry Ziesmer

Assistant Director and Production Manager
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2021 4 years ago — 82 years old

An assistant director and production manager contributed to numerous film and television projects. Worked on several renowned productions including 'The Shawshank Redemption' and 'The Green Mile'. Occasionally acted in various projects, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry. The career spanned several decades, with involvement in multiple aspects of film production.

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Andrew Peacock

Australian politician and leader
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2021 4 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent Australian politician, served as a member of the Liberal Party. Held significant positions including Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Opposition. Represented the Division of Flinders in the House of Representatives from 1966 to 1983 and again from 1990 to 1994. Played a key role in Australian politics throughout the late 20th century, contributing to various policy discussions and party strategies.

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Ivan Doig

American author and journalist, 'This House of Sky'
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent American author and journalist, this individual wrote extensively about the American West. The writing career began in journalism and transitioned into fiction. Achievements include a series of novels that depict life in Montana, emphasizing the landscape and culture of the region. Exploring themes of family and heritage, these works resonate with readers through their vivid storytelling and lyrical prose.

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