What Happened This Year 1939

Born in 1939

Boris Dvornik

Croatian Actor in Film and Television
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2008 17 years ago — 69 years old

Born in Croatia, an acclaimed actor achieved prominence in the Yugoslav film industry during the 1960s and 1970s. Notable performances occurred in films like 'Bitka na Neretvi' and 'Kozara'. Dvornik also starred in popular television series, including 'Crno-bijeli svijet'. His contributions to cinema and television established a legacy within the Croatian cultural landscape.

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Basil Schott

American archbishop and church leader
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2010 15 years ago — 71 years old

An American archbishop served in the Roman Catholic Church. Schott was appointed as the Bishop of the Diocese of Pittsburgh in 1984 and later became the Archbishop of the Diocese of Pittsburgh in 1990. His tenure included efforts to strengthen the Catholic community and manage various social issues within the diocese. Schott retired in 2001, remaining active in church matters until death.

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Velibor Vasović

Footballer and manager of Red Star Belgrade
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2002 23 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent Serbian footballer and manager, contributed significantly to the sport during the mid-20th century. Played primarily as a defender, representing clubs such as Red Star Belgrade and Ajax. Achieved success in multiple domestic leagues and on the international stage. Transitioned to management after retiring from playing, continuing to influence Serbian football in a coaching capacity.

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Lino Brocka

Filipino director of 'Insiang'
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1991 34 years ago — 52 years old

A prominent Filipino director and screenwriter, contributed significantly to Philippine cinema through critically acclaimed films. Directed 'Insiang' in 1976, which is considered a landmark in Philippine filmmaking. Worked on numerous films that explored social issues, including 'Bona' and 'Jaguar'. His craft combined realism with melodrama, providing a voice to the marginalized in society. Received multiple awards for work, including the Best Director award at the 1981 Manila Film Festival and the 1982 Gawad Urian Award. Passed away in 1991, leaving a lasting legacy in the film industry.

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Jonas Trinkūnas

Lithuanian ethnologist and academic
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2014 12 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of ethnology and folklore studies in Lithuania. Provided comprehensive analyses of Lithuanian folk traditions and cultural practices. Engaged in academic research and published works that shed light on the historical and sociological aspects of Lithuanian culture. Served as a professor and mentor to many students in the field of ethnology.

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Wakachichibu Komei

Japanese sumo wrestler and champion
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent sumo wrestler who achieved the rank of komusubi. Competed in the top division of sumo and earned significant accolades throughout career. Made notable contributions to the world of sumo wrestling during tenure. Achieved a strong reputation in the sport and was regarded as a skilled competitor by peers and fans alike.

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Syd Jackson

New Zealand trade union leader and activist
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2007 18 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent trade union leader and activist, played a crucial role in advocating for workers' rights in New Zealand. Contributed to the establishment of various unions, focusing on the rights of workers and fair labor practices. Actively participated in campaigns aimed at improving workplace conditions and wages for employees across multiple sectors. Engaged in political discourse to influence legislation benefiting labor rights and social justice in the nation.

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Tzvetan Todorov

Bulgarian philosopher and cultural theorist
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
February 7th, 2017 9 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Bulgaria, a prominent philosopher and cultural theorist contributed significantly to literary theory and the philosophy of history. Specializing in the analysis of narrative forms, explored topics such as identity and cultural differences. His works often bridged literature and philosophy, providing insights into how narratives shape understanding of humanity. Published influential texts including 'The Conquest of America' and 'The Inner Enemies of Democracy', examining the interplay between cultural discourse and political frameworks. His intellectual contributions extended into discussions of ethics and humanism, providing a framework for analyzing contemporary social issues.

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John Delafose

Accordion player and Zydeco musician
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1994 31 years ago — 55 years old

An American accordion player specialized in Zydeco music. Born in Louisiana, blended traditional Cajun sounds with African influences. Released multiple albums that garnered regional and national attention. Performed extensively at festivals and events, popularizing the genre beyond its local roots. Led bands including the Lil' Band O' Gold, contributing to the growth of Zydeco's popularity.

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