What Happened This Year 1939

Born in 1939

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.

Continue Reading

O'tkir Sultonov

Uzbek politician, 2nd Prime Minister
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the second Prime Minister of Uzbekistan from 1995 until 1996. Played a significant role in the country's development during the post-Soviet era. Participated in the establishment of various legal frameworks to transition Uzbekistan into an independent state. Contributed to political reforms and economic policies during a critical period in the nation's history.

Continue Reading

Robert E. Kramek

Coast Guard admiral and leader
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2016 9 years ago — 77 years old

Served as an admiral in the United States Coast Guard, leading various missions and operations. Held the position of Commandant from 1994 to 1998, overseeing the service during significant events including national security and maritime safety challenges. Contributed to developments in environmental protection, drug interdiction, and emergency response operations within the maritime domain.

Continue Reading

Barney McKenna

Irish musician and banjo player
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2012 14 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.

Continue Reading

Thomas Hopko

American Orthodox priest and theologian
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2015 11 years ago — 76 years old

Ordained as a priest in the Orthodox Church, served as Dean of St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary. Contributed significantly to the dialogue between Orthodox and other Christian traditions. Authored numerous theological works including 'The Orthodox Faith' series, which explores the essential beliefs and practices of the Orthodox Church. Actively engaged in teaching and lecturing on Orthodox theology across various settings.

Continue Reading

Gordon Bilney

Dentist and Australian politician
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2012 13 years ago — 73 years old

Practiced dentistry and served as a member of the Australian House of Representatives. Represented the seat of Bowman from 1990 to 1993. Contributed to parliamentary discussions and legislation, focusing on health and education matters. Worked within the Liberal Party, promoting policies aligned with party objectives during tenure in office.

Continue Reading

Ben Ammi Ben-Israel

Religious leader, founder of group
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old

Founded the African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem, a community embracing a lifestyle based on the laws of the Torah and advocating for a return to a natural diet and a vegetarian lifestyle. This community established roots in Israel, promoting cultural and spiritual identities related to African heritage. Leadership involved significant outreach and engagement with the local population, establishing a unique blend of religious and cultural practices. Participated in various social and educational initiatives aimed at supporting community development.

Continue Reading

Gaetano Pesce

Architect & designer of organic structures
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 2024 2 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.

Continue Reading

Lee Harvey Oswald

Assassin of John F. Kennedy
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1963 62 years ago — 24 years old

An American former Marine executed for the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. Oswald fired shots from the sixth floor of the Texas School Book Depository, striking Kennedy and Texas Governor John Connally. Oswald was arrested shortly after the assassination and was charged with the murder. Two days later, while being transferred, Oswald was shot and killed by nightclub owner Jack Ruby. The Warren Commission concluded that Oswald acted alone in the assassination.

Continue Reading