What Happened This Year 1940
Born in 1940
Gilles Villemure
Born in 1940, this athlete played as a goaltender in the National Hockey League (NHL). He played for the New York Rangers and the Chicago Blackhawks. He had a career that included participating in the 1972 Canada Cup, contributing to Canada’s success in the international hockey arena. After retiring from professional play, he also served as a coach and mentor within the sport.
Continue ReadingAnatoliy Bondarchuk
A prominent figure in athletics, achieved considerable success as a hammer throw athlete and later transitioned into coaching. Competed at the highest level, winning the gold medal in the hammer throw at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich. After retiring from competitive sports, focused on coaching, significantly contributing to athletes' training and development in the sport.
Continue ReadingGilbert Shelton
An illustrator and comic book artist, contributing significantly to the underground comic movement starting in the 1960s. Created the widely recognized comic series 'Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers' and 'Wonder Wart-Hog'. Developed a distinctive style that defined the aesthetic of counterculture comics. Participated in exhibitions showcasing underground comics.
Continue ReadingAugie Meyers
Born in 1940, this musician gained recognition as a prominent figure in the music scene. He was a founding member of The Sir Douglas Quintet, a band known for blending rock and roll with Tex-Mex influences. The group released the hit single 'She's About a Mover' in 1965, which became a classic of the era. In addition to his work with The Sir Douglas Quintet, he collaborated with various musicians throughout his career and contributed to the development of the Americana music genre. His career has spanned several decades, reflecting a dedication to musical artistry.
Continue ReadingRené Auberjonois
An American actor gained prominence through a career spanning over five decades. Notable roles included Odo in the television series 'Star Trek: Deep Space Nine' and Father Dominic in 'Benson.' Also featured in films such as 'M*A*S*H,' 'The Player,' and 'The Little Prince.' The actor garnered acclaim for versatility and distinctive voice work, contributing to numerous animated projects. Auberjonois was also a stage actor, thriving in theater productions, including 'The Glass Menagerie' and 'Coco.'
Continue ReadingKip Thorne
A prominent theoretical physicist and astrophysicist focused on gravitational physics and astrophysics. Contributions include pioneering work on the properties of black holes and the conceptual foundation for gravitational waves. Played a critical role in the LIGO project, which achieved the first direct detection of gravitational waves in 2015, confirming a major prediction of Einstein's general relativity. Thorne has also contributed to developments in gravitational wave astronomy and serves as a professor emeritus at the California Institute of Technology.
Continue ReadingConstantine II of Greece
Ruled as the King of Greece from 1964 until the abolition of the monarchy in 1973. Came to the throne after the death of his father, King Paul I. The reign was marked by political instability and a military coup in 1967, resulting in a period of exile. Returned to Greece after the fall of the military junta in 1974, but did not regain the throne. Lived in exile for the majority of his later life and made efforts to maintain a connection with the Greek Orthodox Church and his royal lineage.
Continue ReadingLudwig Schwarz
Born in 1940, an influential ecclesiastical figure appointed as the bishop of the Diocese of Linz in Austria. Schwarz played a significant role in church administration and ecumenical relations. He served as a prominent voice within the Catholic Church in Austria, contributing to discussions on contemporary social issues. In 1987, he was appointed as the bishop of Linz, where significant developments in church governance occurred during his tenure. Schwarz was involved in multiple interfaith dialogues, promoting understanding and cooperation among different religious communities. His leadership focused on both pastoral care and community engagement throughout his service.
Continue ReadingWillie John McBride
A Northern Irish rugby player played lock and captain for the British Lions during five tours from 1962 to 1974. Part of the 1971 Lions team that achieved a notable series win against New Zealand in their homeland. Joined the British Lions on tours to South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia, marking significant contributions to the sport during each campaign. Known for leadership on and off the field, was influential in shaping a strong team culture among players. Continued to be involved in rugby after retirement, contributing to coaching and mentorship roles.
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