What Happened This Year 1940

Born in 1940

Brian Labone

English footballer and Everton legend
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
April 24th, 2006 19 years ago — 66 years old

This English footballer played as a central defender for Everton Football Club from 1958 to 1971. He made over 400 appearances for the club and was an integral part of the team that won the First Division title in 1963. Labone also represented the national team, earning 6 caps. His leadership and defensive skills were crucial in establishing Everton as one of the top clubs in England during the 1960s. After retiring from professional football, he became involved in coaching and was a vocal advocate for the game until his passing.

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Augusto Martelli

Italian composer and conductor
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 2014 10 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent composer and conductor, contributions to the Italian music scene were significant. Worked on various musical projects, including film scores and television programs. Collaborated with numerous artists throughout the career. His work emphasized orchestral arrangements and the integration of pop and classical music elements. Involved in productions that showcased the versatility of orchestral music across genres.

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Käty van der Mije-Nicolau

Chess player; Women's World Champion
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2013 11 years ago — 73 years old

Achieved prominence in international chess as a competitor. Won the Women's World Chess Championship in 1974, representing Romania. Contributed to chess not only through competitive play but also in the promotion and development of the game in various countries. Participated in multiple European and World championships throughout the career, facing off against some of the best players of the time.

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Femi Robinson

Nigerian actor and playwright
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 75 years old

An influential figure in Nigerian theater and film, contributions spanned acting and playwriting. Starred in the film 'Fried Fish' and the television series 'Village Headmaster'. Worked extensively in the cultural scene, promoting indigenous stories and narratives through performances and productions. Founded various theater groups enhancing the artistic landscape in Nigeria. Played a significant role in the renaissance of Yoruba culture through drama.

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Jonathan Hardy

Actor and screenwriter from New Zealand-Australia
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
July 30th, 2012 13 years ago — 72 years old

An actor and screenwriter, this individual became prominent in the entertainment industry through a range of performances. Notable works include the role of Rabbit in the 'Bad Taste' movie directed by Peter Jackson. His contributions extended to writing, with significant involvement in television series. His career spanned several decades, with a focus on both film and theater, achieving recognition in various performances.

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Phil Walden

Record producer and manager, co-founder of Capricorn Records
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2006 19 years ago — 66 years old

A record producer and manager co-founded Capricorn Records, based in Macon, Georgia. This label became influential in the southern rock genre and represented artists such as the Allman Brothers Band and Marshall Tucker Band. Walden played a significant role in the careers of many musicians throughout the 1970s. He worked closely with prominent artists, fostering their careers and helping shape the music industry landscape during that era. In addition to running Capricorn Records, he produced numerous albums and guided the creative direction of various projects, contributing to the evolution of rock music during his tenure.

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John J. McGinty III

American captain, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old

Served as an Army captain during the Vietnam War. For extraordinary heroism in action on June 18, 1966, received the Medal of Honor. Led a reconnaissance platoon that engaged enemy forces, exhibiting exceptional bravery. After military service, engaged in community activities and veteran support.

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Lei Feng

Chinese soldier and philanthropic worker
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1962 62 years ago — 22 years old

Served as a soldier in the People's Liberation Army. Gained recognition for a diary that documented dedication to selflessness and service to the people. Demonstrated exemplary behavior in various acts of kindness and support for fellow soldiers and civilians. Became a symbol of loyalty and devotion in Chinese culture, particularly after untimely death in a traffic accident.

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Charles E. M. Pearce

Mathematician and academic
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
June 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 72 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, particularly in statistics and decision theory. Authored several influential papers and textbooks throughout an academic career that spanned decades. Worked at various universities, impacting the education of many students in mathematics and related fields. Recognized for research contributions to Bayesian statistics and statistical modeling. Helped advance mathematical methods and their applications across different disciplines.

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