What Happened This Year 1941

Born in 1941

Nolan Richardson

Basketball coach and national champion
Born
December 27th, 1941 83 years ago

A significant figure in college basketball, contributed to the Arkansas Razorbacks' success as a head coach. Achieved a major milestone by leading the team to the 1994 NCAA Championship title. Implemented the innovative '40 Minutes of Hell' defensive style, which transformed team play and strategy. Served as a head coach at several colleges, including the University of Texas at El Paso, where the team won the 1987 NCAA Championship.

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Ray Thomas

Singer-songwriter and flute player
Born
December 29th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 77 years old

An English musician started performing in the early 1960s. Co-founded the rock band The Moody Blues, contributing significantly as a singer, songwriter, and flute player. Released the acclaimed album 'Days of Future Passed' in 1967, which blended rock with classical music elements. Continued to perform with The Moody Blues for several decades, highlighting the band’s signature sound characterized by lush harmonies and orchestral arrangements.

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Mel Renfro

Football player; Pro Football Hall of Famer
Born
December 30th, 1941 83 years ago

Renfro played as a cornerback and safety in the National Football League for the Dallas Cowboys from 1964 to 1977. During this time, he contributed to the team winning two Super Bowl championships, Super Bowl VI and Super Bowl XII. Renfro was selected to the Pro Bowl multiple times and earned All-Pro honors during his career. Following retirement, he served as a coach and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1996.

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Sir Alex Ferguson

Football manager, won numerous titles
Born
December 31st, 1941 83 years ago

A prominent football manager, achieved remarkable success throughout a lengthy career. Managed Aberdeen from 1978 to 1986, winning three Scottish league titles and the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup in 1983. Later, took charge of Manchester United from 1986 to 2013, leading the team to 13 Premier League titles, five FA Cups, and two UEFA Champions League titles, among numerous other domestic and international honors. Renowned for his leadership skills and ability to develop young talent, left a lasting legacy in the sport.

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Gabrielle Roth

Dancer and author of 'Sweat Your Prayers'
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 2012 12 years ago — 71 years old

One of the prominent figures in the field of movement therapy, developed a unique approach to dance as a form of expression and healing. Founded the 5Rhythms dance practice, which emphasizes the connection between body and spirit through movement. Authored several books, including 'Sweat Your Prayers' and 'Maps to Ecstasy', detailing techniques for personal transformation through dance and rhythm. Organized numerous workshops and retreats that attracted participants worldwide, promoting the understanding of dance as a spiritual practice.

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Dale Armstrong

Canadian race car driver and crew chief
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2014 10 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in motorsports, this individual was a successful race car driver and later transitioned to a successful role as a crew chief. Competed in various racing series, including the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). Achieved multiple wins in the Top Fuel category and contributed to the development of winning race cars. As a crew chief, led teams to significant victories in drag racing.

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Graham Staines

Missionary and translator in India
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1999 26 years ago — 58 years old

A missionary and translator focused on serving leprosy patients in India. Spent over three decades providing medical care and advocating for marginalized communities. Established a leprosy hospital and worked alongside local organizations to improve healthcare access. Contributed to translation work, helping to bridge communication gaps within underserved populations. His life and service ended tragically in 1999.

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Buddy Cianci

American politician and mayor of Providence
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2016 9 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the mayor of Providence, Rhode Island, for over 21 years in two non-consecutive terms. Led major urban redevelopment projects and was a significant figure in local politics. Indicted for racketeering in 2002 and later convicted. Returned to political commentary and hosted a radio show after leaving office. A recognizable personality in Rhodie's political landscape, managed to maintain a loyal following despite legal troubles.

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Ab Fafié

Football manager and player from the Netherlands
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
November 27th, 2012 12 years ago — 71 years old

A professional footballer and manager, contributed to the sport primarily in the Netherlands. Played as a forward for several clubs, including Ajax and FC Utrecht. Transitioned into management, leading teams at various levels. His career included significant tenures in both player and coaching roles, shaping the talents of many young players and teams during his managerial years.

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