What Happened This Year 1941

Born in 1941

Kim Jong-il

North Korean Supreme Leader
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2011 13 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the Supreme Leader of North Korea from 1994 until 2011. Assumed leadership following the death of Kim Il-sung, the nation's founder and his father. Oversaw the country's nuclear weapons development program, which led to increased tensions with the international community. His tenure was marked by a strong cult of personality and an emphasis on military-first policies, leading to significant military expansion.

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Elizabeth Fox-Genovese

Historian and author of 'Within the Plantation Household'
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2007 18 years ago — 66 years old

A historian and author specialized in American history, particularly the history of the South. Contributed significantly to the understanding of women's roles in antebellum society and the dynamics of the plantation system. Wrote extensively on the traditional roles of women and families in the South. Served as a professor at Emory University, influencing a generation of historians and scholars. Engaged in discussions about the implications of historical narratives on contemporary social issues.

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Paul Fentener van Vlissingen

Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2006 19 years ago — 65 years old

A businessman and philanthropist from the Netherlands, played significant roles in various companies including the successful establishment of the Van Vlissingen Group. Demonstrated a commitment to social responsibility through substantial charitable contributions, particularly in the fields of education and environmental sustainability. Involved in several initiatives that supported community development and cultural projects, showcasing the integration of business acumen and philanthropy.

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Harald Nielsen

Danish footballer and manager
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2015 10 years ago — 74 years old

Played as a forward for multiple clubs including B 1903, and had a significant tenure with the Danish national team. Managed various teams after retirement, contributing to the development of football in Denmark. Also served as a coach for the Danish national team, providing guidance during key matches and tournaments. Maintained a lasting presence in Danish football through both playing and managerial roles.

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Pamela Ann Rymer

U.S. Federal Judge and legal scholar
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2011 14 years ago — 70 years old

Graduated from University of California, Los Angeles with a Bachelor of Arts degree followed by a Juris Doctor from UCLA School of Law. Appointed to the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in 1991. Served as a judge on the panel for several significant cases, influencing legal precedents in various areas of law. Maintained a focus on issues related to civil rights, employment law, and intellectual property throughout a judicial career that spanned over two decades. Contributed scholarly articles to legal periodicals and served as a lecturer on the law.

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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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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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Rolf Skår

Norwegian engineer and inventor
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1923 102 years ago — -18 years old

An engineer specializing in construction, notable contributions included innovations in bridge engineering. Worked extensively on various projects across Norway, applying advanced techniques to improve structural integrity and sustainability. Collaborated with teams to develop efficient designs, influencing future engineering practices in the region. Integral in implementing new materials and methods during the early 20th century, contributing to the modernization of Norwegian infrastructure.

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Billy Hardwick

Bowler and PBA champion
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2013 11 years ago — 72 years old

Achieved significant success in professional bowling, earning multiple championships throughout a notable career. Secured the 1969 ABC American Bowling Congress championship, showcasing exceptional talent in the sport. Competed regularly in the Professional Bowlers Association tour, and held a prominent position in bowling history.

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