What Happened This Year 1942

Born in 1942

Fred Thompson

American actor and politician
Born
August 19th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
November 1st, 2015 9 years ago — 73 years old

Started a career in acting, appearing in the film 'The Hunt for Red October' and the television series 'Law & Order'. Transitioned into politics, serving as a U.S. Senator from Tennessee from 1994 to 2003. Participated in the 2008 Republican presidential primaries. Worked as a registered lobbyist before and after the Senate tenure, and was involved in various public and legal advocacy efforts.

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Isaac Hayes

Soul singer and composer of 'Shaft'
Born
August 20th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2008 16 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1942, this American singer-songwriter and pianist gained prominence in the 1970s as a leading figure in soul music. Debuting with the album 'Hot Buttered Soul' in 1969, the work showcased a distinctive style combining orchestral arrangements and deep basslines. The song 'Theme from Shaft', which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song, solidified a place in popular culture. In addition to music, involvement in film included a notable voice role in the animated series 'South Park', voicing the character Chef. His contributions to music and film established a legacy that shaped both genres.

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Karen Uhlenbeck

Mathematician and Pioneer in Analysis
Born
August 24th, 1942 82 years ago

A mathematician contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, particularly in geometric analysis and gauge theory. Uhlenbeck's work laid foundational concepts in mathematical physics and differential geometry. Throughout a distinguished career, she held positions at renowned institutions and enhanced the understanding of curvature in geometry. Uhlenbeck was awarded the 2019 Abel Prize, recognizing her contributions to mathematics.

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Max Cleland

American politician and veteran
Born
August 24th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
November 9th, 2021 3 years ago — 79 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Georgia from 1997 to 2003. Cleland participated in the Vietnam War, where he was injured, leading to the amputation of three limbs. Elected to the Georgia State Senate in 1970, advocated for veterans' rights and health care. Also held the position of Administrator of the Veterans Administration. Cleland's career included a run for the U.S. Senate in 1996, succeeding in the election.

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Jimmy Soul

Pop-soul singer with hit single 'If You Want to Be Happy'
Born
August 24th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 46 years old

Born in 1942, this American pop-soul singer gained prominence in the 1960s. The career began with a focus on blending rhythm and blues with popular music. The most recognized work includes the hit single 'If You Want to Be Happy', which became a staple of the genre. This song reached the top of the Billboard charts, reflecting the widespread appeal of the artist's music during this era. Despite later declines in popularity, the legacy of the hit song persists in various covers and tributes, marking a significant contribution to the pop-soul genre.

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Ivan Koloff

Professional wrestler, WWE Champion
Born
August 25th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 75 years old

Originated from Canada, this professional wrestler gained prominence during the wrestling boom of the 1970s and 1980s. He held the prestigious title of WWE Champion after defeating Bruno Sammartino in 1971, ending one of the longest title reigns in history. Throughout his career, he performed under various ring names and was known for his fierce persona and signature finishing move, the Russian Sickle. Apart from his career in the ring, he also contributed to the wrestling community through mentorship and training of younger wrestlers. After retiring, he remained involved in professional wrestling, attending events and conventions.

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Nathan Deal

American politician, 82nd Governor of Georgia
Born
August 25th, 1942 82 years ago

Elected as the 82nd Governor of Georgia, served from January 2011 to January 2019. Prior to this role, served as a U.S. Congressman from 1993 to 2010 and as a state senator. Focused on education reform, economic development, and transportation infrastructure during gubernatorial tenure. Championed tax reform and fostered job creation in Georgia.

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Dennis Turner

English lawyer and politician
Born
August 26th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, contributed significantly to British politics. Served as a Member of Parliament for Wolverhampton South East from 1997 to 2005. Held the title of Baron Bilston, working in various legal and political capacities. Advocated for community issues and legislative reforms throughout the political career.

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Daryl Dragon

Musician and member of The Captain & Tennille
Born
August 27th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2019 6 years ago — 76 years old

An American musician gained fame as one half of the pop duo The Captain & Tennille. The duo's biggest hit, "Love Will Keep Us Together," topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1975, earning a Grammy Award for Record of the Year. Dragon, often referred to as 'The Captain,' played keyboard and arranged music, contributing to the duo's unique sound which blended pop and soft rock elements. The duo had several other successful singles and albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Their music was characterized by catchy melodies and harmonies, appealing to a wide audience during their peak years.

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