What Happened This Year 1943

Born in 1943

Mike Leigh

Film director and screenwriter, 'Secrets & Lies'
Born
February 20th, 1943 82 years ago

A prominent English director and screenwriter, significant contributions include a distinctive style focusing on character-driven narratives. Frequently employed improvisation techniques with actors to develop stories. Major works include the films 'Secrets & Lies', 'Vera Drake', and 'Another Year'. Received numerous accolades for work, including multiple BAFTA Awards and an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay.

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Antonio Inoki

Professional wrestler and politician
Born
February 20th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2022 2 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in professional wrestling and mixed martial arts, involvement in wrestling began in the 1960s, establishing a unique style that combined traditional wrestling techniques with martial arts. Founded the New Japan Pro-Wrestling promotion in 1972, creating a platform for many future stars. Transitioned into politics, serving as a member of the Japanese House of Councillors. Engaged in numerous high-profile exhibition matches and was instrumental in the globalization of pro wrestling.

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David Geffen

Businessman, co-founded DreamWorks
Born
February 21st, 1943 82 years ago

A businessman co-founded DreamWorks SKG in 1994, which produced notable films such as 'Saving Private Ryan' and 'Shrek.' Established Geffen Records, contributing to the music industry's development in the 1970s and 1980s. Received Grammy Awards for significant contributions to music. Played a major role in the entertainment industry through various ventures in film and music.

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Horst Köhler

Economist and 9th President of Germany
Born
February 22nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2025 0 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Poland and raised in Germany, an economist and politician served as the 9th President of Germany from 2004 to 2010. Held various significant positions, including President of the German Savings Banks Association and Director of the International Monetary Fund. Focused on economic reforms and sustainability during presidency, encountered challenges including balancing domestic and European issues.

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Dick Van Arsdale

American basketball player, All-Star
Born
February 22nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2024 0 years ago — 81 years old

Played basketball professionally in the NBA from 1965 to 1977. Spent the majority of career with the Phoenix Suns. Achieved an All-Star selection in 1970 and established a reputation as a skilled scorer and tenacious defender. After retirement, contributed to the sport as a coach and executive in the Suns' organization.

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Terry Eagleton

Philosopher and Literary Critic
Born
February 22nd, 1943 82 years ago

An English philosopher and literary critic, recognized for contributions to cultural theory and literary criticism. Worked extensively on the relationship between literature and ideology. Authored numerous influential books that analyze the role of art in society, including 'Literary Theory: An Introduction' and 'The Ideology of the Aesthetic'. Served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Lancaster and the University of Notre Dame.

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Tom Van Arsdale

American basketball player, 2-time All-Star
Born
February 22nd, 1943 82 years ago

Born in 1943, this professional basketball player played as a shooting guard in the NBA. He had a career spanning from 1965 to 1977, primarily with the Detroit Pistons and the Indiana Pacers. In his time, he was selected as an NBA All-Star twice and established himself as a prominent scorer, with a notable peak performance in the 1968-69 season. Van Arsdale also competed in the ABA before eventually returning to the NBA. Following retirement, he engaged in various off-court activities including coaching and youth development.

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Otoya Yamaguchi

Japanese assassin of Inejiro Asanuma
Born
February 22nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 17 years old

Born in 1943, this individual was involved in political activism in Japan during the 1960s. Associated with right-wing nationalist movements, engaged in acts of violence against leftist figures. In 1960, assassinated politician Inejiro Asanuma with a tanto during a televised debate. This act was widely publicized and highlighted political tensions in post-war Japan. The assassination had lasting implications for Japanese politics and the discourse surrounding political violence.

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Fred Biletnikoff

American football wide receiver, Super Bowl MVP
Born
February 23rd, 1943 82 years ago

A professional American football wide receiver and coach, achieved success primarily with the Oakland Raiders. Played as a wide receiver from 1965 to 1978, becoming a key player for the team. Earned the Super Bowl MVP award in Super Bowl XI, demonstrating exceptional skill and performance on the field. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988, solidifying a distinguished career in professional football. Transitioned to coaching after finishing a playing career, contributing to the development of future players.

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