What Happened This Year 1944

Born in 1944

Gerard Vianen

Dutch cyclist, Tour de France participant
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old

A competitive cyclist, participated in the Tour de France and other major cycling events. Achieved significant recognition in the professional cycling community during the 1970s. Competed for various teams, gaining experience and expertise in road racing disciplines. Contributed to the sport through participation in prestigious international races, showcasing talent and dedication to cycling.

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Aboubacar Somparé

Guinean politician and leader
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2017 8 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a prominent figure in Guinea's political landscape during the early 2000s. Held the position of Minister of Justice and contributed to the country's legal reforms. Worked within the Democratic Party of Guinea and advocated for democratic governance. Played a role in the 2010 presidential elections and participated in various political dialogues aimed at national progress.

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Salmaan Taseer

Governor of Punjab, Pakistan
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2011 14 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the 26th Governor of Punjab from 2008 until assassination in 2011. Taseer was a prominent businessman and politician. He actively participated in the Pakistan People's Party and was an advocate for liberalization and minority rights. He played a significant role in various economic initiatives and remained vocal against extremism. Taseer's critique of blasphemy laws sparked substantial debate in Pakistan, resulting in both support and opposition from various sectors of society.

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Jackie Lomax

English singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 69 years old

An English singer-songwriter and guitarist emerged in the 1960s music scene. Featured on The Beatles' label, Apple Records, released the album 'Is This What You Wanted' in 1971. Collaborated with prominent musicians, contributing to the development of rock music in that era. His song 'Sour Milk Sea' gained recognition and was covered by various artists. Additionally, Lomax performed with The Whole World, a band known for its connection to progressive rock.

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Tom Kelley

Baseball player and manager
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2015 10 years ago — 71 years old

A baseball player and manager, had a significant career in Major League Baseball. Played for teams including the Philadelphia Athletics and the Washington Senators. Transitioned to a managerial role and led teams such as the St. Louis Cardinals. Contributed to the sport for several decades, influencing players and coaching methods.

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Baby Huey

Singer-songwriter and Big Pop Blues artist
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1970 55 years ago — 26 years old

A prominent figure in the Chicago soul music scene, this artist gained recognition for a powerful baritone voice and dynamic performances. Released the album 'Baby Huey & the Baby Sitters' in 1971, which featured a mix of soul, funk, and rock influences. Despite a short career, the music continues to influence subsequent generations of artists. The artist passed away at a young age, yet the recordings remain celebrated within the genre.

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Gerrit Komrij

Dutch author and poet, acclaimed playwright
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 68 years old

An influential figure in Dutch literature, contributions included poetry, novels, and plays. Published various collections that showcased a mastery of language and form. Won multiple literary awards, including the prestigious Zilveren Griffel for children's literature. Also served as a prominent literary critic and essayist, engaging in discourse on the state of the arts and culture in the Netherlands.

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Lydia Yu-Jose

Filipino political scientist and academic
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of political science and participated in various academic initiatives throughout the career. Focused on issues related to governance, democratization, and political participation in the Philippines. Served as an educator, mentoring numerous students and promoting research in political science. Authored several influential works that explored the political landscape of the Philippines and Southeast Asia, enhancing the understanding of the region's complexities.

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Mel Farr

American football player, businessman
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 71 years old

Played as a running back in the National Football League from 1967 to 1970. Spent the majority of the playing career with the Detroit Lions. Transitioned to a successful business career after retiring from sports. Developed a reputation for entrepreneurship in the automotive industry.

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