What Happened This Year 1945
Born in 1945
Nick Simper
A bass guitarist, prominent in the late 1960s. Co-founded the rock band Deep Purple in 1968, contributing to their first three albums, including the influential 'Shades of Deep Purple'. Left the band in 1969 and later formed another group, Warhorse, which released a self-titled album. Continued to perform with various bands and participated in reunion events.
Continue ReadingKen Holtzman
A professional baseball player who pitched primarily for the Chicago Cubs and the Oakland Athletics. Achieved significant success during the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to championship teams. Holtzman played a key role in two World Series victories, showcasing exceptional skill as a left-handed pitcher. His successful career included multiple seasons with double-digit wins and an All-Star selection that underscored his talents on the mound.
Continue ReadingGerd Müller
Born in 1945, this football player gained recognition as one of the greatest strikers in the history of the sport. He played primarily for Bayern Munich, where he became the club's all-time leading scorer. As a member of the West Germany national team, he contributed to the team winning the 1974 FIFA World Cup and secured the Golden Boot in the 1970 World Cup. His prolific goal-scoring earned numerous accolades and solidified a legendary status in football.
Continue ReadingAleka Papariga
An accountant and politician, held the position of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Greece from 1991 to 2013. Participated in the Greek Parliament, representing the party and advocating for leftist policies. Led the party during significant political changes in Greece, contributing to the shaping of the leftist political landscape in the country. Engaged in various political activities throughout her career, focusing on social justice and workers' rights.
Continue ReadingPeter Pace
Born in 1945, Pace served in the United States Marine Corps, eventually achieving the rank of General. He held the position of 16th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 2005 to 2007, making significant military decisions during the Iraq War. His military career spanned over 40 years, including commanding troops in various operations and theaters of war. Pace was the first Marine to serve as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, emphasizing his influential role in American military policy during his tenure.
Continue ReadingSvetlana Tširkova-Lozovaja
A prominent fencer and coach with significant contributions to the sport. Competed in women's individual foil and earned multiple accolades throughout a successful career. Transitioned into coaching and played a pivotal role in mentoring aspiring fencers, contributing to the development of the Russian fencing program. Demonstrated a commitment to fostering athletic talent and promoting competitive excellence.
Continue ReadingJoe Niekro
A prominent baseball pitcher, played primarily for the Houston Astros and the Detroit Tigers. Competed in Major League Baseball from 1967 to 1988. Selected as an All-Star in 1979 and gained recognition for his effective knuckleball pitch. Achieved over 200 career wins, establishing himself as a reliable starter. Concluded professional career after playing for the Atlanta Braves.
Continue ReadingJoseph James DeAngelo
Born in 1945, this individual gained notoriety as a serial killer and former police officer. Over several years, committed multiple murders, rapes, and home invasions across California during the 1970s and 1980s. Gained infamy under various monikers, including the Golden State Killer and the East Area Rapist. In 2018, arrested after DNA evidence linked to numerous cold cases led to identification. Following a lengthy court process, pled guilty in 2020 to 13 counts of first-degree murder and additional charges, receiving multiple life sentences without the possibility of parole.
Continue ReadingVincent Nichols
Served as the Archbishop of Westminster starting in 2014, significant figure in the English Catholic Church. Ordained in 1975, worked in various roles including Bishop of Bishop Auckland from 2001 to 2004 and Archbishop of Birmingham from 2000 to 2009. Engaged in interfaith dialogue, focusing on social justice and the welfare of vulnerable populations. Contributed to public discussions on topics such as morality in politics and the role of faith in modern society.
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