What Happened This Year 1945

Born in 1945

Matti Wuori

Finnish lawyer and politician
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
October 15th, 2005 19 years ago — 60 years old

Served as a prominent figure in Finnish politics and law, contributing to the legal landscape of Finland. Held multiple significant positions in government throughout a career that spanned several decades. Actively participated in discussions and legislative processes that shaped Finnish law and policy. Also engaged in political discourse and advocacy related to various social issues.

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Tom Shaw

American bishop of Episcopal Church
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2014 10 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the bishop of the Episcopal Church and held significant leadership roles within the church's community. Worked on various initiatives related to social justice, education, and community service. Ordained in 1994, led the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts from 2004 until retirement. Focused on enhancing church outreach and fostering dialogue within the community. Involved in ecumenical and interfaith efforts to promote understanding and cooperation among different religious groups.

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Ginés González García

Argentine politician and physician
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2024 0 years ago — 79 years old

Graduated from medical school and specialized in public health. Held significant positions in the Argentine government, including Minister of Health. Contributed to healthcare policies and reforms aimed at improving access to medical services. Involved in the management of public health issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic response in Argentina. His tenure focused on strengthening healthcare infrastructure.

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Gamal El-Ghitani

Egyptian journalist and author of 'Zayni Barakat'
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2015 9 years ago — 70 years old

An Egyptian author and journalist, contributed significantly to contemporary Arabic literature. El-Ghitani gained prominence through a blend of journalism and fiction, reflecting on Egyptian society and culture. His literary works often showcased a deep understanding of historical and social contexts, with a focus on the events that shaped modern Egypt. Among his notable works, 'Zayni Barakat' stands out as a reflective narrative on Egypt's political landscape. Throughout his career, played a key role in various cultural and literary movements within Egypt, contributing to the discourse through both fiction and journalism.

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Narendra Dabholkar

Indian author and rationalist activist
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 11 years ago — 68 years old

An Indian author and activist focused on rationalism and social reform. Founded the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti, an organization combating superstition and promoting scientific thinking. Wrote extensively on the topics of atheism and rationalism. Authored several books addressing superstition, including 'The Myth of God' and 'Crisis of Faith'. Recognized for vigorous advocacy against black magic and fraudulent practices, leading campaigns to educate the public on rational thought and skepticism.

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Gene Upshaw

American football player and executive
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2008 16 years ago — 63 years old

A professional American football player, played as a guard for the Oakland Raiders in the National Football League (NFL) from 1967 to 1981. Contributed to the team's victory in Super Bowl XI, Super Bowl XV, and Super Bowl XVIII. After retirement, served as the executive director of the NFL Players Association, advocating for players' rights and welfare throughout the league. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987, recognized for exceptional performance and leadership on and off the field.

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Elis Regina

Brazilian soprano and bossa nova icon
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1982 43 years ago — 37 years old

Celebrated as one of Brazil's greatest singers, a prominent figure in the bossa nova genre. Gained fame in the 1960s for powerful performances and distinctive voice. Collaborated with several influential musicians, leaving a significant mark on Brazilian music. Released albums that became classics, reaching broad audiences within Brazil and internationally. Achieved recognition for emotional depth and technical skill in her interpretations. Continued to inspire generations of artists even after passing away at a young age.

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Slobodan Praljak

Croatian general and military leader
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2017 7 years ago — 72 years old

Served as a general in the Croatian Army during the Croatian War of Independence. Held the position of Commander of the Herzeg-Bosnia military force. Engaged in various military operations during the conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Later became a political figure, serving as a member of the Croatian Parliament. Gained international attention during a war crimes trial at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), where a conviction led to a dramatic courtroom event.

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Shirley Walker

American composer and conductor for film
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2006 18 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent composer and conductor, contributions to film scoring included work on various iconic projects. Walker composed music for 'Batman: The Animated Series' and 'Justice League'. Walker served as the first female composer to score for major animated television series, breaking gender barriers in the industry. Additionally, contributions were made to films such as 'The Flash' and 'Superman: The Animated Series'.

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