What Happened This Year 1945

Born in 1945

Shulamith Firestone

Feminist author and activist
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2012 13 years ago — 67 years old

An influential figure in the feminist movement, produced significant theoretical works focusing on women's liberation. Published major text titled 'The Dialectic of Sex' in 1970, which critiqued patriarchy and proposed revolutionary changes to gender roles. Engaged in organizing efforts within feminist groups and was a founding member of the feminist group the New York Radical Women. Advocated for issues related to women's rights and reproductive freedom throughout her career.

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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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H. S. Dillon

Indonesian politician and human rights defender
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2019 6 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a prominent Indonesian politician with a focus on human rights advocacy. Engaged actively in promoting democratic governance and civil liberties. Contributed significantly to discussions and initiatives surrounding legal reforms and social justice in Indonesia. Played a pivotal role in various organizations aimed at protecting the rights of marginalized communities.

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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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Jackie Brookner

Sculptor and educator, notable work in public art
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
May 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent American sculptor and educator, this individual created large-scale installations that often integrated environmental themes and community engagement. Studied at Harvard University and received a Master of Fine Arts from the University of California, Los Angeles. Worked extensively in materials such as concrete and bronze, and designed public artworks that were installed in various national and international locations. Taught sculpture at institutions including the School of Visual Arts in New York City, influencing a generation of artists through education and mentorship.

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Narendra Dabholkar

Indian author and rationalist activist
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 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 17 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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