What Happened This Year 1947

Born in 1947

Claudia J. Kennedy

American General and military leader
Born
July 14th, 1947 77 years ago

Graduated from the University of Tennessee and joined the United States Army, rising to the rank of Major General. Served as the first woman to hold the position of Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence. Played a crucial role in shaping military intelligence policy. Contributed to discussions on diversity and women's roles in the military throughout her career.

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Navin Ramgoolam

Physician and 3rd Prime Minister of Mauritius
Born
July 14th, 1947 77 years ago

A physician by training, served as the 3rd Prime Minister of Mauritius from 1995 to 2000 and again from 2005 to 2014. Played a significant role in the country's political landscape, leading the Labor Party and implementing various social and economic reforms during time in office. Oversaw the strengthening of public health policies and initiatives. Contributed to international relations, advocating for issues affecting small island nations.

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Lydia Davis

Short story writer and essayist
Born
July 15th, 1947 77 years ago

Acclaimed as an influential short story writer, novelist, and essayist. Davis published numerous collections of short stories, including the highly regarded 'Break It Down' and 'The End of Story'. A distinctive style marked by precision and brevity characterized her work. Additionally, produced a celebrated translation of Marcel Proust's 'Swann's Way'. Recipient of the National Book Award for Fiction and the Man Booker International Prize, highlighting contributions to literature. Continues to teach writing and engage in literary circles.

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Pridiyathorn Devakula

Thai politician and Minister of Finance
Born
July 15th, 1947 77 years ago

Served as Thailand's Minister of Finance from 2004 to 2006 and played a significant role in managing the country's economic policy during that period. As an economist, worked on various initiatives aimed at stimulating economic growth and enhancing fiscal stability. Involved in the implementation of policies that influenced the Thai economy and served in numerous governmental roles throughout a lengthy career in public service.

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Roky Erickson

Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
July 15th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 72 years old

Active in the music scene from the 1960s, significant contributions included founding the psychedelic rock band 13th Floor Elevators. Helped define the genre with the hit song "You're Gonna Miss Me." After a period of mental health struggles, continued to create solo work that explored themes of horror and existentialism. Released several albums, including 'The Evil One' and 'True Love Cast Out All Evil,' showcasing a unique blend of rock, punk, and gothic influences. Recognized for blending personal experiences and storytelling in music.

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Alexis Herman

23rd United States Secretary of Labor
Born
July 16th, 1947 77 years ago

A businesswoman and politician served as the 23rd United States Secretary of Labor from 1997 to 2001 under President Bill Clinton. In this role, focused on workforce development and labor laws. Prior to this position, held various key leadership roles, including Under Secretary of Labor. Was involved in multiple initiatives aimed at improving job training and employment opportunities, particularly for marginalized groups. Also worked with the Democratic National Committee and served as Chair of the President's Race Initiative.

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Assata Shakur

Activist and former member of the Black Panthers
Born
July 16th, 1947 77 years ago

Born in 1947, she became involved in civil rights activism and later joined the Black Panther Party and the Black Liberation Army. Accused of multiple crimes, including a 1973 shootout with police that resulted in the death of a state trooper, she was convicted in a highly publicized trial but maintained her innocence. After serving several years in prison, she escaped to Cuba, where she was granted political asylum. Since then, she has become a prominent figure in discussions surrounding race, justice, and political imprisonment in the United States.

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Queen Consort of the United Kingdom

Queen Consort during Charles III reign
Born
July 17th, 1947 77 years ago

Born in 1947, served as a member of the British royal family. Married Charles, Prince of Wales, in 2005 and became Queen Consort upon his ascension to the throne in 2022. Engaged in numerous charitable activities, supporting initiatives related to health, literacy, and animal welfare. Advocated for various social causes, often working alongside charitable organizations. Participated in official state duties, including national ceremonies and events.

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Wolfgang Flür

Musician and drummer (Kraftwerk)
Born
July 17th, 1947 77 years ago

Born in 1947, this musician gained recognition as a drummer and electronic music pioneer. Joined Kraftwerk in the early 1970s, contributing to the band's distinctive sound, characterized by its innovative use of technology and synthesizers. Involved in the creation of several influential albums, blending pop and avant-garde music. Departed from Kraftwerk in 1987 but continued to influence electronic music.

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