What Happened This Year 1947

Born in 1947

Kim Simmonds

Blues-rock guitarist and songwriter
Born
December 5th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 75 years old

A Welsh blues-rock singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, gained prominence as the leader of the band Savoy Brown. Contributed significantly to the blues genre throughout the 1960s and 1970s, particularly known for the album 'Lion's Share' released in 1972. Continued to perform and record music for several decades, influencing generations of musicians within the rock and blues genres.

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Bruce Golding

Jamaican lawyer and politician
Born
December 5th, 1947 77 years ago

Served as the 8th Prime Minister of Jamaica from 2007 to 2011. Before entering politics, held various legal and political roles, including Member of Parliament. Contributed to the development of policies focused on crime reduction and economic growth during tenure as Prime Minister. Resigned from the premiership amid challenges related to law enforcement and governance.

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Tony Gregory

Irish activist and politician
Born
December 5th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 62 years old

Active in Irish politics and social justice, contributed significantly to public discourse in Dublin. Elected as a city councillor and later served as a member of the Dáil Éireann. Advocated for community issues, focusing on housing and social equality. Formed strong connections with constituents and was recognized for dedication to local concerns. Established a legacy in political activism and represented the ideals of his community throughout his career.

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Jim Plunkett

American football quarterback and radio host
Born
December 5th, 1947 77 years ago

An American football quarterback and radio host, achieved prominence in the NFL during the 1970s and 1980s. Played college football at Stanford University, earning the Heisman Trophy in 1970. Drafted in the first round of the 1971 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. Played for the Oakland Raiders from 1978 to 1986, leading the team to two Super Bowl victories in Super Bowl XV and Super Bowl XVIII. Transitioned to a successful career in sports broadcasting following retirement from professional football.

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Don Touhig

Welsh Politician and Journalist
Born
December 5th, 1947 77 years ago

Born in Wales in 1947, a career in journalism transitioned into a political role. Served as a Member of Parliament for the Labour Party from 1997 to 2010. His tenure included advocacy for public services and community issues. After leaving Parliament, he continued to engage in public discourse through various platforms.

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Miroslav Vitouš

Bassist and songwriter with Weather Report
Born
December 6th, 1947 77 years ago

Born in Czechoslovakia, a prominent bassist and composer contributed significantly to jazz music. Vitouš was a founding member of the acclaimed jazz fusion band Weather Report, which formed in 1970. The band gained international recognition for its innovative sound and style. After relocating to the United States, performed with various notable musicians and ensembles, showcasing exceptional skills on the double bass and electric bass. Released several solo albums, further solidifying a reputation in the jazz community. Throughout a career spanning decades, collaborated with a range of talented artists, enriching the genre with unique compositions and performances.

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Lawrence Cannon

Canadian politician, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Born
December 6th, 1947 77 years ago

Served as a prominent businessman and politician. Held the position of the 9th Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2006 to 2011. Contributed to various diplomatic discussions and international relations, especially during the Canadian government's involvement in foreign policy. Represented the Pontiac riding in the House of Commons for the Conservative Party.

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Anne Fine

English author, wrote 'Madame Doubtfire'
Born
December 7th, 1947 77 years ago

An English author achieved recognition for writing children's and young adult literature. Books include 'Madame Doubtfire', which became a successful film, and other notable works such as 'The Tulip Touch', which received critical acclaim. Fine served as the Children's Laureate from 2001 to 2003 and has written numerous award-winning novels that explore themes of family, identity, and social issues.

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Johnny Bench

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
December 7th, 1947 77 years ago

A prominent baseball player, Bench played as a catcher for the Cincinnati Reds from 1967 to 1983. He was instrumental in leading the Reds to two World Series championships in 1975 and 1976. Bench earned the National League Most Valuable Player award twice, in 1968 and 1970. After retiring from professional play, he transitioned to a successful career in sports broadcasting, providing commentary and analysis for various networks.

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