What Happened This Year 1947

Born in 1947

Steven Schiff

American politician, notable Congressman
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1998 26 years ago — 51 years old

Served as a United States Congressman from New Mexico from 1995 until death in 1998. Represented the 1st congressional district and was involved in various legislative efforts, particularly in areas related to technology and defense. Championed issues pertaining to telecommunications and national security. Advocated for policies benefiting veterans and military personnel.

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Ivan Dykhovichny

Russian director, screenwriter, and filmmaker
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2009 15 years ago — 62 years old

A Russian director and screenwriter, prominent in the 1990s and early 2000s. Created a significant body of work that contributed to contemporary cinema in Russia. Gained attention for films that explored complex human emotions and relationships. Directed acclaimed projects that received recognition in various film festivals, highlighting the nuances of Russian society and culture. Maintained a distinctive style that combined realism with thought-provoking storytelling.

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Melanie Safka

Singer-songwriter and Emmy winner
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2024 1 years ago — 77 years old

An American singer-songwriter emerged in the late 1960s, particularly recognized for the hit song 'Brand New Key.' The music career included a distinctive folk style that resonated in various music festivals, especially at Woodstock in 1969. Released multiple albums throughout the 1970s, showcasing a blend of pop and folk elements. Achieved an Emmy Award for her contributions to television music. Continued to perform and release music into the new millennium, maintaining a dedicated fan base.

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Song Binbin

Chinese revolutionary leader
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2024 0 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent participant in the Chinese Cultural Revolution, played a significant role in promoting Maoist ideology among youth. Actively involved in the Red Guards movement, used influence to mobilize students across campuses. Advocated for radical changes in education and society, aligning with revolutionary leaders. Following the Cultural Revolution, engaged in political activities and held various governmental positions, contributing to the post-revolutionary period in China.

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Pepe Smith

Filipino rock musician and songwriter
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2019 6 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent figure in the Philippine rock music scene, contributed significantly to the genre through a celebrated career spanning decades. Formed the band The Dawn in the early 1980s and gained popularity with hits such as 'Tadhana' and 'Salamat.' Developed a solo career while influencing numerous artists across the country. Smith's style blended rock with local sounds, making a lasting mark on Filipino music culture.

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Mohammad Najibullah

Afghan physician and politician
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1996 28 years ago — 49 years old

Served as the seventh President of Afghanistan from 1986 until the fall of the communist regime in 1992. Prior to presidency, worked as a physician and held several key political positions within the government. Led efforts to stabilize Afghanistan during a turbulent period marked by conflict and political strife. After the fall of the communist government, faced opposition and remained active in Afghan politics until the rise of the Taliban.

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Dele Giwa

Journalist, co-founder of Newswatch
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1986 38 years ago — 39 years old

A journalist co-founded Newswatch Magazine in Nigeria. The publication gained prominence for investigative journalism and critical reporting on Nigerian politics and society. Giwa's work focused on exposing corruption and government malfeasance during a tumultuous period in the country's history. His commitment to journalistic integrity led to significant risks, ultimately resulting in his assassination by a letter bomb in 1986. The incident highlighted the dangers faced by journalists in Nigeria and catalyzed discussions on press freedom in the country.

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Jorge Obeid

Argentinian politician and governor
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2014 11 years ago — 67 years old

An engineer and politician, served as the Governor of Santa Fe Province in Argentina from 2003 to 2007. Played a significant role in provincial politics and contributed to various public policies during his tenure. Engaged in numerous political initiatives and focused on issues related to education, health care, and infrastructure development. His leadership aimed to address the challenges faced by the province and its citizens.

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Will Steffen

Chemist and climate change researcher
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2023 2 years ago — 76 years old

Contributed extensively to climate science and research. Focused on human-induced climate change and its global impacts. Served as an executive director of the Australian National University Climate Change Institute. Participated in multiple international assessments, including the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Authored numerous scientific publications regarding environmental changes and sustainability. Engaged in the integration of scientific research with policy for effective climate action.

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