What Happened This Year 1947

Born in 1947

Dave Arneson

Game designer, co-created Dungeons & Dragons
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2009 16 years ago — 62 years old

A game designer specialized in tabletop role-playing games. Contributed significantly to the gaming industry by co-creating the seminal game Dungeons & Dragons alongside Gary Gygax. This game introduced innovative mechanics and storytelling elements that set the foundation for modern role-playing games. The first edition was published in 1974, capturing the imagination of countless players and influencing the development of future tabletop and video game genres. Arneson also worked on various other games and expansions, showcasing creativity in game design.

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Joseph P. McFadden

American bishop and religious leader
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the Bishop of Harrisburg from 2004 until death in 2013. Ordained as a priest in 1975, focused on pastoral care and education within the diocese. Oversaw numerous initiatives to improve the church's outreach and community services. Participated actively in various regional and national ecclesiastical events.

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Francisco Chavez

Solicitor General of the Philippines
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 66 years old

Served as Solicitor General of the Philippines, representing the government in legal matters before the Supreme Court. Played a significant role in various high-profile cases and legal reforms. Also held positions in the judiciary and contributed to public service through legal advocacy and training programs for future lawyers. Engaged in the analysis of legal policy and provided counsel on constitutional issues. Continued to influence the legal landscape in the Philippines throughout his career.

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Will Hoebee

Dutch songwriter and producer
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure in the Dutch music industry, contributed significantly to the development of the country's pop music scene. Collaborated with various artists, crafting numerous successful songs throughout the career. Served as a producer and songwriter for well-known acts and was instrumental in their commercial success. Helped shape the sound of pop music in the Netherlands during the latter part of the 20th century.

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Richard Coughlan

English drummer for Caravan
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 66 years old

Played drums for the progressive rock band Caravan, contributing to their distinctive sound in the 1970s. Participated in notable albums such as 'In the Land of Grey and Pink' and 'For Girls Who Grow Plump in the Night'. Engaged in performance tours across Europe, showcasing the band's music to a wide audience. Coughlan's style and technique influenced drumming within the genre, leaving a lasting legacy.

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Rafael Robles

Dominican-American baseball player
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1998 27 years ago — 51 years old

Played as a professional baseball outfielder. Competed in Major League Baseball primarily with the Milwaukee Braves during the 1950s. Contributed to teams through strong hitting and defensive skills. Participated in multiple seasons, showcasing talent and consistency over the course of a career.

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Malam Bacai Sanhá

Politician, President of Guinea-Bissau
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the President of Guinea-Bissau from 2009 until death in 2012. Held a significant role in the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC). Was involved in the country's independence struggle and later governance. Sanhá was instrumental in guiding the nation through a tumultuous political landscape characterized by instability and coup attempts. During presidency, focused on reconciliation and political stability.

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Duane Thomas

American football player, Super Bowl champion
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
August 4th, 2024 1 years ago — 77 years old

Played professional American football as a running back, primarily for the Dallas Cowboys. He was part of the Cowboys team that won Super Bowl VI in 1972. Thomas also had a notable college career at West Texas State University, where he was a standout player. Following his time with the Cowboys, he played for the San Diego Chargers and the Washington Redskins, contributing to each team's offensive line. His playing style and performance earned recognition in the league during his active years.

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Sonny Carter

American astronaut and soccer player
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1991 34 years ago — 44 years old

An American soccer player, physician, and astronaut, contributed to space exploration as a NASA astronaut. Played soccer professionally while practicing medicine. Participated in multiple spaceflights, including STS-33, and advanced scientific research in microgravity. Focused on medical explanations and human health in space. Lost life in a tragic accident in 1991.

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