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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Nirad Mohapatra

Indian director, producer, and screenwriter
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 68 years old

Contributed significantly to Odia cinema as a director, producer, and screenwriter. Directed critically acclaimed films that highlighted socio-political themes. Achieved recognition within regional film circles in India. Played a key role in promoting literature through film adaptations and storytelling. Collaborated with various actors and filmmakers to enhance the quality of Odia films.

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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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Wayne Allwine

Voice actor, voice of Mickey Mouse
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2009 15 years ago — 62 years old

A voice actor and sound effects editor, well recognized for voicing the character Mickey Mouse from 1977 until 2009. Played a significant role in various Disney projects, contributing to animated films and theme parks. Worked extensively in sound design and Foley artistry, applying expertise in creating realistic audio for film. Allwine's work became synonymous with the beloved character, with performances spanning decades.

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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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Teel Bivins

American lawyer and diplomat
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2009 15 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the 18th United States Ambassador to Sweden from 2001 to 2003. Engaged in law practice prior to diplomatic appointment. Participated in Republican Party politics, holding various positions. His career in law included significant work in the legal field in Texas. Became involved in several initiatives during tenure as ambassador, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations between the United States and Sweden.

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Jane Dornacker

Musician and comedian; radio reporter
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1986 38 years ago — 39 years old

A musician and comedian, contributed to American radio and entertainment during the 1980s. Performed in various bands and comedy shows, gaining recognition for her unique humor and musical talent. Served as a traffic reporter for radio stations, where her engaging delivery captured audiences. Worked with distinguished personalities in the radio industry, where comedic sketches and musical performances were part of the broadcasts. Passed away in 1986, leaving a legacy in local radio.

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Göran Hägg

Author and literary critic
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2015 9 years ago — 68 years old

A Swedish author and literary critic focused on literary history, criticism, and the history of Swedish literature. Produced a significant body of work that explored the development of literature in Sweden and the role of important literary figures. Engaged in public discussions and debates surrounding literature, contributing to cultural discourse in Sweden. Authored various books and articles that provided insights into Swedish literary movements and their impact on society.

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Humberto Ortega

Nicaraguan military leader
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2024 0 years ago — 77 years old

A military leader in Nicaragua, held significant influence during the Nicaraguan Revolution. Served as the commander of the Sandinista National Liberation Front. Played a key role in overthrowing the Somoza dictatorship in 1979. Oversaw military strategies and policies during the subsequent Sandinista government, shaping the country's political landscape in the 1980s.

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