What Happened This Year 1947

Born in 1947

Otto Stuppacher

Austrian race car driver
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2001 23 years ago — 54 years old

Competed in various racing events during the 1970s and 1980s, particularly known for participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Achieved notable success in the European endurance racing circuit. Stuppacher's career included driving for several teams, demonstrating skill in both speed and endurance racing disciplines. He contributed to the growing popularity of motorsport in Austria during this era.

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Dawoud Rajiha

Syrian General, Minister of Defense
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
July 18th, 2012 12 years ago — 65 years old

Served as a general in the Syrian Armed Forces and held the position of Minister of Defense. Played a significant role during the Syrian civil conflict, overseeing military operations. His tenure as minister was marked by controversial decisions amid ongoing unrest in the country. Held office until death in 2012, which occurred during a period of escalating violence and political turmoil.

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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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Wayne Allwine

Voice actor, voice of Mickey Mouse
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2009 16 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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Mike Brant

Israeli singer and songwriter
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1975 50 years ago — 28 years old

Achieved fame in the 1970s as a pop singer, particularly in France and Israel. Released hit songs including 'Laisse les parler' and 'Mais je t'aime'. His music blended various styles, appealing to a wide audience. Struggled with personal issues that contributed to a tragic end in 1975.

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Todd Akin

American politician, U.S. Representative
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 2021 3 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a U.S. Representative from Missouri from 2001 to 2013. Akin was a member of the Republican Party and represented Missouri's 2nd congressional district. Gained national attention during the 2012 Senate race, particularly for controversial remarks about rape and pregnancy. Authored several pieces of legislation during congressional tenure.

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Francisco Chavez

Solicitor General of the Philippines
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2013 11 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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Warren Clarke

Actor known for 'Dalziel and Pascoe'
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
November 12th, 2014 10 years ago — 67 years old

Engaged in a prominent acting career spanning several decades, contributed as an actor, director, and producer. Notable appearances include roles in the television series 'Dalziel and Pascoe' and 'Goodnight Sweetheart'. Also featured in films such as 'A Clockwork Orange'. Worked extensively in theater and television, earning recognition for versatile performances.

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Jacob Bekenstein

Theoretical physicist and cosmologist
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2015 9 years ago — 68 years old

Significant contributions were made to the understanding of black holes and thermodynamics. Developed a theory that relates black hole entropy to the area of its event horizon, leading to the formulation of the Bekenstein-Hawking entropy. Held a position as a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and made advancements in quantum mechanics and cosmology. Published numerous papers in theoretical physics, including work on the implications of black hole radiation.

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