What Happened This Year 1947

Born in 1947

Richard Coughlan

English drummer for Caravan
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2013 11 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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John Campbell Brown

Scottish astronomer and astrophysicist
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2019 5 years ago — 72 years old

Contributions to astronomy included significant work on celestial mechanics and stellar dynamics. Held a professorship at the University of Glasgow, where research focused on stellar objects and galactic phenomena. Published numerous papers and engaged in public outreach to promote astronomy education. Involved in projects that surveyed the night sky for new astronomical phenomena.

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Grethe Kausland

Norwegian actress and singer
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2007 17 years ago — 60 years old

An accomplished actress and singer, this individual became prominent in the Norwegian entertainment scene. She gained widespread recognition through performances in musical theater and television. Popular roles included appearances in the TV series 'Kraftidioten' and various revues. The singer's contributions to the music scene, particularly in the genre of pop and folk, resonated with audiences, leading to a successful recording career. Her work not only showcased her talents but also left an enduring legacy in Norwegian culture.

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Franz West

Austrian painter and sculptor
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2012 13 years ago — 65 years old

An influential artist in contemporary art, contributed to the Vienna art scene through abstract sculptures and interactive installations. His works explored the relationship between art and the viewer, often incorporating social commentary. Played a significant role in the development of postmodern art. Participated in multiple exhibitions, including Documenta in Kassel. His unique style combined various materials and techniques, challenging traditional concepts of sculpture and painting.

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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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Terry Griffiths

Snooker player and world champion
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2024 0 years ago — 77 years old

A professional snooker player and coach with significant achievements in the sport, including winning the World Snooker Championship in 1979. Established a reputation as a skilled competitor and later transitioned to coaching, helping to develop future talents in snooker. Contributed to the sport through various roles, including commentary and mentoring.

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Norm Van Lier

Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2009 16 years ago — 62 years old

Played as a point guard in the National Basketball Association primarily for the Chicago Bulls from 1969 to 1976. Achieved three All-Star selections during the early 1970s. Transitioned into coaching and sportscasting after retirement, sharing insights on basketball through various media platforms. Inducted into the Chicago Sports Hall of Fame recognizing contributions to the sport.

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Gennadiy Seleznyov

Russian journalist and politician
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
July 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 68 years old

Seleznyov served as a Russian politician and journalist, holding the position of the 2nd Speaker of the State Duma from 1996 to 2003. Involved in politics with the Liberal Democratic Party, contributed to legislative processes during a significant period of post-Soviet Russia. Active in various media roles, influencing public discourse through journalistic endeavors. Engaged in numerous political initiatives, and represented Russia on various platforms.

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Afeni Shakur

Music businesswoman and activist
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 69 years old

A music businesswoman, activist, and former member of the Black Panther Party. Played a crucial role in the life and career of her son, Tupac Shakur, influencing his artistry and activism. Involved in legal battles over Tupac's estate, helping to shape the legacy of his music and cultural impact. Worked to ensure that his music and message lived on, advocating for social justice and equality through various initiatives. Contributed to the Black Panther Party's efforts during the 1960s and 1970s, focusing on community outreach and empowerment.

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