What Happened This Year 1947

Born in 1947

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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Mike Brant

Israeli singer and songwriter
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1975 49 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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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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Franz West

Austrian painter and sculptor
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2012 12 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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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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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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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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Rubén Juárez

Argentinian singer-songwriter and bandoneón player
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2010 14 years ago — 63 years old

An influential figure in the world of tango music, contributed significantly to the genre as a singer-songwriter and accomplished bandoneón player. Began a career in music during the 1960s, gaining recognition within the Argentine music scene. Released multiple albums that showcased the traditional sounds of tango while incorporating modern elements. Collaborated with prominent musicians in the tango genre and performed extensively in Argentina and internationally, solidifying a reputation as a cornerstone of contemporary tango music.

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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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