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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Rafael Robles

Dominican-American baseball player
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1998 26 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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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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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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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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Duane Thomas

American football player, Super Bowl champion
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
August 4th, 2024 0 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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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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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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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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