What Happened This Year 1948

Born in 1948

Jaap de Hoop Scheffer

Dutch diplomat, 11th NATO Secretary General
Born
April 3rd, 1948 76 years ago

Served as the 11th Secretary General of NATO from January 2004 to August 2009. Contributed to international security and defense cooperation in this role. Previously held positions such as Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Netherlands from 2002 to 2003, and sat in the Dutch House of Representatives. After retiring from NATO, engaged in academic pursuits and provided guidance on international relations.

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Hans-Georg Schwarzenbeck

German footballer, FC Bayern Munich defender
Born
April 3rd, 1948 76 years ago

Born in 1948, a central defender served primarily with FC Bayern Munich. Played a significant role in the club's success during the 1970s. Contributed to Bayern Munich's consecutive Bundesliga championships and the European Cup title. His tactical awareness and defensive skills were pivotal in securing victories for the team.

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Carlos Salinas de Gortari

Economist, 53rd President of Mexico
Born
April 3rd, 1948 76 years ago

Served as the 53rd President of Mexico from 1988 to 1994. Focused on economic reforms, promoting trade liberalization, and modernizing the Mexican economy. Implemented the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) which facilitated trade with the United States and Canada. His administration emphasized privatization of state-owned enterprises and reducing government intervention in the economy. Faced criticism regarding political repression and corruption during the presidency.

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Arlette Cousture

Canadian author and screenwriter
Born
April 3rd, 1948 76 years ago

An author and screenwriter with significant contributions to Canadian literature and film. Gained prominence with the novel 'Les Filles de Caleb', which was adapted into a popular television series. Explored themes of love, family, and the experience of French Canadians in her works. Also authored several other novels and contributed to the film industry through screenwriting, particularly focused on Canadian narratives.

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Richard Parsons

American lawyer and businessman
Born
April 4th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2024 0 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the chairman of Citigroup from 2009 to 2012, overseeing significant restructuring during a challenging period for the bank. Held the position of chairman of the board for the Madison Square Garden Company, contributing to the management of the iconic venue and sports teams. Previously acted as CEO of Dime Savings Bank and played a vital role in the bank's transformation and merger processes. Also served as the chairman of the board for both the upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone and the Apollo Theater.

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Berry Oakley

American bass player with The Allman Brothers
Born
April 4th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1972 52 years ago — 24 years old

A prominent bass player emerged in the late 1960s, contributing significantly to the Southern rock genre. Joined The Allman Brothers Band, where his melodic style complemented the innovative sound of the group. Recorded classic albums including "Eat a Peach" and "At Fillmore East", both crucial to the band's legacy. Oakley's performances and compositions were integral to the band's success during their peak years. Tragically, Oakley's life was cut short in a motorcycle accident, but his music continues to influence generations of musicians.

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Abdullah Öcalan

Turkish political activist and leader
Born
April 4th, 1948 76 years ago

A prominent political figure, played a key role in the founding of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in 1978. Focused on advocating for Kurdish rights in Turkey, leading actions and discussions aimed at political autonomy and cultural recognition. Arrested in 1999 and sentenced to life imprisonment, continued to influence Kurdish political movements from prison through writings and statements. Recognized as a central figure in the ongoing discussions regarding Kurdish issues in Turkey.

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Pick Withers

English drummer with Dire Straits
Born
April 4th, 1948 76 years ago

Born in 1948, this English drummer gained prominence as a member of the rock band Dire Straits. In the late 1970s, the band achieved commercial success with their self-titled debut album, which featured the hit single 'Sultans of Swing'. The band went on to release several acclaimed albums, including 'Brothers in Arms', which won multiple awards and became one of the best-selling albums of all time. Withers's distinctive drumming style contributed to the band's unique sound. He was a member of Dire Straits until 1982, after which he pursued various musical projects.

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Pierre-Albert Chapuisat

Swiss footballer and national team player
Born
April 5th, 1948 76 years ago

Played as a forward in professional football, representing several clubs in Switzerland and France. Contributed to the Swiss national team during the 1970s, participating in various international tournaments. Had a notable career at clubs such as Lausanne-Sport and served in a coaching capacity after his playing days. His playing style emphasized speed and technical skill on the ball.

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