What Happened This Year 1949

Born in 1949

Nawaz Sharif

Pakistani politician, former Prime Minister
Born
December 25th, 1949 75 years ago

Served as the 12th Prime Minister of Pakistan across three non-consecutive terms. Focused on economic liberalization and infrastructure development. His political career included significant involvement in the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz party, leading it to multiple electoral victories. Played a pivotal role in the 1990s economic reforms and initiated development projects like the motorway network. Faced challenges concerning political stability, corruption allegations, and significant legal battles, which eventually culminated in disqualification from holding public office.

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José Ramos-Horta

East Timorese politician, Nobel laureate
Born
December 26th, 1949 75 years ago

A lawyer and politician, this individual served as the second President of East Timor from 2007 to 2012. Significant contributions to East Timor's struggle for independence, participating in diplomatic efforts in various countries, including Australia and the United States. Instrumental in the establishment of a peaceful resolution to the conflict in East Timor, advocating for human rights and justice. In 1996, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize alongside Carlos Filipe Ximenes Belo for their work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Also served as Minister of Foreign Affairs and as Prime Minister during a time of political transition.

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Terry Ito

Japanese director and television producer
Born
December 27th, 1949 75 years ago

A television director and producer, major contributions came in the field of Japanese media. Involved with a variety of television programs, including popular formats that influenced Japanese entertainment. Worked extensively as a critic, providing insight into the media landscape, and participated in directing various shows that garnered viewer attention.

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David Topliss

Rugby league player and coach
Born
December 29th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 59 years old

A former rugby league player and coach, this individual played primarily as a stand-off or halfback. Career spanned the late 1960s through the early 1980s, with a notable tenure at clubs including Wakefield Trinity and Castleford. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of future players and teams in the sport. Led various teams in different competitive settings, influencing the strategic approach of the game.

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Jerry Coyne

Biologist and author of 'Why Evolution is True'
Born
December 30th, 1949 75 years ago

Contributions include research in evolutionary genetics and understanding speciation. Served as a professor at the University of Chicago, specializing in evolution and genetics. Authored several influential books, notably 'Why Evolution is True,' which presented evidence supporting evolutionary theory. Engaged in public debates about creationism and science education, promoting scientific literacy.

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Jim Flaherty

Canadian politician and finance minister
Born
December 30th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2014 10 years ago — 64 years old

A Canadian lawyer and politician served as the 37th Minister of Finance from 2006 to 2014. Played a key role in shaping national economic policy and was involved in responses to the global financial crisis. Involved in various financial reforms and initiatives aimed at strengthening the Canadian economy during his tenure. Advocated for fiscal responsibility and transparency in government expenditures.

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Ellen Datlow

Anthologist and horror editor
Born
December 31st, 1949 75 years ago

An influential anthologist and editor primarily in the horror genre. Edited many acclaimed anthologies such as 'The Dark' and 'The Year's Best Fantasy and Horror'. Worked with numerous celebrated authors and has contributed to the development of various horror literature trends. Breeds a profound appreciation for speculative fiction and champions new talent alongside established writers. Received multiple awards for editorial contributions in the genre.

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Tanya Roberts

Actress recognized for 'That '70s Show'
Born
October 15th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2021 4 years ago — 65 years old

An American actress had a prominent career in television and film. Made an early appearance in the 1975 film 'The Yum Yum Girls' before achieving major recognition for the role of Midge Pinciotti on the sitcom 'That '70s Show' from 1998 to 2006. Gained further fame as Stacey Sutton in the James Bond film 'A View to a Kill' in 1985. Participated in various theater productions and also worked as a model during her early career. Appeared in numerous television shows throughout the 1980s and 1990s, showcasing her talent in both comedic and dramatic roles.

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Tom Pryce

Race car driver with Formula One influence
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1977 48 years ago — 28 years old

Began motorsport career in karting, achieving significant success before transitioning to single-seaters. Competed in Formula One from 1974 until 1977. Joined the Shadow team in 1975, where notable performances highlighted skill and talent. Recorded a remarkable sixth place finish at the 1975 Monaco Grand Prix, establishing a strong reputation in the racing community. Tragically lost life during a race at the South African Grand Prix in 1977, marking a premature end to a promising career.

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