What Happened This Year 1951
Born in 1951
Doug Collins
A basketball player and coach, contributions to the sport include playing in the NBA and coaching at various levels. Played for the Philadelphia 76ers and was a member of the 1972 USA Olympic Basketball Team. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, leading teams including the Chicago Bulls and the Washington Wizards. Coached the Bulls during the early 1980s and returned to the NBA coaching ranks in the 1990s with the Wizards.
Continue ReadingDan Driessen
Played in Major League Baseball primarily as a first baseman and outfielder. Career spanned from 1973 to 1986. Spent significant time with the Cincinnati Reds, contributing to the team's success during the 1970s and 1980s. Participated in two World Series and won a championship in 1975. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, applying expertise in the sport to assist developing players.
Continue ReadingSusan Blackmore
Specialized in psychology and the study of consciousness, focusing on memes and their influence on culture. Authored several books including 'The Meme Machine', which explores how ideas and behaviors spread. Engaged in research on near-death experiences and consciousness. Contributed to discussions on the implications of cognitive science and its links to philosophy.
Continue ReadingGerry Judah
Born in 1951, a prominent Indian-English painter and sculptor, known for large-scale sculptures and installations. His work often features themes relating to identity and culture. Judah has created numerous public art pieces, enhancing urban landscapes. Significant works include the dramatic installation 'The Holocaust Memorial' in London, and contributions to the annual Burning Man festival.
Continue ReadingEvonne Goolagong Cawley
This Australian tennis player achieved significant success during her career. Winning the Australian Open in both 1970 and 1971, she also captured the Wimbledon title in 1971, becoming the first Aboriginal Australian to win a Grand Slam. Her powerful baseline game and graceful playing style contributed to her popularity and success on the international stage. After retiring, she became involved in tennis coaching and mentoring, promoting the sport among young players, especially Indigenous youth.
Continue ReadingTommy Bolin
A prominent American guitarist and songwriter, this individual made significant contributions to rock music in the 1970s. Emerging from the band Zephyr, the artist gained recognition as a member of the iconic rock group Deep Purple. The guitarist added a unique touch to the band's sound and participated in the production of the album 'Come Taste the Band'. Additionally, a solo career produced celebrated works such as 'Teaser'.
Continue ReadingPete Mackanin
A former professional baseball player and manager, involved in Major League Baseball. Played as an infielder for teams including the Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets, and St. Louis Cardinals. Transitioned to coaching and managing, serving as the interim manager for the Philadelphia Phillies. Contributed to team strategy and development over several years within various roles in baseball organizations.
Continue ReadingBurgess Owens
Played as a safety in the National Football League from 1973 to 1983, primarily with the New York Jets and the Oakland Raiders. Contributed to the Raiders' victory in Super Bowl XVIII. Transitioned into a political career, focusing on issues such as education and healthcare. Elected as a U.S. Representative from Utah's 4th congressional district in 2021.
Continue ReadingJoe Lynn Turner
Turner gained prominence as the lead vocalist for the rock band Rainbow, contributing to the album 'Difficult to Cure'. His career included successful collaborations with various artists and participation in the band Yngwie Malmsteen's Rising Force. Turner also pursued a solo career and released several albums, showcasing his vocal talents in the rock genre. In addition to his music career, he has performed in multiple live concerts and music festivals, solidifying his presence in the music industry. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his distinctive voice and songwriting abilities.
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