What Happened This Year 1951

Born in 1951

Ken Reitz

American baseball player and All-Star
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2021 4 years ago — 70 years old

Played third baseman in Major League Baseball from 1975 to 1988. Primarily associated with the St. Louis Cardinals, contributed significantly to the team's success during the 1980s. Selected as an All-Star in 1975, participated in three National League Championship Series. Retired with a reputation as a strong defensive player.

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Avi Beker

Political Scientist and Academic
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 64 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of political science and academia. Served as a professor and held various academic positions in Israel, focusing on international relations, peace studies, and conflict resolution. Authored several books and articles, discussing the implications of political decisions in the Middle East and global contexts. Engaged in various conferences and discussions pertaining to peace in the region.

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Alan Merrill

Musician and songwriter, co-wrote 'I Love Rock 'n' Roll'
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2020 5 years ago — 69 years old

An American musician and songwriter, played guitar and provided vocals for the band The Restless Hearts. Co-wrote the iconic song 'I Love Rock 'n' Roll', which gained immense popularity after being covered by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts. Contributed to the music industry as a prominent figure in the glam rock movement during the 1970s. Throughout his career, collaborated with various artists and bands, leaving a lasting mark on rock music.

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Bill Cratty

Dancer and choreographer, Broadway's original.
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1998 27 years ago — 47 years old

Contributed to the world of dance and choreography through direction and performance. Worked extensively in musical theater, creating innovative choreography that shaped productions. Collaborated with various artists and productions, significantly influencing American dance.

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Huw Lloyd-Langton

English guitarist of Hawkwind fame
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent English guitarist contributed significantly to the development of space rock music. Played with the band Hawkwind in various periods, helping shape their sound during the 1970s. Participated in creating several albums, including 'Space Ritual' and 'Warrior on the Edge of Time'. In addition to work with Hawkwind, collaborated with other musicians and bands, further expanding the impact on the genre. His guitar work was recognized for its unique blend of hard rock and psychedelic elements.

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Murray Sinclair

Canadian lawyer and politician
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
November 4th, 2024 1 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in Canadian law and politics, contributed significantly to Indigenous rights and social justice. Served as the first Indigenous judge in Manitoba's Court of Queen's Bench. Chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, addressing the legacy of residential schools in Canada. Actively involved in legal advocacy and policy reform for Indigenous communities.

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Georges Thurston

Canadian singer-songwriter with hit songs
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2007 18 years ago — 56 years old

A Canadian singer-songwriter contributed to the music scene with a focus on folk and popular music. Released several albums during a career spanning multiple decades. Gained recognition for crafting songs that resonated with audiences, blending personal narratives with broader social themes. Collaborated with various artists and participated in music festivals, showcasing original works. Continued to perform and connect with fans until death.

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Lane Evans

American lawyer and politician
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 63 years old

Served as a U.S. Congressman from Illinois from 1993 to 2007. During tenure, focused on veterans' affairs, labor rights, and health care issues. Advocated for policies enhancing the welfare of veterans and worked on various legislation affecting the middle class. Retired from politics due to health issues and contributed to community initiatives in the region.

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Bill Viola

Video and installation artist known for "The Crossing"
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent video and installation artist, contributed significantly to the development of contemporary video art. Explored themes of life, death, and the human experience through immersive installations. Gained recognition with works such as "The Crossing," which showcased the profound emotional resonance of imagery and sound. Engaged with various technologies to create thought-provoking visual experiences that challenge perceptions of reality and time.

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