What Happened This Year 1951

Born in 1951

Lane Evans

American lawyer and politician
Born
1951 74 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 74 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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C. J. Henderson

Author and critic of speculative fiction
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 63 years old

An American author and critic, widely recognized for contributions to speculative fiction. Wrote numerous novels, short stories, and articles covering a variety of topics including horror, science fiction, and fantasy. Developed a significant body of work that included series such as the 'Jack Hagee' books and the 'Pulp Fiction' series. Also edited and contributed to various publications, providing insights into the genre and its authors.

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Larry Hoppen

Singer and guitarist for Orleans
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
July 24th, 2012 13 years ago — 61 years old

A singer and guitarist, contributed significantly to the band Orleans, which gained popularity in the 1970s. The group is recognized for its hit single "Still the One," which reached the top of the charts. The band's sound blended rock and pop elements effectively, showcasing vocal harmonies and distinct guitar work. Over the years, Orleans released several albums and toured extensively, solidifying a place in classic rock history. Their music continues to be celebrated by fans and has endured through various media.

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Hossein Hamadani

Iranian General and military leader
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
October 7th, 2015 10 years ago — 64 years old

A senior commander in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, played a significant role in the Syrian Civil War. Oversaw operations aimed at supporting the Syrian government and combatting terrorist groups. Contributed to military strategies and was involved in training militias aligned with Iranian interests in the region. Commanded forces in various operations that showcased the military capabilities of Iran in foreign conflicts.

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Zaw Myint Maung

Burmese politician and physician
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
October 7th, 2024 1 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent politician and physician, contributed to Myanmar's political landscape as a member of the National League for Democracy. Involved in medical practice prior to engaging in politics, focus shifted towards democratic governance and reform efforts. Detained as a political prisoner under the previous military junta for activism against oppressive regimes. After his release, continued to advocate for democracy and played a significant role in shaping the policies of local governance.

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Kim Peek

American megasavant with incredible memory
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2009 15 years ago — 58 years old

A megasavant exhibited extraordinary memory capabilities, capable of recalling vast amounts of information. Provided insights to researchers on savant syndrome. Lived with developmental disabilities and was a key figure in understanding the potential of the human brain. Inspired the character Raymond Babbitt in the film 'Rain Man', which brought attention to the abilities of individuals with savant syndrome.

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Philip Bradbourn

English lawyer and politician
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2014 10 years ago — 63 years old

Graduated from the University of Birmingham with a law degree. Served as a Member of the European Parliament representing the West Midlands from 1999 to 2014. Actively engaged in various political issues, including legislation related to taxation and economic matters. Held the position of Vice Chairman of the British Conservative Party. Served as a keen advocate for local and regional governance throughout his political career.

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Nicu Ceaușescu

Romanian politician and leader
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1996 29 years ago — 45 years old

Served as the first secretary of the Romanian Communist Party's Youth Organization. Held significant influence during the Communist regime in Romania as the son of Nicolae Ceaușescu. Became the deputy prime minister in the 1980s and was involved in promoting the regime's propaganda. After the 1989 Revolution, faced charges of crimes against humanity, leading to a trial and subsequent imprisonment. Died while still incarcerated in 1996.

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