What Happened This Year 1951

Born in 1951

Mohamad Chatah

Lebanese economist and Minister of Finance
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2013 11 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the Lebanese Minister of Finance from 2005 to 2008. Contributed to various economic reforms and played a significant role in the economic planning of Lebanon. Worked on fiscal policies aimed at improving the country's financial stability and growth. Engaged in public policies and is remembered for advocating against corruption within the government. Was also involved in Lebanon’s diplomatic efforts, particularly in international financial institutions.

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Stanley J. Korsmeyer

Oncologist and academic researcher
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2005 20 years ago — 54 years old

An American oncologist and academic, contributions focused on the genetic basis of cancer and apoptosis. Led significant research elucidating the role of the BCL-2 gene in cell death and survival. Worked at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and served on the faculty at Harvard Medical School, influencing both clinical practices and research methodologies in oncology. Awarded the American Association for Cancer Research 2004 Distinguished Achievement Award for excellence in cancer research.

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Jamaluddin Jarjis

Malaysian engineer and politician
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent engineer and politician in Malaysia, contributed significantly to the development of the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure. Served as the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation and played a key role in shaping policies related to technology and innovation. Held various positions within the government, including Member of Parliament. Involved in numerous initiatives to promote science and technology education in Malaysia. His engineering background helped bridge the gap between technology and governmental policy.

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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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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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Zaw Myint Maung

Burmese politician and physician
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
October 7th, 2024 0 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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Ken Reitz

American baseball player and All-Star
Born
1951 74 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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Hossein Hamadani

Iranian General and military leader
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
October 7th, 2015 9 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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Wau Holland

Computer scientist, co-founded CCC
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
July 29th, 2001 23 years ago — 50 years old

Involved in the formation of the Chaos Computer Club, one of the world's first hacker organizations. Contributed to various discussions on computer security, civil rights, and the implications of digital technology in society. Actively participated in the integrative discourse around law and technology. Advocate for free access to information and open-source software.

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