What Happened This Year 1955

Born in 1955

Norm Nixon

Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
October 11th, 1955 69 years ago

Played as a guard in the National Basketball Association for the San Diego Clippers and the Los Angeles Lakers. Won two NBA championships with the Lakers in 1980 and 1982. After retiring from professional basketball, transitioned into a successful career as a sportscaster. Has covered basketball for various media outlets, providing commentary and analysis.

Continue Reading

Pat DiNizio

Singer-songwriter and guitarist of The Smithereens
Born
October 12th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2017 7 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1955, a singer-songwriter and guitarist achieved recognition as the frontman of the rock band The Smithereens. The group garnered a dedicated following in the 1980s and 1990s with their power pop sound. The band's hits included songs such as "Blood and Roses" and "A Girl Like You," which showcased a blend of melodic rock and lyrical depth. In addition to the band's success, contributed to various musical projects and collaborations throughout a prolific career. His songwriting reflected personal experiences and broader themes.

Continue Reading

Ante Gotovina

Croatian general and military leader
Born
October 12th, 1955 69 years ago

Graduated from the Military Academy in 1977 and served in the Croatian War of Independence. Commanded the 4th Battalion of the Croatian Army during the conflict. Directed the operation 'Storm' in 1995, leading to the recapture of territory held by Serb forces. The operation was pivotal in the establishment of Croatia as a sovereign state. After the war, faced accusations of war crimes, leading to a trial at The Hague, where he was initially convicted but later acquitted.

Continue Reading

Jane Siberry

Singer-songwriter and producer, 'Mimi on the Beach'
Born
October 12th, 1955 69 years ago

Canadian singer-songwriter and producer emerged in the 1980s music scene. Siberry's music blends folk, pop, and art rock, characterized by poetic lyrics and innovative arrangements. Albums such as 'No Borders Here' and 'When I Look Into My Life' received critical acclaim, showcasing a unique sound and approach to songwriting. The song 'Mimi on the Beach' became a notable hit, exemplifying her distinct style. Over the years, Siberry has collaborated with various artists and contributed to numerous soundtracks, enhancing her reputation in the music industry.

Continue Reading

Iwona Blazwick

Curator and critic of contemporary art
Born
October 14th, 1955 69 years ago

An English curator and critic, specialized in contemporary art. Served as Director of the Whitechapel Gallery in London, where significant exhibitions highlighted modern artistic practices. Contributed to the development of various renowned exhibitions and has been involved in numerous public art initiatives. Focused on working with emerging artists and fostering dialogue in the art community through innovative programs and partnerships.

Continue Reading

Arleen Sorkin

Actress, producer, screenwriter; 'Days of Our Lives'
Born
October 14th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 68 years old

An American actress, producer, and screenwriter, significant contributions include work in television and film. Best known for portraying Calliope Jones on the soap opera 'Days of Our Lives', a role that spanned multiple years. Also provided the voice of Harley Quinn in the animated series 'Batman: The Animated Series', influencing the character's development in subsequent media. In addition, contributed to television as a producer and writer, showcasing versatility in multiple roles within the entertainment field.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Kieran Doherty

Irish Republican hunger striker and politician
Born
October 16th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1981 43 years ago — 25 years old

Born in 1955, an Irish Republican hunger striker and politician. Active in the struggle for Irish independence, participated in the 1981 hunger strike to protest against the treatment of political prisoners in Northern Ireland. Elected as a Member of Parliament for Fermanagh and South Tyrone in 1981 while on hunger strike, representing the Nationalist community's vote in a time of significant political tension.

Continue Reading

Georgios Alogoskoufis

Greek economist and finance minister
Born
October 17th, 1955 69 years ago

An economist and academic rooted in Greece's economic policies served as the Minister of Finance from 2004 to 2009. During this tenure, implemented various fiscal policies and reforms that aimed to stabilize the economy. Engaged in discussions on European fiscal matters, contributing to Greece's role within the Eurozone. Focused on addressing challenges related to public debt and budgeting while fostering dialogue with international financial institutions.

Continue Reading