What Happened This Year 1956

Born in 1956

José Rubén Zamora

Guatemalan journalist and media figure
Born
August 19th, 1956 68 years ago

Born in Guatemala, a journalist with a focus on investigative reporting and editorial leadership. Founded the newspaper Siglo XXI in 1990, which became a significant platform for political and social commentary. Faced multiple threats and challenges due to exposing corruption and governmental abuses. Played a crucial role in highlighting human rights violations in Guatemala during the internal conflict. Engaged in promoting press freedom and accountability in journalism.

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Adam Arkin

Actor and director of 'Northern Exposure'
Born
August 19th, 1956 68 years ago

An American actor, director, and producer, notable for contributions to television and film. Gained prominence as a part of the cast of 'Northern Exposure', portraying the character Adam. Directed several episodes of popular series, showcasing skills behind the camera. Involved in various productions across both television and film, displaying versatility and commitment to the craft.

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Desmond Swayne

Vice-Chamberlain and English Soldier
Born
August 20th, 1956 68 years ago

A soldier and politician served as Vice-Chamberlain of the Household. Swayne has been a Member of Parliament for the New Forest West since 1997. His military career includes service in the British Army, where he rose to the rank of Major. Throughout the political tenure, he held various positions within the government and contributed to discussions on defense and domestic policy.

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Joan Allen

American actress in notable films
Born
August 20th, 1956 68 years ago

An accomplished actress with a career spanning several decades. Gained prominence for performances in film, television, and theater. Received critical acclaim for roles in 'Nixon', 'The Contender', and 'The Bourne Identity'. Achieved recognition as a versatile performer across various genres and was honored with multiple award nominations throughout a distinguished career.

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Kim Cattrall

Actress known for 'Sex and the City'
Born
August 21st, 1956 68 years ago

An English-Canadian actress, prominent for a career spanning several decades, gained widespread recognition for the role of Samantha Jones in the HBO series 'Sex and the City.' This series, which aired from 1998 to 2004, showcased the lives of four women navigating love and friendship in New York City. Following the series, the character was reprised in two feature films, 'Sex and the City' (2008) and 'Sex and the City 2' (2010), further solidifying her status in popular culture. Prior to this landmark role, participated in various film and television projects, including 'Big Trouble in Little China' and 'Mannequin.'

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Paul Molitor

Baseball player and coach, World Series champion
Born
August 22nd, 1956 68 years ago

This individual played Major League Baseball primarily as a third baseman and designated hitter. His career spanned from 1978 to 1998, mainly with the Milwaukee Brewers, Toronto Blue Jays, and Minnesota Twins. Achieved significant recognition with over 3,000 hits in his career. After retirement, transitioned into coaching, including a tenure as manager for the Minnesota Twins. Received induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2004.

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Skipp Sudduth

American actor in 'Third Watch'.
Born
August 23rd, 1956 68 years ago

An actor emerged in the entertainment industry with a focus on television and film. Gained recognition for a leading role in the series 'Third Watch', which aired from 1999 to 2005, contributing to the drama's exploration of the lives of emergency responders in New York City. Also appeared in a variety of films and guest roles in television shows, showcasing versatility across genres. Experienced in theater and brought characters to life on stage.

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Valgerd Svarstad Haugland

Norwegian politician and Minister of Culture
Born
August 23rd, 1956 68 years ago

This individual served as a Member of the Norwegian Parliament from 1997 to 2005 and held the position of Minister of Culture from 2001 to 2005. Focused on cultural policy, this person contributed to various initiatives regarding the arts, media, and cultural heritage during the tenure. Also involved in local politics and organizational roles, this individual emphasized education and culture throughout their career.

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Andreas Floer

Mathematician known for Floer Homology
Born
August 23rd, 1956 68 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1991 34 years ago — 34 years old

A mathematician contributed significantly to the fields of geometry and topology. Developed Floer homology, which provides important tools in understanding the topology of manifolds. Worked at institutions such as the University of California, Berkeley, influencing the study of symplectic geometry and gauge theory. Played a key role in the advancement of mathematical theories applicable to both mathematics and theoretical physics before passing at a young age.

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