What Happened This Year 1959

Born in 1959

Pavle Kozjek

Slovenian mountaineer and photographer
Born
January 15th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 49 years old

Accomplished in mountaineering, engaged in numerous expeditions across challenging terrains. Contributed to the field of outdoor photography, capturing images of mountains and climbers. Participated in significant climbs in the Himalayas and the Alps, documenting the culture and environment around these areas. Worked on various photography projects that emphasized the beauty and challenges of climbing.

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Sade

Singer-songwriter and producer
Born
January 16th, 1959 66 years ago

A singer-songwriter and producer originated from Nigeria and England. Achieved widespread recognition in the 1980s with the formation of the band Sade. The band released the debut album 'Diamond Life' in 1984, which included the hit single 'Smooth Operator'. Blended elements of soul, jazz, and R&B in music. Continued to release successful albums throughout the decades, including 'Promise' and 'Lovers Rock'. Earned several awards, including Grammy Awards.

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Susanna Hoffs

Singer-songwriter with Bangles hit songs
Born
January 17th, 1959 66 years ago

A singer-songwriter and guitarist, gained prominence in the 1980s as a member of the band The Bangles. The band released several hit singles, including 'Walk Like an Egyptian' and 'Manic Monday'. Expanded into solo work and acted in films such as 'The Allnighter'. Established a successful career in music while exploring various artistic projects.

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Danese Cooper

Computer scientist and open source advocate
Born
January 19th, 1959 66 years ago

Contributed to the development of the open source movement. Played a key role at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and later at Sun Microsystems, where focus was on promoting the use of open source software. Served as the first-ever Chief Open Source Evangelist at Intel. Advocated for collaboration among developers and the importance of open technology standards.

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Jeff Pilson

Bass player for Dokken and Foreigner
Born
January 19th, 1959 66 years ago

A bass player, songwriter, and actor, contributed significantly to the American rock scene. Pilson performed with the band Dokken, participating in the album 'Tooth and Nail', which achieved commercial success. Also played with Foreigner, contributing to their album 'Mr. Moonlight'. Beyond music, involved in various film and television projects, showcasing versatility in entertainment.

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R. A. Salvatore

Fantasy author of the Drizzt series
Born
January 20th, 1959 66 years ago

An American author focused on fantasy literature, particularly known for the creation of the character Drizzt Do'Urden. Salvatore's work in the Dungeons & Dragons universe has garnered a significant readership, becoming a prominent figure in contemporary fantasy writing. The series features themes of morality, friendship, and adventure, set in the expansive Forgotten Realms. Salvatore graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a degree in communications and began writing in the late 1980s. The Drizzt series began with 'The Crystal Shard,' published in 1988, which introduced readers to the world of the dark elf. Subsequent novels in the series continued to explore Drizzt's journey through challenges and conflicts in a richly developed universe.

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Alex McLeish

Football manager and former player
Born
January 21st, 1959 66 years ago

Began a career as a professional footballer, primarily playing as a defender for clubs such as Aberdeen and the Scottish national team. Achieved significant success as a manager, notably leading Birmingham City to victory in the 2011 Football League Cup. Also managed clubs like Rangers and Aston Villa, contributing to their competitive standings in domestic leagues. During tenure at Rangers, secured multiple league titles and cup victories.

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Linda Blair

American actress, The Exorcist star
Born
January 22nd, 1959 66 years ago

Born in 1959, an American actress achieved prominence for a leading role in the influential horror film The Exorcist, released in 1973. The performance in this film garnered critical acclaim and established a significant career in acting. In addition to work in film, appearances in television series and television films contributed to sustained visibility in the entertainment industry. Noteworthy television work includes roles in the series Scarecrow and Mrs. King and the film The Exorcist III. Throughout the career, participation in various projects showcased versatility and adaptability in multiple genres including horror and drama.

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Akira Maeda

Japanese wrestler and mixed martial artist
Born
January 24th, 1959 66 years ago

A significant figure in the world of professional wrestling and mixed martial arts, this individual began a career in wrestling with New Japan Pro-Wrestling in the late 1970s. After a successful period, transitioned to the UWF, where innovative fighting styles and realism in wrestling gained a following. Competed in several prominent promotions, achieving recognition for outstanding grappling techniques and intense match experiences. Later ventured into mixed martial arts, holding championships and participating in notable events. Apart from wrestling, engaged in acting, featuring in films and television series that showcased contributions beyond the ring.

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