What Happened This Year 1959
Born in 1959
Guy Laliberté
A Canadian businessman and philanthropist, founded Cirque du Soleil in 1984, transforming the circus arts with a unique blend of street performance, acrobatics, and theater. The company grew from a small group of 20 performers to a global entertainment phenomenon, known for its artistic innovation and signature productions. Laliberté also contributed to artistic endeavors beyond Cirque, engaging in various philanthropic activities including the One Drop Foundation, which focuses on water access around the world. His passion for poker garnered attention as he participated in high-stakes tournaments, including the World Series of Poker.
Continue ReadingDrungo Hazewood
An American baseball player played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Career spanned from 1980 to 1983. Played for the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Mets. Developed skills in batting and fielding during college baseball. Transitioned to professional baseball after being drafted but saw limited success in the major leagues.
Continue ReadingArmin Kogler
An accomplished ski jumper from Austria, achieved significant success in the 1980s and 1990s. Secured a gold medal in the normal hill event at the 1984 Sarajevo Winter Olympics. Dominated the Ski Jumping World Cup, winning the overall title in 1985 and 1986. Competed in various international competitions, establishing a reputation as one of the top athletes in the sport during that era.
Continue ReadingFrank Schirrmacher
A prominent journalist and publisher, contributed significantly to contemporary discourse through writing and editing. Co-founded the newspaper 'Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung' and served as its editor for many years. Advocated for the importance of journalism in the digital age and authored critically acclaimed works on societal issues, including media and technology. His publications have sparked significant discussions in Germany and beyond regarding the future of democracy and the role of media in society.
Continue ReadingÉric Serra
A French composer and music producer, recognized for contributions to film music. Collaborated extensively with director Luc Besson, composing scores for several films. Gained prominence with the soundtrack of 'The Fifth Element,' which became a cult favorite. Worked on other notable projects such as 'Nikita' and 'Léon: The Professional.' His style combines electronic elements with orchestral music, influencing the sound of contemporary film scores.
Continue ReadingJohn Hawkes
An American actor born on September 11, 1959, gained recognition for work in film and television. Gained significant attention for the role of Teardrop in the film 'Winter's Bone,' which earned critical acclaim. Also starred in 'The Sessions,' portraying a sex surrogate, receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. In addition to film work, appeared in the series 'Deadwood' as Sol Star and in 'Eastbound & Down.'
Continue ReadingSigmar Gabriel
Served as the Vice-Chancellor of Germany from 2013 to 2018. Held the position of Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy, leading initiatives in energy policy and economics. Served as the leader of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) from 2011 to 2017. Participated in negotiations on various coalitions, contributing to governmental policy-making and international relations.
Continue ReadingScott Brown
American colonel and politician served as a U.S. senator from Massachusetts from 2010 to 2013. Elected in a special election to fill the vacancy left by the passing of Edward Kennedy, represented the Republican Party and became the first Republican senator from Massachusetts in nearly 40 years. Prior to his political career, served in the Massachusetts Army National Guard and in the active duty Army, gaining recognition for leadership and service.
Continue ReadingTatyana Mitkova
Born in 1959, a prominent Russian journalist and news presenter. This individual gained recognition for anchoring major news programs on Russian television, particularly on RTR and later on NTV. An influential figure in the field of journalism, contributions included hosting programs that addressed significant socio-political issues in Russia during transformative years. Engaged in various journalistic endeavors, including reporting on conflicts and covering major national events.
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