What Happened This Year 1959

Born in 1959

Krishnamachari Srikkanth

Indian cricketer and former captain
Born
December 21st, 1959 65 years ago

Debuted in international cricket in 1981. Played as an opener, contributing significantly to the Indian cricket team's success in the 1983 Cricket World Cup. Was the first Indian batsman to score a century in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Served as captain of the Indian cricket team and later took on roles in cricket commentary and administration.

Continue Reading

Bernd Schuster

Football manager and player, La Liga champion
Born
December 22nd, 1959 65 years ago

A former footballer and manager, a significant figure in German football history. Played primarily as a midfielder, spent professional playing career with clubs such as FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. Achieved notable success in La Liga, winning titles with both clubs. Transitioned to management, leading various teams including Getafe CF to a UEFA Cup semi-final. Notable for a style of play that emphasized technique and creativity.

Continue Reading

Lee Daniels

Director and producer of 'Precious'
Born
December 24th, 1959 65 years ago

An American director and producer, recognized for directing 'Precious', which received several Academy Award nominations. Played a significant role in the production of the hit television series 'Empire'. Worked on films such as 'The Butler' and 'Monster's Ball', earning critical acclaim and various awards throughout the career. Involved in various projects that focus on complex narratives and social issues.

Continue Reading

Michael P. Anderson

Colonel, pilot, NASA astronaut
Born
December 25th, 1959 65 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 44 years old

Born in 1959, a colonel in the United States Air Force and a NASA astronaut. Flew on the Space Shuttle missions STS-89 and STS-107. Served as a pilot for various military aircraft and contributed to scientific research during spaceflights. Tragically lost during the STS-107 mission, which aimed to conduct experiments in multiple scientific disciplines.

Continue Reading

Ramdas Athawale

Indian politician and poet
Born
December 25th, 1959 65 years ago

In 1959, a prominent figure in Indian politics was born. This individual has served as a member of the Lok Sabha, representing the Mumbai South-Central constituency. A leader in social justice, this person founded the Republican Party of India (A) which focuses on the rights of Scheduled Castes and the underprivileged. Besides political endeavors, this individual has made contributions to literature as a poet, often emphasizing social issues and rights within poems. Active in regional politics, this person has voiced support for various social causes.

Continue Reading

Wang Lijun

Chinese police officer and politician
Born
December 26th, 1959 65 years ago

Served as a police officer and politician in China. Played a significant role in the investigation of corruption cases in China's Tianjin and Chongqing municipalities. Held the position of Vice Mayor and Director of the Public Security Bureau in Chongqing. Led a campaign against organized crime and made headlines with the controversial handling of various political figures. His actions and subsequent fallout contributed to major political discussions within the Chinese Communist Party.

Continue Reading

Hans Nielsen

Danish motorcycle racer and champion
Born
December 26th, 1959 65 years ago

Competed in speedway racing with significant success during the 1980s and 1990s. Achieved multiple World Championship titles, establishing a reputation as one of the leading competitors in the sport. Represented Denmark in international competitions, contributing to the team's performance on the world stage.

Continue Reading

Andre Tippett

American football linebacker and coach
Born
December 27th, 1959 65 years ago

Played as a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for the New England Patriots from 1982 to 1993. Selected to the Pro Bowl five times and received the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award in 1985. Contributed to the Patriots' journey to Super Bowl XX. After retiring as a player, served as an assistant coach for various teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008.

Continue Reading

Hansjörg Kunze

German runner and sportscaster
Born
December 28th, 1959 65 years ago

Born in 1959, this figure made significant contributions in both athletics and sports broadcasting. As a long-distance runner, achieved notable successes in competitions throughout the 1980s, representing Germany in various events. Transitioned to a successful career as a sports commentator, providing insights and analysis for major events in the athletics community. The dual career in sports marked a substantial presence in both fields.

Continue Reading