What Happened This Year 1959

Born in 1959

Orlando Woolridge

Basketball player and coach, NBA veteran
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2012 13 years ago — 53 years old

A professional basketball player and coach contributed significantly to the sport. Played college basketball at Notre Dame before being selected by the Chicago Bulls in the 1981 NBA Draft. Played as a forward for multiple teams, including the New Jersey Nets and the Los Angeles Lakers. Known for a scoring ability and athleticism throughout a career that spanned over a decade. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from playing, guiding teams in various capacities. His contributions to the game continue to be recognized within the basketball community.

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Ben Linder

Engineer and activist in Nicaragua
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1987 38 years ago — 28 years old

Contributed to the Nicaraguan Sandinista revolution as an engineer. Worked on projects to help rebuild the infrastructure of Nicaragua following the civil conflict. Focused on sustainable development and promoted the use of renewable energy sources. Became involved in humanitarian efforts and was a vocal advocate for social justice, working to improve the lives of marginalized communities. Assassinated while engaged in these activities, which drew attention to the challenges faced by those in conflict zones.

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Leila Lopes

Brazilian actress and journalist
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 2009 16 years ago — 50 years old

Born in Brazil, Lopes gained prominence as both an actress and journalist. She achieved widespread recognition for her roles in various Brazilian telenovelas, contributing significantly to the television landscape. Her work as a journalist further showcased her versatility and commitment to storytelling, engaging audiences through various media platforms. With a career spanning several decades, Lopes left a memorable mark in the Brazilian entertainment industry before her passing in 2009.

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Sanjay Surkar

Director and screenwriter of Marathi cinema
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 53 years old

Directed films primarily in Marathi cinema, contributing significantly to the industry. Wrote and directed several acclaimed movies that resonated with audiences. Work included socially relevant themes and explored various aspects of Maharashtrian culture. Recognized for crafting compelling narratives and character-driven stories.

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Guru Dhanapal

Indian director and producer of films
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
April 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 55 years old

This individual directed and produced several notable films in the Tamil film industry. The work in cinema spanned multiple genres, contributing to the growth and popularity of Tamil films. Talents included collaboration with various actors and technical teams to create impactful stories. Active in the film industry for many decades, projects often featured innovative narratives and strong character development.

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Aronda Nyakairima

Ugandan general and politician
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2015 10 years ago — 56 years old

Served as a general in the Uganda People's Defence Force and held the position of Minister of Internal Affairs. Played a significant role in military operations during the LRA conflict and served as Commander of the Land Forces. Contributed to national security strategies and reforms within the military. His tenure included involvement in peacekeeping missions and internal security matters in Uganda.

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Bashir Ahmed Qureshi

Pakistani politician, served as MNA
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2012 13 years ago — 53 years old

Elected as a Member of the National Assembly in Pakistan. Held the position from 2002 to 2007 representing the Pakistan Muslim League. Actively participated in legislative processes and local governance during tenure. Advocated for various development projects and public policies in the region.

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Margita Stefanović

Serbian keyboard player and composer
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2002 23 years ago — 43 years old

A prominent keyboard player and composer, contributed significantly to the music scene in Serbia. Participated in the popular group 'Riblja Čorba' and collaborated with various artists throughout a prolific career. Instrumental in the development of keyboard music in the region, blending traditional and contemporary styles. Also composed pieces that showcased musical versatility and creativity.

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Roger Agnelli

Brazilian banker and businessman
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2016 9 years ago — 57 years old

A Brazilian banker and businessman, held the position of CEO at Vale S.A., one of the largest mining companies in the world. Instrumental in transforming Vale into a global leader in the mining sector, focusing on iron ore and nickel production. Advocated for expansion and modernization, leading the company to significant growth during tenure. Under leadership, Vale achieved its highest revenues in 2011. Contributed to the strategic direction and international presence of the company before departing in 2011.

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