What Happened This Year 1961

Born in 1961

Timothy Geithner

Banker and 75th Treasury Secretary
Born
August 18th, 1961 63 years ago

Served as the 75th United States Secretary of the Treasury from January 2009 to January 2013. Oversaw economic policy during the financial crisis of 2007-2008. Implemented various measures to stabilize the economy and reform financial regulations. Played a significant role in the development and implementation of the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP). Was President of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York from October 2003 until June 2009, participating in monetary policy discussions and overseeing bank supervision.

Continue Reading

Huw Edwards

Welsh journalist, BBC news presenter
Born
August 18th, 1961 63 years ago

A well-regarded journalist and news presenter, primarily associated with the BBC. Gained prominence presenting major news events including general elections, royal weddings, and significant international stories. Involved in the coverage of the UK General Elections and served as the face of BBC News at Ten. Authored works discussing journalism and media.

Continue Reading

Bob Woodruff

Journalist and author, ABC News anchor
Born
August 18th, 1961 63 years ago

A journalist and author began a career at ABC News in 1996. Coverage of the Iraq War included reporting from the front lines. Sustained serious injuries from a roadside bomb in 2006, which led to a significant recovery process. Co-authored a book detailing experiences during and after the war. Contributed to various documentary films and news specials, focusing on veterans' issues. Received awards for journalism including the Edward R. Murrow Award and the George Polk Award.

Continue Reading

Jonathan Coe

English author and academic
Born
August 19th, 1961 63 years ago

Specialized in contemporary fiction and has produced several acclaimed novels. Frequently engaged with themes of social class and political history in the United Kingdom. Gained recognition for contributions to literature through both fiction and non-fiction works. Notable publications include a satirical narrative titled 'What a Carve Up!' and the poignant novel 'The Rotters' Club', reflecting on the societal changes in Britain during the 1970s. Besides fiction, contributed to critical essays and articles exploring various cultural topics.

Continue Reading

Amanda Sonia Berry

Businesswoman and television executive
Born
August 20th, 1961 63 years ago

In 1980, involvement with the British television industry began. Served as managing director of the independent production company, taking on leadership roles in prominent productions. Oversaw the development of acclaimed television shows, significantly influencing British entertainment. Played a key role in producing notable series, including 'The Royal', 'Coronation Street', and 'Emmerdale'. Acute business acumen led to successful partnerships with major broadcasting networks in the UK.

Continue Reading

Gerardo Barbero

Argentinian chess player and master
Born
August 21st, 1961 63 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2001 24 years ago — 39 years old

Achieved the title of International Master in chess. Competed in numerous national and international tournaments, showcasing exceptional skills and strategies in the game. Contributed to the chess community through teaching, fostering new talent and promoting chess in Argentina. Played a key role in popularizing chess across the nation through various events and activities.

Continue Reading

Stephen Hillenburg

Animator and creator of SpongeBob SquarePants
Born
August 21st, 1961 63 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2018 6 years ago — 57 years old

An animator, voice actor, and marine science educator, created the animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. The show premiered in 1999 and gained widespread popularity for its unique characters and humor. Prior to animation, worked as a marine biology teacher, integrating oceanic themes into later projects. Hillenburg's work contributed significantly to children's television, influencing a generation of viewers. He passed away in 2018 after a battle with ALS, leaving behind a legacy through SpongeBob SquarePants and its extensive merchandise and media adaptations.

Continue Reading

Andrés Calamaro

Argentine singer-songwriter and musician
Born
August 22nd, 1961 63 years ago

Born in Buenos Aires, a prominent figure in Latin rock and pop music, worked as a singer-songwriter and producer. Gained popularity as a member of the band Los Abuelos de la Nada during the 1980s. Later pursued a successful solo career with a distinctive style that blends rock, tango, and folklore. Released multiple influential albums, including 'El Salmón' and 'Honestidad Brutal,' which showcased a deep lyrical content and musical versatility. Collaborated with various artists across different genres and was recognized for contributions to Latin music culture.

Continue Reading

Roland Orzabal

English musician and Tears for Fears member
Born
August 22nd, 1961 63 years ago

A singer and musician, distinguished work includes being a founding member of the band Tears for Fears. The group gained prominence in the 1980s with the release of several successful albums. The album 'Songs from the Big Chair' achieved multi-platinum status and included hit singles such as 'Shout' and 'Everybody Wants to Rule the World.' Orzabal also contributed to the band's critically acclaimed album 'The Seeds of Love.'

Continue Reading