What Happened This Year 1961

Born in 1961

Jim Harris

Environmentalist and former politician
Born
February 12th, 1961 64 years ago

An environmentalist and politician, played a significant role in promoting sustainable practices in Canada. Co-founded the Green Party of Canada and served as its leader from 2000 to 2006. Advocated for environmental policies during his tenure and contributed to the integration of green issues into Canadian politics. Worked as a consultant and speaker on environmental matters post-political career, highlighting the importance of ecological sustainability.

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Michel Martelly

Singer and 56th President of Haiti
Born
February 12th, 1961 64 years ago

Born in Haiti, this individual gained popularity as a musician before entering politics. As a singer, contributed to the kompa genre and released several successful albums. Transitioned to the political arena and won the presidential election in 2010. Served as Haiti's 56th president from 2011 to 2016, focusing on national reconstruction and economic development following the 2010 earthquake. His tenure included efforts to improve infrastructure and promote tourism.

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Henry Rollins

Singer-songwriter and actor focused on punk
Born
February 13th, 1961 64 years ago

An American singer-songwriter, producer, and actor, contributed significantly to the punk rock scene as the lead vocalist of the band Black Flag from 1981 to 1986. Transitioned to a solo career with a focus on spoken word performance and music. Also appeared in films and television, including the series 'Sons of Anarchy' and movies such as 'Heat'. In addition to musical pursuits, produced documentaries and hosted talk shows, showcasing a range of topics from politics to culture.

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cEvin Key

Canadian singer-songwriter and producer
Born
February 13th, 1961 64 years ago

Born in 1961, a Canadian musician, songwriter, and producer established a prominent position in the music scene. Co-founded the influential band Skinny Puppy, which played a significant role in the development of the industrial music genre. Also involved in various side projects, including Download and Doubting Thomas, contributing to the evolution of electronic and experimental music. The career spans several decades, with numerous albums and collaborations that showcase versatility and innovation in sound.

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Marc Crawford

Ice Hockey Coach and Player
Born
February 13th, 1961 64 years ago

Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a left winger for teams including the Vancouver Canucks and the Los Angeles Kings. Transitioned into coaching and led the Colorado Avalanche to a Stanley Cup championship in 1996. Served as head coach for several NHL teams, including the Atlanta Thrashers and the Dallas Stars.

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Angela Eagle

English politician, Shadow Leader
Born
February 17th, 1961 64 years ago

Served as a Member of Parliament since 1992, representing the Labour Party. Held the position of Shadow Leader of the House of Commons, focusing on legislative strategy and parliamentary business for the opposition. Engaged in various roles within the party, including Minister for Pensions and Minister for Women and Equalities. Actively contributed to debates on economic policy and women's rights.

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Andrey Korotayev

Russian anthropologist and historian
Born
February 17th, 1961 64 years ago

An anthropologist, historian, and sociologist engaged in studying historical dynamics and social evolution. Contributed to the field of social anthropology with an emphasis on the use of mathematical methods in social sciences. Explored complex systems, socio-cultural evolution, and social macrodynamics, focusing on the interplay between historical processes and societal change. Participated in various international academic collaborations, promoting interdisciplinary research.

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Maria Eagle

English politician, Shadow Secretary of State for Defence
Born
February 17th, 1961 64 years ago

An English politician served as a Member of Parliament for Liverpool Garston and Halewood since 1997. Played a significant role in various government positions, including Minister of State for Transport and Minister for Justice. In 2015, appointed as Shadow Secretary of State for Defence, contributing to discussions on national security and military policy. Advocated for women’s rights and environmental issues during tenure.

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Justin Fashanu

Footballer and first openly gay player
Born
February 19th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1998 26 years ago — 37 years old

Played professional football primarily as a forward. Fashanu began his career at Norwich City, earning a reputation for his skill and agility on the pitch. He transferred to Nottingham Forest where he played under legendary manager Brian Clough. In the early 1990s, he became the first professional footballer in the UK to come out as gay, a notable milestone in sports history. His career included playing for various clubs across England and brief stints in the United States. Fashanu also represented the England U-21 team, gaining recognition for his talent at a young age.

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