Stein Eriksen

Norwegian-American Olympic skier

Stein Eriksen - Athletes & Sports Figures born 1927
Born

1927
99 years ago

Died
Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Norway

Links & References

Originated from Norway, celebrated for excellence in alpine skiing. Competed in the 1952 Winter Olympics and clinched the gold medal in slalom and silver in giant slalom. Also played a pivotal role in advancing the sport in the United States after moving there. Besides racing, involved in ski instruction and promotion of skiing as a recreational sport, contributing to the development of ski resorts.

Won the gold medal in slalom at the 1952 Winter Olympics

Secured silver in giant slalom at the 1952 Winter Olympics

Other People Who Died on December 27th

Jack Swigert

Apollo 13 astronaut and pilot
Born
August 30th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1982 43 years ago — 51 years old

A pilot and astronaut, served as the Lunar Module Pilot for Apollo 13. Joined NASA in 1966, contributing to the Apollo program. After his time with NASA, engaged in various aviation and business roles. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Colorado’s 6th congressional district posthumously.

Continue Reading

Achilles Alferaki

Russian composer and politician
Born
July 3rd, 1846 180 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1919 106 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1846, a prominent composer and politician in Russia, served as the Governor of Taganrog. Contributed significantly to the musical landscape of the region while engaging in political affairs. His compositions reflected the cultural milieu of 19th-century Russia. Maintained a dual focus on both governance and music, illustrating a commitment to public service and artistic expression.

Continue Reading

Rewi Alley

Writer and political activist
Born
December 2nd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1987 38 years ago — 90 years old

A writer and political activist associated with New Zealand, played a significant role in the Chinese revolution and social movements. Spent many years in China, contributing to literature and education. Established schools and worked with various organizations to promote literacy and social welfare. Wrote extensively about his experiences in China and advocated for cooperative farming and rural development.

Continue Reading

Julian Tuwim

Polish poet and playwright, wrote 'The Locomotive'
Born
September 13th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1953 72 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1894, a significant figure in Polish literature, especially noted for works in poetry, drama, and children's literature. Tuwim was part of the Skamander group of poets, which aimed to revitalize Polish poetry. His poetry often combined humor with serious themes, making it accessible yet profound. Notably, 'The Locomotive' became a classic in Polish children's literature. Active in the interwar period and later during World War II, Tuwim contributed to the Polish cultural scene, writing plays and poetry that resonated with the challenges of his time. Following the war, he continued to write and support the arts until his death in 1953.

Continue Reading

Chris Bell

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, Big Star
Born
January 12th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1978 47 years ago — 27 years old

A prominent figure in the power pop genre, this musician formed the band Big Star in the early 1970s, which gained critical acclaim despite limited commercial success. The band's albums, particularly 'No Sex' and 'Radio City', featured innovative songwriting and arrangements and have since influenced many artists. Following Big Star, this artist pursued a solo career, producing the album 'I Am the Cosmos', which showcased songwriting skills and melodic sensibility. His work garnered recognition retrospectively, influencing future generations in alternative rock.

Continue Reading

Kay Boyle

American novelist and short story writer
Born
February 19th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1992 33 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1902, this individual dedicated a significant portion of life to writing and education. Educated at the University of Washington and the Sorbonne, contributions to literature included novels, short stories, and essays. Many works reflected concerns about social justice and human rights, and some gained attention in the literary community. The individual also taught writing at universities, influencing a generation of writers with a focus on narrative techniques and innovative forms.

Continue Reading