What Happened This Year 1927

Born in 1927

Wally Grout

Australian cricketer and wicket-keeper
Born
March 30th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent cricketer, made significant contributions as a wicket-keeper for Australia during the 1950s and 1960s. Accumulated 139 dismissals in Test matches, ranking among the top wicket-keepers of the era. Played a key role in the Australian team that won the 1958-59 Ashes series against England and participated in the 1960-61 series. His skills behind the stumps were complemented by useful lower-order batting, contributing to numerous victories on the international stage.

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William Daniels

American actor in 'Boy Meets World'
Born
March 31st, 1927 97 years ago

An American actor born in 1927, this individual gained recognition for his role as George Feeny in the television series 'Boy Meets World' and its sequel, 'Girl Meets World'. With a career spanning several decades, involvement in theater and voice acting also marked this individual's contributions, particularly voicing KITT in the popular television series 'Knight Rider'. The versatility in performance included both dramatic and comedic roles across various media, showcasing a robust talent in acting.

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Vladimir Ilyushin

Russian aviator and aircraft designer
Born
March 31st, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 83 years old

Served as a test pilot and contributed to the development of significant aircraft designs. Worked for the Ilyushin Design Bureau, where various military and civilian aircraft were produced. Developed and flew the Ilyushin Il-28, a notable jet bomber that entered service in the late 1940s. Engaged in pioneering aviation tests and was instrumental in ushering in advancements in Soviet aviation technology.

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Cesar Chavez

Labor union leader and civil rights activist
Born
March 31st, 1927 97 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1993 31 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1927, a prominent labor leader and civil rights activist dedicated to improving conditions for farm workers. Co-founded the United Farm Workers (UFW) in 1962, advocating for labor rights through nonviolent protests and strikes. Instrumental in garnering national attention for the plight of agricultural workers in the United States. His efforts included leading California grape boycotts, which resulted in improved wages and working conditions. Worked closely with other civil rights leaders to address social justice issues affecting marginalized communities.

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Eduardo Martínez Somalo

Spanish cardinal and church official
Born
March 31st, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 94 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1953, served in various roles within the Catholic Church, including positions in the Vatican. Appointed as the Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in 1998, overseeing the procedures for canonization. Participated in several papal conclaves, contributing to the selection of popes.

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Ferenc Puskás

Hungarian footballer and coach
Born
April 1st, 1927 97 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2006 18 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in football, excelled as a forward, played for Budapest Honvéd and Real Madrid. Achieved considerable success at Real Madrid, winning multiple European Cups. Managed several teams after retiring as a player, including the Hungarian national team. Puskás contributed to football's global appeal and left a lasting legacy in the sport.

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Walter Bahr

Soccer player and coach, 1950 World Cup
Born
April 1st, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent soccer player and coach, made significant contributions to American soccer during the mid-20th century. Played as a halfback and earned recognition for participation in the 1950 FIFA World Cup, where the United States defeated England in a historic upset. Transitioned into coaching, further shaping the sport in the United States and influencing multiple generations of players. Served as a coach at both collegiate and professional levels, enhancing the skill and tactical understanding of American soccer.

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Amos Milburn

R&B singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
April 1st, 1927 97 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1927, this American musician made significant contributions to the rhythm and blues genre during the 1940s and 1950s. Milburn gained prominence with his energetic piano style and vocal delivery. His work influenced the development of rhythm and blues and paved the way for future artists. Numerous hit records garnered attention, particularly in the post-war period, leading to a dedicated fan base. This musician's career encompassed a blend of original compositions and popular covers, solidifying his position in the music industry.

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Carmen Basilio

Boxer and World Welterweight Champion
Born
April 2nd, 1927 97 years ago
Died
November 7th, 2012 12 years ago — 85 years old

A boxer achieved significant success in the welterweight and middleweight divisions during the 1950s. Captured the World Welterweight Championship in 1957 by defeating Johnny Saxton and later won the World Middleweight Championship by defeating Gene Fullmer in 1959. Basilio served in the United States Army during World War II and was recognized for his contributions both in the ring and in service. Combat sports legacy includes notable bouts against future legends such as Sugar Ray Robinson.

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