What Happened This Year 1927

Born in 1927

James B. Edwards

American Politician & 3rd Secretary of Energy
Born
June 24th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2014 10 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1927, a career spanned dentistry, military service, and politics. Served as the 3rd United States Secretary of Energy from 1981 to 1982 under President Ronald Reagan. Edwards was the Governor of South Carolina from 1975 to 1979, overseeing state initiatives and healthcare reforms. Also a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, served in the Korean War.

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Arnold Wolfendale

Astronomer and academic with publications
Born
June 25th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 93 years old

An English astronomer and academic, who contributed to the understanding of cosmic rays and the study of pulsars. Worked at the University of Durham, serving as a professor of physics and maintaining a focus on astrophysics. Published numerous papers and books on astronomical topics, providing valuable insights into the workings of the universe. Held the position of president of the Royal Astronomical Society from 1991 to 1993, promoting research and education in the field of astronomy throughout his career.

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Bob Keeshan

Television presenter of 'Captain Kangaroo'
Born
June 27th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2004 21 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent television personality and producer, Keeshan created and starred in the educational children's program 'Captain Kangaroo', which aired for nearly 30 years. The show provided entertainment along with educational content for young audiences, fostering an environment of learning through fun characters and stories. Keeshan's work in television began at a young age, and over the decades, he became a trusted figure for generations of children and parents alike. In addition to 'Captain Kangaroo', Keeshan was involved in various philanthropic efforts that focused on children's education and well-being.

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Frank Sherwood Rowland

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 28th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
March 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 84 years old

An American chemist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of atmospheric chemistry. Rowland’s research focused on the depletion of the ozone layer caused by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). This work led to international policy changes to protect the ozone layer. Rowland served as a professor at the University of California, Irvine, where he conducted much of his pivotal research. In 1995, Rowland received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for this groundbreaking work alongside Mario J. Molina and Paul Crutzen.

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James Goldman

American screenwriter and playwright
Born
June 30th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in American theatre and film, this individual created compelling narratives that won critical acclaim. The screenplay for the film adaptation of 'The Lion in Winter' garnered an Academy Award for Best Screenplay. The playwright crafted the successful stage play 'Follies', which premiered on Broadway in 1971 and became a significant part of musical theatre history. Contributions spanned across multiple genres, with works adapted for both stage and screen, earning numerous accolades throughout a distinguished career.

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Shirley Fry Irvin

Tennis player and Grand Slam champion
Born
June 30th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 94 years old

This individual excelled in tennis during the mid-20th century. Achievements included winning multiple Grand Slam singles and doubles titles, contributing to the development of women's tennis in the United States. After turning professional, career milestones included victories at the U.S. Championships and the French Championships. Active in the sport for several decades, this athlete also participated in numerous international team competitions, including the Wightman Cup, representing the United States.

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Frank McCabe

American basketball player, NBA champion
Born
June 30th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 94 years old

Played professional basketball in the National Basketball Association. Contributed to the success of the New York Knicks during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Achieved a championship title with the Knicks in 1970. His career in basketball spanned several seasons, highlighting skill and teamwork on the court.

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Mario Lanfranchi

Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
June 30th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 95 years old

A director, screenwriter, producer, collector, and actor, contributed significantly to Italian cinema. Worked primarily in the 1960s and 1970s, directing and producing various films and television series. Gained recognition for collaborations with notable actors and participating in the development of iconic works in the genre of Italian cinema. In addition to directing, engaged in film production and was associated with multiple influential projects.

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Winfield Dunn

American politician, 43rd Governor
Born
July 1st, 1927 97 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2024 0 years ago — 97 years old

Served as the 43rd Governor of Tennessee from 1971 to 1975. Prior to the governorship, held the position of mayor of Memphis. Played a significant role in Tennessee's educational reforms and fiscal policies during tenure. After leaving office, continued to be active in business and civic affairs.

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