What Happened This Year 1927

Born in 1927

Bill King

American sportscaster for the A's
Born
October 6th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2005 19 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent sportscaster, provided play-by-play commentary for Major League Baseball, particularly for the Oakland Athletics. Began broadcasting career in 1958, becoming the voice of the Athletics in 1970. Renowned for distinctive style and ability to capture the excitement of the game. Also covered college football and basketball, building a legacy in sports media.

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Al Martino

Singer and actor with iconic songs
Born
October 7th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1927, a successful career as a singer and actor spanned several decades. Gained fame with the hit single 'Spanish Eyes' in the 1960s. Acted in the classic film 'The Godfather' asJohnny Fontane. The music career included several chart-topping songs and appearances on television. Continued performing and recording into later years, becoming a recognizable figure in American pop culture.

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R. D. Laing

Scottish psychiatrist and author
Born
October 7th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1989 35 years ago — 61 years old

A Scottish psychiatrist, contributions focused on mental illness and how it affects individuals and society. Authored several influential books, including 'The Divided Self' and 'Knots', which explored the depth of psychosis and schizophrenia. Advocated for the understanding of mental illness within cultural contexts, challenging traditional psychiatric practices. Laing established the Philadelphia Association, promoting community-oriented mental health care. Conducted various lectures and writings that questioned conventional approaches to psychiatry, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in treatment.

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César Milstein

Biochemist, Nobel Prize laureate in Physiology
Born
October 8th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2002 23 years ago — 74 years old

An Argentinian-English biochemist, significant contributions focused on the development of monoclonal antibody technology. This breakthrough technology revolutionized biomedical research and diagnostics. Milstein's research was conducted primarily at the Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, where innovative methodologies in immunology were established. His work gained recognition in the scientific community, culminating in the award of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1984, shared with Georges Köhler and Niels K. Jerne.

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Jim Elliot

American missionary and translator
Born
October 8th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
1956 69 years ago — 29 years old

Worked as a missionary in Ecuador during the mid-20th century. Participated in a mission to the Huaorani tribe, which ultimately led to his death in 1956. Before his death, contributed to the translation of the New Testament into the language of the Huaorani people. His life and mission are chronicled in the book "Through Gates of Splendor", which discusses the events surrounding the mission and the aftermath.

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Dana Elcar

Actor in MacGyver and Spy Game
Born
October 10th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 78 years old

An American actor and director, recognized for roles in television and film. Gained significant visibility through a prominent role in the series MacGyver, where portrayed the character Norman Knowledge. Also appeared in the film Spy Game alongside Robert Redford and Brad Pitt. His contributions to television included guest appearances in various series and supporting roles throughout a career spanning several decades.

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Jim Prior

English soldier and Northern Ireland Secretary
Born
October 11th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1927, served in the British Army during World War II before entering politics. Elected to the House of Commons as a Conservative MP in 1970, gained prominence as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland from 1979 to 1981. Oversaw significant peace negotiations during a tumultuous period in Northern Irish history. Resigned from the cabinet in 1981 and later served as a life peer in the House of Lords.

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Princess Joséphine Charlotte of Belgium

Belgian princess and art patron
Born
October 11th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
January 10th, 2005 20 years ago — 77 years old

Born into the Belgian royal family, engaged in cultural and charitable activities throughout her life. Studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Brussels, fostering a deep appreciation for the arts. Actively supported various cultural initiatives and played a significant role in the promotion of the arts in Belgium. Served as a bridge between Belgium and Luxembourg due to marriage into the Grand Ducal family. Engaged in numerous charitable works, particularly in education and social welfare, contributing to various humanitarian causes until her passing in 2005.

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Lee Konitz

Saxophonist and composer of cool jazz
Born
October 13th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 93 years old

A significant figure in the cool jazz movement, played alto saxophone and composed numerous pieces. Collaborated with influential artists and participated in countless recordings throughout a career spanning over seven decades. Worked with notable bands and orchestras, contributing to the evolution of jazz during the mid-20th century. Helped popularize the harmonically rich, improvisational style of cool jazz, distinguishing it from other genres. Developed a reputation for innovative phrasing and a distinctive sound, influencing generations of saxophonists.

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