What Happened This Year 1927

Born in 1927

Bill Yeoman

College football coach and player
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2020 4 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed to college football as a player and coach. Played as a quarterback at the University of Houston. Served as the head coach for the University of Houston from 1962 to 1986, where contributed to the team's rise in the sport. Developed the veer offense, influencing football tactics in the college game. Achieved notable success including multiple conference championships and bowl game appearances during tenure.

Continue Reading

Clyde Kennard

Civil Rights Activist and Martyr
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1963 61 years ago — 36 years old

An activist focused on civil rights, played a significant role in the campaign to integrate higher education in the United States. Enrolled as a student at Mississippi Southern College, faced violent opposition and was wrongfully convicted on charges of attempting to steal chickens. This conviction was widely regarded as a racially motivated injustice. Advocated for educational equality and was involved in various civil rights efforts during a turbulent time in American history. Died in 1963, drawing attention to the struggles for racial equality in the South.

Continue Reading

George Busbee

Governor of Georgia, lawyer
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2004 20 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the 77th Governor of Georgia from 1975 to 1983. Focused on educational reforms and economic development during tenure. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Georgia International Convention Center. Advocated for major infrastructure improvements and was instrumental in the state's response to various challenges.

Continue Reading

Robert Neil Butler

American physician and author of 'Why Survive?'
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2010 14 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent physician and gerontologist, focused on aging and elder care. Authored a seminal work, 'Why Survive? Being Old in America,' which addressed issues surrounding aging. Served as the director of the National Institute on Aging from 1977 to 1982, contributing to the advancement of research on aging and health. Founded the American Association of Geriatric Psychiatry and played a pivotal role in advocating for mental health care for the elderly.

Continue Reading

Henri Dirickx

Belgian footballer and coach
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2018 6 years ago — 91 years old

Played as a forward in football, Dirickx had a notable career primarily with RSC Anderlecht. Transitioned to a coaching role after retirement, contributing to the development of the sport in Belgium. His expertise and experience in football were utilized at various clubs, enhancing team strategies and player performance. Engaged with youth development, focusing on nurturing future talents in football. Dirickx left a legacy as both a player and coach in the Belgian football community.

Continue Reading

Alan Oakley

Bicycle designer, Raleigh Chopper creator
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2012 12 years ago — 85 years old

An English bicycle designer, contributed to the design and development of the iconic Raleigh Chopper bicycle. The Raleigh Chopper, released in the early 1970s, became a cultural phenomenon and a symbol of youth culture during that era. Oakley's innovative design featured a long frame and distinctive handlebars, making it a popular choice among children and teenagers in Britain. His work with Raleigh also involved various other bicycle designs that played a role in the industry's evolution during the 20th century.

Continue Reading

Pat Paulsen

Comedian and political satirist
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1997 27 years ago — 70 years old

Started a career in entertainment as a stand-up comedian and gained prominence in the 1960s. Became recognized for satirical political commentary, particularly during the presidential campaigns of the 1960s and 1970s. Gained a platform through performances on television, including appearances on 'The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour' and 'The Tonight Show'. Championed various social causes, frequently highlighting civil rights and anti-war sentiments through humor. Ran for President of the United States as a parody candidate in 1968 and 1972, utilizing the platform to draw attention to the political process and engage the public in discussions about governance.

Continue Reading

Patsy Mink

American lawyer and politician
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2002 22 years ago — 75 years old

Played a significant role in American politics as a U.S. Representative from Hawaii. Advocated for educational and civil rights legislation, particularly the Title IX amendment that prohibits gender discrimination in federally funded education programs. Contributed to various legislative efforts addressing issues affecting women, children, and minorities throughout a career spanning over 24 years in Congress.

Continue Reading

Wally Hergesheimer

Ice hockey player for the New York Rangers
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2014 10 years ago — 87 years old

Played in the National Hockey League during the 1940s and 1950s. Primarily played as a forward. Played for the New York Rangers and the Boston Bruins. Contributed to the teams with scoring and playmaking abilities. Retired from professional hockey and later transitioned to coaching at various levels. Also participated in amateur leagues and events after retirement.

Continue Reading