What Happened This Year 1929

Born in 1929

Cecil Taylor

American pianist and avant-garde composer
Born
March 25th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 89 years old

Cecil Taylor was an American pianist and composer associated with avant-garde jazz. Starting in the late 1950s, he developed a unique approach to improvisation and composition, blending elements of free jazz with classical influences. Taylor formed key groups and ensembles that contributed to the evolution of jazz, pushing the boundaries of rhythm and harmonic structure. His performances were marked by a distinctive style characterized by high energy and intricate, percussive piano work. Throughout his career, Taylor recorded numerous albums and collaborated with various artists in the jazz and contemporary music scenes.

Continue Reading

Edwin Turney

Businessman, co-founder of AMD
Born
March 26th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 79 years old

Co-founded Advanced Micro Devices in 1969, which became a key player in the semiconductor industry. Played a significant role in the development of microprocessors that powered personal computers. Contributed to the establishment of AMD as a competitor to Intel in the technology sector.

Continue Reading

Charles Dumont

French singer and composer of chansons
Born
March 26th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2024 0 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent figure in French music, this singer and composer emerged in the 1950s and gained recognition for contributions to the chanson genre. Created numerous songs that became classics in French culture, with notable works including 'La Vie en rose' and 'Parce que je t'aime.' Collaborated with various artists and provided songs for films, enriching the soundtracks of his time. His style often blended romantic themes with poetic lyrics, appealing to a wide audience in France and beyond.

Continue Reading

Anne Ramsey

American actress known for The Goonies
Born
March 27th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1988 36 years ago — 59 years old

An accomplished actress gained recognition for her roles in film and television during the latter half of the 20th century. Portrayed the memorable character Mama Fratelli in the 1985 adventure comedy film The Goonies. Appeared in the television series Room 222 and garnered a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for the show. Continued to work in various roles until her passing.

Continue Reading

Richard Lewontin

Biologist and geneticist, evolutionist
Born
March 29th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 92 years old

Contributions focused on population genetics and evolutionary biology. Worked on the concept of genetic diversity and its implications for evolution. Engaged in the debate on the role of genetics and environment in human behavior. Served as a professor at Harvard University, influencing many students and researchers in the field of biology.

Continue Reading

Sheila Kitzinger

Childbirth activist and author
Born
March 29th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 86 years old

An influential childbirth activist and author, focused on women's rights in maternity care. Published numerous books on childbirth and women's experiences, including 'The Childbirth Book' and 'Women as Mothers.' Engaged in discussions surrounding the medicalization of childbirth and advocated for women's autonomy in childbirth choices. Worked alongside various organizations to promote midwifery and respectful maternity care, contributing to the dialogue on women's rights in healthcare settings.

Continue Reading

Utpal Dutt

Indian actor and playwright
Born
March 29th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1993 31 years ago — 64 years old

An influential figure in Indian theater and film, this actor gained acclaim for work in Hindi cinema. Dutt served as a prominent figure in Bengali theater, contributing significantly as both director and playwright. Notable films included 'Gol Maal' and 'Chhoti Si Baat'. Dutt's theatrical contributions extended to founding the Little Theatre Group in Kolkata, which focused on interpretable and meaningful performances. Recognized for a distinct acting style, Dutt remained active in regional and national theater until his later years.

Continue Reading

Lennart Meri

Estonian politician and director, 2nd President
Born
March 29th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2006 19 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the second President of Estonia from 1999 to 2001. Directed films that highlighted Estonia's culture and history. Played a significant role in Estonia's independence movement and its integration into international organizations. As a politician, focused on strengthening national identity and promoting Estonian language and culture.

Continue Reading

István Rózsavölgyi

Hungarian runner Olympic participant
Born
March 30th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Hungary in 1929, a runner specialized in middle-distance events. Competed in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, representing the national team. Participated in the 1500 meters and contributed to Hungary's athletic presence on the international stage.

Continue Reading