What Happened This Year 1929

Born in 1929

Fazlur Rahman Khan

Engineer and architect of Willis Tower
Born
April 3rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 53 years old

An engineer and architect contributed significantly to modern skyscraper design. Co-designed the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center, which are iconic structures in Chicago. Played a key role in developing the tube structure concept, revolutionizing high-rise building methods. His innovative approach allowed for taller and more stable buildings, influencing architecture worldwide. Worked with a team at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, shaping the skyline of Chicago and advancing architectural engineering.

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Humbert Allen Astredo

American actor from 'Dark Shadows' series
Born
April 4th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1929, a prominent American actor, Astredo featured in the television series 'Dark Shadows' portraying the character of the vampire, Count Bruno. He also appeared in various other films and television shows throughout his career. Astredo's performances contributed to the legacy of horror and gothic storytelling in American media. His career spanned multiple decades, showcasing his versatility in both dramatic and supernatural roles.

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Nigel Hawthorne

Actor acclaimed for 'The Madness of King George'
Born
April 5th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2001 23 years ago — 72 years old

An English actor and producer, gained prominence for performances in theater and film. Achieved success with roles in various productions, particularly in the film 'The Madness of King George' as King George III. Also starred in the television series 'Yes Minister' and its sequel 'Yes, Prime Minister'. His career spanned several decades during which he received critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including two BAFTA Awards for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Contributed significantly to both stage and screen, leaving a lasting legacy in the performing arts.

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Joe Meek

English songwriter and music producer
Born
April 5th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1967 58 years ago — 37 years old

A prominent figure in the British music scene, this individual was a pioneering record producer and songwriter. He gained significant attention during the early 1960s for innovative recording techniques and a unique sound that defined the era. Often associated with the rise of the British pop music scene, this individual produced notable hits for various artists, contributing to the shaping of popular music in the UK. Worked with some of the most influential acts of the time, leaving a lasting legacy in music production.

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Mahmoud Mollaghasemi

Iranian wrestler and Olympic Champion
Born
April 5th, 1929 95 years ago

Born in 1929, this individual excelled in Greco-Roman wrestling, representing Iran at various international competitions. Achieved significant success during the 1950s and 1960s, culminating in a gold medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Participated in multiple World Wrestling Championships, securing several medals and establishing a reputation in the wrestling community.

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Hugo Claus

Belgian author and playwright
Born
April 5th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2008 16 years ago — 78 years old

An influential Belgian author, poet, and playwright, this figure contributed significantly to the Dutch literature scene. Renowned works include the novel 'The Sorrow of Belgium' and the play 'Dance of Death.' Claus's literary career was marked by a blend of themes reflecting Belgian society and personal experiences. The completion of a trilogy highlighted his prowess in dramatic literature. His poetry often explored existential themes, contributing to the richness of Flemish literature. Claus also worked as a screenwriter and directed several films, extending his creative reach.

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Ivar Giaever

Physicist; Nobel Prize in Physics winner
Born
April 5th, 1929 95 years ago

Born in Norway, a physicist moved to the United States for further studies and academic work. Contributed significantly to the field of condensed matter physics, particularly in the area of superconductivity. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1973 for discoveries related to tunneling phenomena in semiconductors. Held academic positions at several institutions, mentoring students and influencing research within the field.

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Joi Lansing

Actress and singer in 1950s films
Born
April 6th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1972 52 years ago — 43 years old

Active in the 1950s, this individual gained recognition as a model, nightclub singer, and actress. Appeared in several film roles that showcased her talent, including significant parts in 'The Stratton Story' and 'The All-American.' As a singer, performed in various nightclubs across the United States, contributing to the entertainment scene of the era.

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Christos Sartzetakis

Greek Supreme Court Justice and President
Born
April 6th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a Supreme Court Justice and later as President of Greece. During the presidency from 1985 to 1990, focused on strengthening democratic institutions in the post-junta era. Contributed to legal reforms and upholding justice within the Greek legal system.

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