What Happened This Year 1929

Born in 1929

Earl Hooker

American blues guitarist and composer
Born
January 15th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 41 years old

An influential blues guitarist and composer, recognized for contributions to the Chicago blues genre. Played with notable musicians including Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf. Released several albums, with 'Nobody Loves Me' and 'Blue Guitar' showcasing exceptional guitar work. Created a distinctive slide guitar technique, influencing future generations of musicians.

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Jacques Plante

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
January 17th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1986 39 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1929, this ice hockey player played primarily as a goaltender. Achieved prominence in the National Hockey League (NHL) during the 1950s and 1960s. Most recognized for contributions to the Montreal Canadiens, where he won multiple championships. Transitioned into coaching and sportscasting later in career, sharing expertise and experience with audiences. His innovative goaltending techniques, including the use of the mask, changed the approach to the position for future generations.

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Tan Boon Teik

Attorney-General of Singapore
Born
January 17th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 83 years old

Served as Attorney-General of Singapore from 1963 to 1989. Played a significant role in establishing the legal framework for the newly independent nation. Contributed to the development of policies that shaped the Malaysian and Singaporean legal systems. Engaged in key cases that influenced public and private law in Singapore.

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Philip Latham

British Actor - 'The Forsyte Saga'
Born
January 17th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 91 years old

An accomplished British actor with a career spanning several decades. Worked extensively in television and film, becoming widely recognized for roles in series such as 'The Forsyte Saga' and 'The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas'. Also appeared in films and was notable for stage performances in London's West End. His work included supporting roles and significant contributions to ensemble casts, earning respect within the acting community.

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Fireball Roberts

Race car driver and NASCAR pioneer
Born
January 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1964 60 years ago — 35 years old

An influential figure in early NASCAR, contributed to the popularity of stock car racing during the 1950s. Achieved significant success on the circuit, winning numerous races and becoming a top contender. In 1962, secured victory in the prestigious Daytona 500. Known for a driving style that combined speed and strategy, raced for teams like Fireball Racing. His career came to an untimely end due to injuries sustained in a crash during the 1964 season.

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Arte Johnson

American actor and comedian, Laugh-In star
Born
January 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 90 years old

This individual gained prominence as an actor and comedian primarily through the television series 'Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In'. Frequent sketches featured humorous characters and clever wordplay, contributing significantly to the show's popularity during the late 1960s. The unique style of comedy introduced was characterized by quick, witty dialogue and absurdist humor. In addition to television, a successful career in film included appearances in several movies. Recognized for outstanding performances, this individual received an Emmy Award for work on television, further solidifying a legacy in American comedy.

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Filaret Denysenko

Ukrainian Orthodox Church Patriarch
Born
January 23rd, 1929 96 years ago

A prominent religious leader in Ukraine, served as the Patriarch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Kyiv Patriarchate. Played a key role in the church's independence from Russian influence. Engaged in efforts to promote unity among various Orthodox communities in Ukraine. His leadership witnessed significant changes in the religious landscape of the country, especially during periods of political turmoil.

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Myron Cope

Sportscaster and journalist for Pittsburgh
Born
January 23rd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2008 17 years ago — 79 years old

Myron Cope contributed significantly to sports journalism and broadcasting. Cope worked as a sportscaster for the Pittsburgh Steelers, providing play-by-play commentary and analysis for over three decades. His unique style and use of colloquial language won him a loyal audience. Cope also wrote for various publications, including the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. In 1975, Cope created the 'Terrible Towel,' an iconic symbol of Steelers' fandom, which has been used at games ever since. His innovative approach to sports commentary influenced future generations of sportscasters. Cope received numerous accolades for his contributions to sports broadcasting.

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John Polanyi

Nobel laureate chemist and academic
Born
January 23rd, 1929 96 years ago

A chemist and academic, contributions to chemical kinetics and molecular spectroscopy gained recognition. Education included studies at the University of Toronto and the University of Manchester. Research focused on the dynamics of chemical reactions, utilizing techniques like laser spectroscopy to observe molecular interactions. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1986 for work on chemisorption and energy transfer processes. Served as a professor at the University of Toronto, mentoring numerous students and continuing impactful research throughout an extensive career.

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