What Happened This Year 1929

Born in 1929

Benny Golson

Saxophonist and composer of jazz classics
Born
January 25th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2024 0 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent jazz saxophonist and composer, contributed significantly to the genre with a career spanning several decades. Played with influential figures such as Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers, and formed the group The Jazztet. Composed many well-known jazz standards, including "Killer Joe" and "Whisper Not." Involved in various collaborations and projects, continuing to perform and teach jazz internationally.

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Robert Faurisson

Author and academic specializing in history
Born
January 25th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 89 years old

An English-French author and academic focused on historical revisionism. Significant contributions included works on World War II and the Holocaust, where controversial claims challenged prevailing narratives. Faurisson's writings sparked considerable debate and led to legal actions regarding hate speech in France. His academic career included teaching positions and publication of numerous articles on historical topics, often leading to criticism and accusations of antisemitism. Despite controversies, engaged in public discussions and debates regarding freedom of speech and historiography.

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Elizabeth Allen

American actress and singer known for musicals
Born
January 25th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2006 18 years ago — 77 years old

An actress and singer born in 1929, gained prominence through performances in musical theatre and film. Appeared in the Broadway production of 'Bye Bye Birdie' and appeared in television shows like 'The Ed Sullivan Show'. Had a successful career in both music and acting, contributing to various productions throughout the mid-20th century.

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Jules Feiffer

Cartoonist and playwright; wrote 'Little Murders'
Born
January 26th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2025 0 years ago — 95 years old

An influential cartoonist and playwright, contributed significantly to American humor and satire. Created the comic strip 'Feiffer', which ran for six decades in various publications. Worked in theater as a playwright and won a Tony Award for the play 'Little Murders'. Co-wrote the screenplay for the film 'Carnal Knowledge', which received an Academy Award nomination. Served as a professor, teaching cartooning and graphic novel courses at several institutions.

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Gastón Suárez

Bolivian author and playwright
Born
January 27th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
November 6th, 1984 40 years ago — 55 years old

An influential author and playwright, contributions primarily focused on Bolivian culture and society. Writings reflected on various aspects of life in Bolivia, using theater as a medium to convey social messages and explore human experiences. Worked to promote Bolivian literature and theater, inspiring future generations of writers and performers. Developed a notable body of work that includes both plays and essays.

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Mohamed Al-Fayed

Businessman and former owner of Harrods
Born
January 27th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 94 years old

Born in Egypt, a businessman established a successful career in retail and hospitality. Acquired the luxury department store Harrods in 1985, transforming it into a prominent shopping destination. Engaged in various business ventures, including ownership of the Ritz Hotel in Paris. Additionally, involved in football through ownership of Fulham F.C., where significant financial investments were made to improve the club's performance in the Premier League.

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Claes Oldenburg

Sculptor of large-scale pop art
Born
January 28th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 93 years old

Born in Sweden and later moving to the United States, this sculptor gained prominence for large-scale public installations and soft sculptures that played with themes of consumerism and everyday objects. Works included iconic pieces such as 'Giant BLT' and 'Soft Toilet.' Initially began as an illustrator, transitioning into sculpture with a unique artistic vision that redefined the perception of art and its relationship to objects in daily life. Collaborated in the 1970s on the 'Store' installation, which blended artistic space with commercial aesthetics, further exemplifying the merging of art with popular culture. These creative expressions often served as critiques of consumer culture and shaped the landscape of contemporary art.

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Acker Bilk

English clarinet player and singer
Born
January 28th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2014 10 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent English clarinet player and singer, gained fame in the 1960s. Developed a unique style of performance that combined traditional jazz and popular music. Achieved significant success with the single 'Stranger on the Shore,' which became a major hit and topped the charts in 1961. His music featured a distinctive sound characterized by clear, smooth clarinet tones and engaging vocals, often performing in a traditional jazz ensemble. Continued to perform and record music for decades, maintaining a devoted following.

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Edith M. Flanigen

Chemist and zeolite researcher
Born
January 28th, 1929 96 years ago

Significant contributions to the field of chemistry occurred throughout a career spanning several decades. Research focused on zeolites, leading to advancements in catalysis and molecular sieves. Authored numerous research papers and held patents related to the synthesis and application of these materials. Affiliated with the General Electric Company, where extensive studies on zeolite adsorption properties were conducted. Recognized by peer organizations for innovations in chemistry and material science.

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