What Happened This Year 1929

Born in 1929

Józef Glemp

Polish Cardinal and Church leader
Born
December 18th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the Primate of Poland from 1981 to 2009. Played a significant role during the transition of Poland from communism to democracy. Participated in the 1980 World Synod of Bishops and was influential in Polish Catholicism. Engaged in ecumenical dialogue with other Christian denominations and took part in the establishment of the Polish bishops' conference.

Continue Reading

Bob Brookmeyer

Trombonist and composer of jazz music
Born
December 19th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2011 13 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent figure in jazz, Brookmeyer contributed significantly as a trombonist, pianist, and composer. He was a key member of the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra, which helped redefine big band jazz. In addition to performing, he composed various works for jazz ensembles and smaller groups. Throughout his career, he collaborated with renowned artists such as Stan Getz and Clark Terry, and his innovative approaches to jazz arrangements were influential among musicians. Brookmeyer was also an educator, imparting knowledge about jazz performance and theory to students and aspiring musicians.

Continue Reading

Howard Sackler

Playwright and Screenwriter of "The Great White Hope"
Born
December 19th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent American playwright and screenwriter, contributions include the acclaimed 1967 play "The Great White Hope," which explored the racial dynamics in boxing. The play received a Tony Award for Best Play and was adapted into a film in 1970, further increasing its visibility and significance. Sackler also wrote for television and contributed to filmmaking, enhancing narratives around societal issues. His work often reflected the cultural landscape of America during the civil rights movement, as it engaged with themes of race and identity. Throughout his career, he garnered recognition within the theater community and left a lasting legacy.

Continue Reading

Don Sunderlage

American basketball player, college standout
Born
December 20th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 32 years old

A basketball player, Sunderlage excelled at the University of Illinois during the late 1940s and early 1950s. He played for the Fighting Illini, where he achieved notable success and contributed to the team's competitive spirit. Following college, a professional career ensued, where Sunderlage continued to showcase his skills on the court. He became recognized for his contributions to basketball during that era. After retiring, he remained active in the basketball community, influencing younger generations of players.

Continue Reading

Chet Baker

Jazz Trumpet Player and Singer
Born
December 23rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1988 36 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent jazz trumpet player, flugelhorn player, and singer, this individual significantly contributed to the West Coast jazz scene during the 1950s. Recognized for a distinct style and warm tone, performances showcased unique improvisation and a delicate vocal quality. Album releases such as 'Chet Baker Sings' garnered critical recognition and brought a new audience to jazz music. Collaborated with various artists, shaping the genre's evolution during a pivotal period. Struggled with personal challenges yet continued to perform and record music until later in life.

Continue Reading

Dick Weber

Professional bowler and PBA champion
Born
December 23rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in professional bowling, Weber competed in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) and achieved significant accolades throughout a career spanning multiple decades. Weber won 26 PBA Tour titles, including the prestigious PBA National Championship in 1970. He was a key figure in popularizing the sport and served as a mentor to many aspiring bowlers. Weber was inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame in 1975 and the ABC (American Bowling Congress) Hall of Fame in 1987. His contributions to the sport have influenced generations of bowlers.

Continue Reading

Red Sullivan

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
December 24th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 90 years old

A Canadian ice hockey player and coach, achieved recognition for contributions to the sport both on and off the ice. Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the New York Rangers and the Boston Bruins. Transitioned to a coaching role after retirement from playing, leading various teams in the minor leagues and the NHL. Also served as an executive for the NHL.

Continue Reading

Lennart Skoglund

Swedish footballer with significant impact
Born
December 24th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 46 years old

A Swedish footballer played as a winger and gained recognition for his contributions to the sport. Skoglund began his professional career with Hammarby IF and later moved to Inter Milan, where he became part of the team winning Serie A titles. His playing style and skill on the field earned respect from teammates and opponents alike. After his stint in Italy, he returned to play in Sweden, where he continued to make contributions to the sport until retirement.

Continue Reading

China Machado

Fashion model and television producer
Born
December 25th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 87 years old

Born in China, a Portuguese-American fashion model, editor, and television producer. Gained recognition as one of the first Asian models to achieve success in the fashion industry during the 1950s and 1960s. Worked with prominent designers and contributed to major fashion publications. Served as a model and later as an editor, significantly influencing the fashion landscape. Expanded her career into television production, where she produced content that showcased the arts and culture.

Continue Reading