What Happened This Year 1929

Born in 1929

Kevin White

American politician, 51st Mayor of Boston
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the 51st Mayor of Boston from 1968 to 1984. During the tenure, focused on urban renewal and economic development. Played a significant role in revitalizing the city, advocating for the construction of various schools, parks, and housing projects. Engaged in reforms to improve public transportation and reduce racial tensions in the city. After leaving office, remained active in local politics and community issues until passing in 2012.

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Avigdor Arikha

Artist and printmaker, major works in art
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
April 29th, 2010 15 years ago — 81 years old

An artist and printmaker, this individual became prominent for contributions to both visual arts and art history. The career spanned several decades, during which numerous exhibitions showcased works across various media including painting and drawing. In 1949, this person relocated to Paris, where they immersed in the post-war art scene, later transitioning to Israel while maintaining a significant presence in Europe. Works featured themes exploring memory and identity, deeply influenced by personal experiences and historical contexts. The art collection includes pieces held in major museums such as the Israel Museum and the Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris.

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Fred Phelps

American lawyer and founder of a church
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old

A lawyer and pastor, founded the Westboro Baptist Church in 1955 in Topeka, Kansas. The church became widely recognized for its controversial protests and demonstrations against various social issues, particularly its anti-LGBTQ+ stance. Phelps led the church, promoting its ideologies and participating in numerous high-profile protests. The organization gained national attention through its picketing at military funerals, claiming it was a message from God about the nation's moral decline. Phelps remained a polarizing figure until his death in 2014.

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Ray Barretto

Drummer and conguero of salsa music
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2006 19 years ago — 77 years old

Acclaimed drummer and conguero contributed significantly to the development of the salsa genre. Worked with various prominent musicians and bands, including Tito Puente and the Fania All-Stars. Barretto's innovative rhythms and incorporation of Afro-Caribbean influences shaped the sound of salsa. Released several successful albums, with notable works including 'Indestructible' and 'Brava'. His career spanned multiple decades, during which he fused jazz elements with Latin music, helping to popularize salsa globally. Barretto also participated in various musical collaborations that enriched the genre.

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Albert Naughton

Rugby player and England international
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2013 11 years ago — 84 years old

Played rugby union for England and was part of the team during the early 20th century. Contributed to the sport through participation at the international level. Competed in various matches, showcasing skills and athleticism on the field.

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Gudrun Burwitz

Daughter of Heinrich Himmler
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
May 24th, 2018 7 years ago — 89 years old

Daughter of Margarete Himmler and Heinrich Himmler, she lived much of her life in the shadow of her father's legacy. Following the war, active in promoting her father's memory and defending his actions during the Nazi regime. Resided in Germany and maintained connections with former SS members. Her life was marked by the complexities of her familial ties and the historical consequences of her father's role in World War II. Passed away in 2018.

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Guillermo Cabrera Infante

Cuban author and screenwriter
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old

Cuban author, screenwriter, and critic contributed significantly to literature and cinema. Writings often focused on the complexities of Cuban identity and culture, blending history with narrative fiction. Gained international recognition for the novel 'Three Trapped Tigers', which showcased a vibrant and experimental style. Served as Cuba's cultural attaché in Belgium and was an advocate for freedom of expression, particularly after leaving Cuba following the revolution. Emigrated to Spain and continued to write, producing essays and screenplays that explored themes of nostalgia and exile.

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Zdzisław Beksiński

Polish painter and surrealist artist
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1929, an artist focused on surrealist themes through painting, photography, and sculpture. Created haunting and dystopian imagery, with works often described as nightmarish. Lived in Warsaw, evolving a distinctive style characterized by intricate details and a dark palette. Emphasized themes of death and decay, influencing contemporary art. Despite a tragic end to life in 2005, his works are celebrated in galleries worldwide, solidifying his position in the art community.

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Žarko Petan

Slovenian director and playwright
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent figure in Slovenian theater, directed numerous productions across various genres. Worked extensively in both theater and film, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of Slovenia. Participated in the establishment of several cultural institutions and served as a panelist for national theater awards. Recognized for engaging storytelling and innovative staging techniques.

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