What Happened This Year 1976

People Who Died in 1976

Soetardjo Kartohadikusumo

Indonesian politician, 1st Governor of West Java
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1976 48 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the first Governor of West Java after Indonesian independence. Helped establish administrative structures in the province during a crucial period of nation-building. Contributed to local governance and the implementation of policies aimed at improving the welfare of the population. Focussed on infrastructure development and education. Played a significant role in fostering regional identity within the national framework.

Continue Reading

Katharine Byron

American politician and legislator
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1976 48 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Maryland from 1941 to 1947. Played a significant role in advocating for women's rights and health care issues during her tenure. Contributed to the establishment of policies affecting public health and veteran affairs. Actively participated in various committees and legislative initiatives.

Continue Reading

Ivo Van Damme

Belgian middle-distance runner
Born
1954 71 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1976 48 years ago — 22 years old

Competed in middle-distance running events, achieving notable success in the 1970s. Secured a silver medal in the 800 meters at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal. Won multiple national titles in Belgium, establishing a reputation as one of the top runners in the country. Continued to compete at an elite level until the end of his career, making significant contributions to the sport before his untimely death.

Continue Reading

Percy Shaw

Inventor of the cat's eye
Born
April 15th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 86 years old

An English businessman developed a reflective road safety device that improved visibility for drivers at night. The device, called the cat's eye, consisted of a pair of reflective lenses mounted in a rubber housing. This invention increased road safety and gained widespread adoption in the UK and beyond. Originally patented in the 1930s, the cat's eye significantly reduced accidents by enhancing lane visibility during low-light conditions. Shaw's company continued to produce cat's eyes for decades.

Continue Reading

Mikhail Gurevich

Engineer, co-founded MiG Design Bureau
Born
January 12th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 84 years old

An engineer and businessman contributed to Soviet aviation through the co-founding of the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau. This organization became prominent for designing military aircraft, including the MiG-15, which gained fame during the Korean War for its performance against American fighters. Under leadership, the bureau developed a series of successful aircraft including jet fighters that played critical roles in various conflicts. The designs were recognized for their speed and maneuverability, establishing a legacy that influenced military aviation worldwide.

Continue Reading

Ermanno Aebi

Italian-Swiss footballer, FC Basel
Born
January 13th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1892, a professional footballer played primarily as a forward. Played for FC Basel from 1911 to 1916, contributing to the team's success in various regional competitions. Participated in the 1912 Summer Olympics as part of the Swiss national team, showcasing skills on an international stage. Also played for other clubs during career in Switzerland and Italy.

Continue Reading

Károly Takács

Hungarian Olympic shooter
Born
January 21st, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 66 years old

A Hungarian shooter excelled in rapid fire pistol events. Competed in two Olympic Games, winning gold medals in 1948 and 1952. Overcame adversity after a hand injury from a grenade explosion, adapting shooting techniques to continue competing at a high level. Achieved success at the European Championships, securing multiple titles throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Giuseppe Genco Russo

Italian mob boss and Mafia figure
Born
January 26th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1893, Genco Russo became a prominent figure in the Sicilian Mafia. In the early 20th century, he played a crucial role in the reorganization of Mafia activities in the United States, particularly in New York City. His associations with various Mafia families, including the influential Bonanno crime family, founded extensive ties between Sicilian and American organized crime. Russo's operations extended to illegal gambling, loan sharking, and narcotics trafficking. His influence and connections facilitated the Mafia's growth during this period, making him a key player in the underworld of organized crime until his death in 1978.

Continue Reading

Wes Ferrell

Baseball player and manager, 2-time All-Star
Born
February 2nd, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 68 years old

Accomplished baseball player and manager, recognized for participation in Major League Baseball during the 1920s and 1930s. Played primarily as a pitcher for teams including the Cleveland Indians, Boston Red Sox, and Washington Senators. Achieved two All-Star selections during a career that spanned from 1927 to 1941. Transitioned to managing, overseeing teams in the minor leagues and contributing to player development and team strategy.

Continue Reading