What Happened This Year 1977

People Who Died in 1977

Olave Baden-Powell

Scout leader, first World Chief Guide
Born
February 22nd, 1889 136 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1977 47 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent figure in the scouting movement, engaged in leadership roles that shaped the foundation of girl guides and scouts globally. Played a vital role in promoting outdoor education, personal development, and community service among youth. Established the first World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts in 1910, leading initiatives that expanded the movement internationally. Actively contributed to the growth of scouting organizations and participated in numerous conferences to enhance the impact of scouting worldwide.

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Vladimir Nabokov

Novelist and literary critic, author of Lolita
Born
April 22nd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1977 47 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Russia, a prolific novelist and literary critic contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. Immigrated to the United States, where many major works were completed. Explored themes of obsession, memory, and the relationship between reality and art. Utilized a distinctive style characterized by wordplay, intricate plots, and vivid imagery. Renowned for fluency in both English and Russian, produced works that bridged cultural boundaries. Taught literature at several universities and engaged in entomology as a passionate hobby.

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Alexander Volkov

Mathematician and author of textbooks
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 1977 47 years ago — 86 years old

A Russian mathematician contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and mathematical education. Volkov authored several influential textbooks that shaped learning in mathematical analysis and algebra. His academic work focused on rational mechanics and higher algebra, providing substantial resources for students and educators in the discipline. Volkov held positions at various universities, dedicated to teaching and advancing mathematical knowledge.

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Ödön Pártos

Viola player and composer
Born
October 1st, 1907 117 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1977 47 years ago — 69 years old

Hungarian-Israeli viola player and composer. Born in 1907, significant contributions to music made through performances and compositions. Studied at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music and engaged in teaching viola and composition. Emigrated to Israel, where further developed career as a performer and educator. Helped in establishing the Israeli Symphony Orchestra and served as a prominent figure in the development of classical music in the region.

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Alice Paul

American suffragist and activist
Born
January 11th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1977 47 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1885, a suffragist and activist advocated for women's rights in the United States. Played a key role in the campaign for the Nineteenth Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. Helped organize the 1913 Woman Suffrage Parade in Washington, D.C., which was a significant demonstration for women's voting rights. Founded the National Women's Party in 1916, promoting women's equality and suffrage through various strategies, including hunger strikes and picketing. Worked throughout her life to secure equal rights and continue women's movement efforts.

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Donald Mackay

Australian businessman and activist
Born
September 13th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1977 47 years ago — 43 years old

A businessman and activist from Australia, became involved in several initiatives aiming to improve various sectors of society. Engaged extensively in community affairs and contributed to efforts in the realm of business ethics and responsible corporate governance. Played a key role in discussions and reforms concerning drug law policy and environmental concerns. Advocated for social justice and the improvement of living standards in local communities.

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Gary Kellgren

Record Producer, Co-founder of Record Plant
Born
April 7th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1977 47 years ago — 38 years old

A significant figure in the music industry, co-founded the renowned recording studio Record Plant in New York City. The studio became a favored place for many prominent artists in the 1970s. Played a key role in producing albums for influential musicians and bands, contributing to the evolution of rock and pop music during his career. Worked extensively with artists across various genres, shaping recordings that would be pivotal in their careers. Passed away in 1977.

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Lee Miller

American photographer and model
Born
April 23rd, 1907 117 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1977 47 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in 20th-century photography, this individual transitioned from a successful modeling career to becoming a notable war correspondent during World War II. During the war, worked for Vogue, capturing powerful images of the conflict and its aftermath. Developed a unique photographic style that encompassed both fashion and documentary work. The portfolio included portraits of prominent artists and writers of the time.

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Francis Gary Powers

U-2 pilot and Cold War figure
Born
August 17th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1977 47 years ago — 47 years old

Birth on August 17, 1929, took place in Jenkins, Kentucky. A career as a U.S. Air Force pilot led to a role in the CIA's U-2 program for high-altitude reconnaissance. In 1960, an operational flight over the Soviet Union resulted in capture after the aircraft was shot down. Following a spy trial in Moscow, Powers received a ten-year sentence but was exchanged for Soviet spy Rudolph Abel in 1962. His life thereafter included media work and writing about intelligence operations. His experiences highlighted the tensions of the Cold War.

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