What Happened This Year 1977

People Who Died in 1977

Bing Crosby

Singer and actor, 'White Christmas'
Born
May 3rd, 1903 121 years ago
Died
October 14th, 1977 47 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent American singer and actor, gained fame in the early 20th century. Best remembered for the song 'White Christmas,' which became one of the best-selling singles of all time. Achieved notable success in both music and film, blending traditional pop and jazz elements. Starred in a series of popular movies, including 'Going My Way' and 'The Bells of Saint Mary's,' earning an Academy Award for Best Actor for the former. Crosby's career spanned several decades, and he became one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry, transitioning from radio to television.

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Andreas Baader

German militant and Baader-Meinhof member
Born
May 6th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1977 47 years ago — 34 years old

A key figure in the German left-wing militant group, played a significant role in the radical political climate of the 1970s. Baader co-founded the Baader-Meinhof Group, also known as the Red Army Faction. The group's activities included bank robberies, bombings, and assassinations aimed at combating perceived state oppression. Baader was arrested in 1972 and during subsequent trials became a symbol of the violent extremism of that era. His life concluded in 1977 under controversial circumstances in prison, amidst a series of events known as the 'German Autumn'.

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Ronnie Van Zant

Singer-songwriter and Lynyrd Skynyrd frontman
Born
January 15th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1977 47 years ago — 29 years old

A prominent figure in Southern rock, contributed significantly to the genre as the lead vocalist and songwriter for the band Lynyrd Skynyrd. The band released several successful albums and became known for their anthems that captured the spirit of Southern life. Tragically, died in a plane crash in 1977, which cut short a rising career. His legacy continued to influence rock music well into the future.

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Steve Gaines

American singer-songwriter, guitar player
Born
September 14th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1977 47 years ago — 28 years old

Born in 1949, this musician rose to prominence as a guitarist and songwriter in the southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. His contributions to the band's sound were significant during the early 1970s. He joined Lynyrd Skynyrd shortly before the release of their acclaimed album "Street Survivors". The album featured popular tracks that showcased his guitar skills and songwriting. Tragically, his career was cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1977, which also claimed the lives of several band members.

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Félix Gouin

French politician and Prime Minister
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1977 47 years ago — 93 years old

Served as Prime Minister of France from 1946 to 1947. Elected as a member of the French National Assembly in 1945. Contributed to post-World War II reconstruction efforts. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Fourth Republic. Held various ministerial positions throughout his political career, including Minister of National Education.

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James M. Cain

American author of hardboiled novels
Born
July 1st, 1892 132 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1977 47 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent American author and journalist, contributions included groundbreaking works in the hardboiled genre during the early 20th century. Cain achieved significant recognition with the publication of novels such as "The Postman Always Rings Twice," which showcased a blend of romantic and criminal elements. Another notable work, "Double Indemnity," was adapted into a highly regarded film that garnered critical acclaim and influenced the film noir genre. Cain's writing style featured concise prose and a focus on the darker aspects of human nature, establishing a lasting legacy within American literature.

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C. B. Colby

American author and novelist
Born
September 7th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1977 47 years ago — 73 years old

An author who specialized in crafting compelling narratives, produced numerous works that explored themes of human experience. Contributed significantly to literature in the early to mid-20th century. Published notable novels and essays, which have garnered attention for their depth and insight into various subjects. Engaged with readers through both fiction and non-fiction, showcasing a range of literary skills.

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Tom Reamy

American author of speculative fiction
Born
January 23rd, 1935 90 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1977 47 years ago — 42 years old

An American author specialized in speculative fiction, published works included short stories and novels. Reamy's story 'The Green Leopard Plague' won the prestigious Nebula Award for Best Novelette in 1970. His writing often explored themes of science fiction and fantasy, contributing to the genre through various publications.

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Alexey Stakhanov

Soviet miner, Stakhanovite movement leader
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1977 47 years ago — 71 years old

A miner in the Soviet Union, he became a symbol of high productivity in labor. His record of coal extraction in 1935 saw him mining 102 tons in a single shift, which was significantly higher than the norm at the time. This achievement initiated the Stakhanovite movement, promoting increased labor productivity through rewards for outstanding workers. This movement aimed to inspire workers across the country to exceed their production quotas. His legacy continued throughout the Soviet era, impacting labor practices and worker morale.

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