What Happened This Year 1977

People Who Died in 1977

Aleksandr Vasilevsky

Soviet military leader and defense minister
Born
1895 130 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1977 47 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent Soviet military leader and politician, served as the Minister of Defence for the Soviet Union from 1940 to 1947. Played a crucial role in planning and executing significant military operations during World War II, including the Battle of Stalingrad and the Vistula-Oder Offensive. Oversaw the transformation of the Red Army and contributed to post-war military reforms. Held the rank of Marshal of the Soviet Union and was recognized for leadership in key battles that shaped the outcome of the war. After the war, continued to influence military strategy and defense policy until retirement.

Continue Reading

Katherine Milhous

Author and illustrator of children's books
Born
November 27th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1977 47 years ago — 83 years old

An American author and illustrator, contributed significantly to children's literature with a focus on stories that resonate with young readers. Her work often draw inspiration from American history and culture, and she illustrated her own books. One of the most recognized works is 'The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar', showcasing her unique illustrative style. Milhous also received recognition for her contributions to educational texts, which combined both writing and visual arts. Her books continue to be appreciated for their creativity and engaging narratives.

Continue Reading

Peter Carl Goldmark

Hungarian-American engineer and innovator
Born
December 2nd, 1906 118 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1977 47 years ago — 71 years old

An engineer and inventor, contributed significantly to the development of color television and the long-playing record. Played a pivotal role in the early television technology at CBS, where the first color broadcast occurred. Developed the LP record, which revolutionized the music industry by allowing longer playback times compared to previous formats. Worked on high fidelity sound reproduction and improved standards for audio quality.

Continue Reading

Adolph Rupp

Basketball coach and innovator of strategy
Born
September 2nd, 1901 123 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1977 47 years ago — 76 years old

Contributed to the development of collegiate basketball in the United States as a head coach. Led the University of Kentucky men's basketball team from 1930 to 1972, achieving significant success in the sport. Accumulated a record of 876 wins, making him one of the most successful coaches in NCAA history. Won four NCAA championships in 1948, 1949, 1951, and 1958. Instrumental in establishing a competitive basketball program that set standards for other programs in the nation. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1963.

Continue Reading

Oguz Atay

Turkish author and engineer
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1977 47 years ago — 43 years old

An influential Turkish author and engineer contributed significantly to Turkish literature. Wrote the novel 'Tutunamayanlar' (The Disconnected), which is regarded as a milestone in modern Turkish literature. The work explores the themes of alienation and identity through a complex narrative structure. His engineering background informed his literary approach, blending technical precision with artistic expression. Wrote several plays and essays, further shaping Turkish literary discourse. Made contributions to the field of engineering alongside his literary career.

Continue Reading

Wilfred Kitching

General of The Salvation Army
Born
August 22nd, 1893 131 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1977 47 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the 7th General of The Salvation Army from 1963 until retirement in 1974. Held a prominent leadership role within the organization, guiding its mission and initiatives during a period of significant change. Focused on expanding outreach to communities in need and strengthening the organization's global presence. Oversaw various programs aimed at social welfare and spiritual support, and promoted the core principles of the Salvation Army.

Continue Reading

Risto Jarva

Finnish director, producer, and screenwriter
Born
July 15th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1977 47 years ago — 43 years old

Active in Finnish cinema from the 1960s until the early 1970s. Directed several notable films, including 'Kaksipäisen kotkan varjossa,' which explored themes of war and identity. Also produced the film 'Kirkastettu sydän,' showcasing his versatility in filmmaking. Contributed significantly to the development of Finnish film as a medium for addressing social issues and cultural narratives.

Continue Reading

Louis Untermeyer

American poet and anthologist
Born
October 1st, 1885 139 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1977 47 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1885, an American poet, anthologist, and critic. Contributed significantly to American literature through various anthologies that shaped modern poetry. Served as the poetry editor for several prominent magazines and published over 50 books, including collections of his own poetry. Emphasized the importance of contemporary poets and brought a diverse range of voices to the forefront through anthologies. Recognized for critical works that engaged with both established and emerging poets, influencing the medium during the 20th century.

Continue Reading

Michio Nishizawa

Japanese baseball player and manager
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1977 47 years ago — 56 years old

Played as an outfielder in Japanese professional baseball and became a notable manager after retirement. Participated in the early years of Nippon Professional Baseball, contributing to the growth of the sport in Japan. Managed several teams, including the Yomiuri Giants, and influenced the development of many players during the post-war era.

Continue Reading