What Happened This Year 1977

People Who Died in 1977

Mary Callery

Sculptor and educator in modern art
Born
June 19th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 74 years old

Born in the United States, a prolific sculptor and academic, contributed significantly to modern sculpture and the promotion of the arts in America and France. Studied at the Art Students League and later became an influential figure in art education. Worked with a variety of materials and was particularly noted for her bronze sculptures. Participated in numerous exhibitions and her work is included in prestigious collections, showcasing the evolution of 20th-century modernist sculpture.

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George Barnes

Guitarist and songwriter, contributed to jazz
Born
July 17th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 56 years old

An influential guitarist, producer, and songwriter contributed significantly to the development of jazz and popular music. Developed a unique technique that combined elements of jazz and folk music. Worked with various artists and bands, and produced recordings that showcased innovative guitar arrangements. Collaborated with notable musicians in the 1940s and 1950s, leaving a lasting impact on the guitar landscape. Maintained a career that spanned several decades, continuing to perform and create new music until later in life.

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Henry Williamson

English author and soldier, wrote Tarka
Born
December 1st, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 82 years old

An English author and soldier, contributions to literature included novels and essays that often reflected his experiences and observations of nature. Most notably, the work 'Tarka the Otter' received critical acclaim and became a classic of British literature. Williamson served in the British Army during World War I, participating in significant battles. Following the war, he focused on writing, drawing inspiration from rural life and his love of nature. His writings frequently explored themes of the natural world, reflecting a deep connection to the environment.

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Wim Schermerhorn

Dutch Prime Minister and Cartographer
Born
December 17th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 83 years old

A cartographer and engineer, served as Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1945 to 1946. Instrumental in post-war reconstruction efforts, contributed to the establishment of the Dutch welfare state. Played a significant role in the formation of the United Nations and European integration during his tenure. His leadership was marked by a focus on rebuilding the nation after World War II and addressing the challenges of the era.

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Magda Lupescu

Mistress and wife of Romania's king
Born
September 15th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1895, served as the mistress and later became the second wife of King Carol II of Romania. The relationship began during the early 1920s and attracted significant public attention and controversy. Their union faced opposition from the Romanian Orthodox Church and the aristocracy. In 1930, the couple married after King Carol II abdicated and returned to the throne in 1930. Lupescu's influence on the king's policies and personal affairs became evident during his reign, which included tumultuous political times leading up to World War II. Following the king's abdication in 1940, the couple lived in exile. After the end of the monarchy in Romania, they settled in France. Lupescu passed away in 1977, having navigated a life intertwined with Romanian royalty and significant historical events.

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Stuart Garson

Canadian lawyer, 12th Premier of Manitoba
Born
December 1st, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the 12th Premier of Manitoba from 1943 to 1948. Represented the Progressive Conservative Party and worked on various legislative initiatives during tenure. Played a significant role in post-war reconstruction efforts in Manitoba and was involved in the implementation of health and education reforms in the province. Prior to premiership, held the position of Attorney General of Manitoba. Contributed to the legal framework governing the province and participated in significant political discussions affecting Manitoba's development.

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Miloš Crnjanski

Serbian poet and author of The Lantern
Born
October 26th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 84 years old

An influential Serbian poet and novelist, contributions spanned poetry, prose, and essays. Major works include the novel 'The Lantern' which explored themes of identity and nostalgia following World War I. His literary career also included significant works such as 'Migrations' and 'The Heart of a Poet', which showcase a blend of modernist narrative techniques and rich emotional depth. Crnjanski's writing reflects the complexities of Serbian culture and history in the 20th century. In addition to fiction, artistically engaged with topics of national identity, belonging, and spirituality, solidifying his role in Serbian literature.

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Bill Merritt

New Zealand Cricketer and Sportscaster
Born
August 18th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 69 years old

Played as a cricketer in the 1930s for New Zealand, participating in several international matches. Following a cricketing career, transitioned to sportscasting, contributing to the coverage of cricket events. Engaged in commentary and analysis, enhancing the viewer's understanding of the game through detailed insights and historical context. Remained involved in cricket-related activities, fostering interest and appreciation for the sport.

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Tibor Déry

Hungarian author and translator
Born
October 18th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent Hungarian author and translator, contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. Various works showcased themes of humanism and social justice. Transitioned from writing poetry to prose, producing novels and plays that resonated with the struggles of the individual in societal contexts. Persecuted during the political turmoil of Hungary in the 20th century, faced imprisonment for his beliefs. After release, continued to write and translate literature, facilitating cultural exchange between Hungarian and other literary traditions.

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