What Happened This Year 1977

People Who Died in 1977

Mike Parkes

Race Car Driver; Le Mans 24 Hours participant
Born
September 24th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 46 years old

Active as a race car driver during the 1950s and 1960s, excelled in sports car racing, particularly with Ferrari. Achieved notable success in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where he secured a podium finish in 1963. Competed in Formula One, participating in several races and contributing to the motorsport community through various roles. Helped develop racing technologies and vehicles while maintaining a presence in endurance racing circuits.

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A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada

Indian religious leader, ISKCON founder
Born
September 1st, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 81 years old

Founded the International Society for Krishna Consciousness in 1966 in New York City. Brought the teachings of Bhakti Yoga and the practice of chanting the Hare Krishna mantra to the West. Authored numerous texts including translations and commentaries on the Bhagavad-gita and Srimad Bhagavatam. Established hundreds of temples, schools, and farm communities globally, promoting the principles of devotion to Krishna.

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Jacob Marschak

Economist and author of economic theory
Born
July 23rd, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Ukraine, significant contributions to economics occurred throughout a career in academia and journalism. Marschak played crucial roles in the development of economic theory, particularly in the analysis of decision-making under uncertainty and the formation of socio-economic systems. His work influenced various fields, including econometrics and the theory of production. Marschak contributed to numerous scholarly articles and texts, shaping the understanding of economic behaviors and policies. He held positions at prestigious institutions such as the University of Chicago and the University of California, Los Angeles.

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Bill Boyd

American singer and guitarist
Born
September 29th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 67 years old

An American singer and guitarist, active in the mid-20th century, contributed significantly to the country and western music genre. Achieved prominence as a bandleader and recorded a series of popular records. Notably led the Bill Boyd and His Cowboy Ramblers, a well-regarded western swing group. The ensemble gained popularity for their energetic performances and harmonies. The music of this figure reflected the culture and styles of the time, influencing later artists in the genre.

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Tibor Déry

Hungarian author and translator
Born
October 18th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1977 48 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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Russell "Jungle Jim" Liberman

American drag racer and TV personality
Born
September 12th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 32 years old

A prominent figure in American drag racing, gained prominence in the 1960s. Achieved significant success as a professional drag racer, competing in various events and showcasing remarkable driving skills. Developed a unique persona as 'Jungle Jim', becoming a recognizable face in motorsports. Participated in numerous NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) events, with many victories contributing to a lasting legacy in the sport. Additionally, made appearances in television shows, bringing drag racing to a broader audience and inspiring many new racers.

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Bill Merritt

New Zealand Cricketer and Sportscaster
Born
August 18th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1977 48 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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Miloš Crnjanski

Serbian poet and author of The Lantern
Born
October 26th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1977 48 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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Magda Lupescu

Mistress and wife of Romania's king
Born
September 15th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1977 48 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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