What Happened This Year 1977

People Who Died in 1977

Marston Morse

Mathematician and academic in geometry
Born
March 24th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 85 years old

Contributions to mathematics included fundamental work in geometric topology and Morse theory, which provides a method for analyzing the topology of a manifold based on critical points of smooth functions. Served as a professor at various institutions, including Harvard University and the Institute for Advanced Study. The Morse theory developed has applications across various fields, including physics, biology, and data analysis. Published numerous papers detailing findings and advancements in mathematical theories.

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Ernie Lombardi

Baseball player with Cincinnati Reds
Born
April 6th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 69 years old

Played professional baseball primarily as a catcher from 1931 to 1947. Achieved recognition with the Cincinnati Reds, where notable performances contributed to team success. Selected for the All-Star Game multiple times throughout the career. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1986, reflecting a significant impact on the sport during the prime years of playing career.

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Billy Gonsalves

Soccer player, 1930 World Cup participant
Born
August 10th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 69 years old

Played soccer primarily as a forward. Competed in the 1930 FIFA World Cup as a member of the United States national team. Gonsalves contributed to the early development of soccer in the U.S. and is remembered for his skill on the field during the formative years of the sport in the country.

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Clarice Lispector

Ukrainian-Brazilian author
Born
December 10th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 57 years old

Born in Ukraine and later based in Brazil, this author is celebrated for contributions to modernist literature. Early life experiences influenced the distinct style characterized by introspective and innovative narrative techniques. The literary career began with the publication of the novel 'Perto do Coração Selvagem' in 1943, establishing a unique voice within Brazilian literature. Works prominently feature themes of identity, femininity, and the human condition. Additionally, contributed to journalism and wrote various essays, further shaping cultural discourse in Brazil.

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Hanns Martin Schleyer

German business executive and organization leader
Born
May 1st, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 62 years old

A business executive with a prominent role in the German economy, played a significant part in the automotive and industrial sectors. Became the president of the Confederation of German Employers' Associations and held various leadership positions in industry organizations. His executive career was marked by involvement in labor relations and economic policy, especially during the pivotal years of economic recovery in post-war Germany. Captured international attention when kidnapped by the Red Army Faction in 1977, which led to a national crisis and extensive negotiations.

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Jan Patočka

Czech philosopher and phenomenologist
Born
June 1st, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of phenomenology and existentialism. Worked on the interpretation of philosophical thought, with a focus on the works of Edmund Husserl and Martin Heidegger. Engaged in philosophical debates during a time of political upheaval in Czechoslovakia. Played a crucial role in the founding of the Charter 77 human rights movement. Patočka's writings often explored themes of freedom, responsibility, and the nature of human existence.

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Cyril Ritchard

Actor and singer in Peter Pan
Born
December 1st, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Australia, an actor and singer achieved prominence in theater, especially in musical theater. Gained significant recognition for the role of Captain Hook in the original Broadway production of 'Peter Pan,' which showcased a memorable performance. Ritchard's talents extended beyond acting, as he also enjoyed a successful career in television and cabaret, captivating audiences with musical performances. His work in staged productions and adeptness at bringing characters to life solidified a place in entertainment history.

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Stuart Garson

Canadian lawyer, 12th Premier of Manitoba
Born
December 1st, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1977 48 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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Henry Williamson

English author and soldier, wrote Tarka
Born
December 1st, 1895 129 years ago
Died
1977 48 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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