What Happened This Year 1977

People Who Died in 1977

Bill Tilman

English mountaineer and explorer
Born
February 14th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 79 years old

An English mountaineer and explorer, this individual significantly contributed to the field of mountaineering and exploration during the early to mid-20th century. Key expeditions included notable ascents in the Himalayas and the Karakoram range, especially to peaks like Nanga Parbat and K2. Engaged in extensive travel and exploration in various remote regions, he documented adventures through writings and photography, further popularizing the art of exploration. In addition to mountaineering, involvement in World War II as an officer showcased another facet of resilience and determination.

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Katherine Stinson

Aviator and Aeronautical Pioneer
Born
February 14th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 86 years old

An American aviator, Stinson became a prominent figure in early aviation, achieving several significant milestones. In 1912, she was the first woman to fly a loop. Her contributions included performing aerial stunts and participating in air shows across the United States. Stinson also established a flight school in 1915, contributing to the training of aviators. Throughout her career, she set records and gained recognition as one of the pioneering women in aviation during a time when it was predominantly a male-dominated field.

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Magda Lupescu

Mistress and wife of Romania's king
Born
September 15th, 1895 129 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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Hans Rookmaaker

Dutch historian and author of Art Needs No Justification
Born
February 27th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 55 years old

Contributions included scholarly work in the field of art history. Focused on the relationship between art and culture, Rookmaaker published multiple texts examining aesthetic philosophy. Acted as a professor at the Free University in Amsterdam, influencing generations of art historians and scholars. Engaged with themes of modernity and the role of art in society, emphasizing the importance of creativity within a cultural context. His book, 'Art Needs No Justification', became a significant work addressing the contemporary understanding of art.

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Wim Schermerhorn

Dutch Prime Minister and Cartographer
Born
December 17th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1977 48 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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George Barnes

Guitarist and songwriter, contributed to jazz
Born
July 17th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1977 48 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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Mary Callery

Sculptor and educator in modern art
Born
June 19th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1977 48 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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Florence Jepperson Madsen

Contralto singer and music professor
Born
December 15th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 91 years old

Involved in the field of music as a contralto singer and professor, contributed significantly to the education of music students. Active in performing as a soloist in numerous concert settings throughout the United States. Held teaching positions at various institutions, influencing many aspiring musicians and singers. Focused on vocal techniques and choral methods during the professional career.

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Alexander Luria

Psychologist and creator of neuropsychology
Born
July 16th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent psychologist and physician, contributed significantly to the development of neuropsychology. Conducted groundbreaking research on brain function and its relationship to cognitive processes. Pioneered methods for assessment and rehabilitation of individuals with brain injuries. Developed theories on the organization of the brain in relation to speech and language, influencing both psychology and education. Authored influential books on neuropsychology that have been widely referenced in the field.

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