What Happened This Year 1977

People Who Died in 1977

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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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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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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Nellie Tayloe Ross

Governor of Wyoming, first female governor
Born
November 29th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 101 years old

Served as the 14th Governor of Wyoming from 1925 to 1927. Became the first woman to hold a governorship in the United States. Prior to this, worked as the director of the Wyoming State Liquor Commission. Held various positions within the Democratic Party and was active in state and national politics, promoting women's suffrage and other reforms.

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Larry Itliong

Union organizer and farm labor leader
Born
October 25th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 64 years old

An influential Filipino-American labor organizer who played a significant role in the Delano grape strike. Worked alongside Cesar Chavez to advocate for better working conditions for farmworkers in California. Established the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee and later merged it into the United Farm Workers Union, seeking justice and rights for laborers. Emphasized the importance of labor solidarity and social justice through grassroots activism. His leadership contributed to the recognition of farmworkers' rights and improved labor standards in the agricultural sector.

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A. P. Hamann

American politician and lawyer
Born
September 26th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1909, a notable figure practiced law and served as a lieutenant in the military before entering politics. Held various positions within the political landscape, contributing to legislative processes and community development. Engaged actively in local and state-level governance, focusing on legal reforms and public service initiatives. His legal expertise informed policy decisions and community programs.

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Gustave Gilbert

American psychologist and researcher
Born
September 30th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 66 years old

A psychologist conducted research on conformity and obedience. Prominent work involved experiments on social psychology, notably during the 1950s. Contributed to the understanding of authority and group dynamics through studies that underscored the influence of social pressure on individual decision-making. Teamed with notable researchers to investigate the behavior of individuals in group settings, offering insights that shaped the field of social psychology.

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Princess Charlotte

Duchess of Valentinois
Born
September 30th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 79 years old

Born on September 30, 1898, she served as the Duchess of Valentinois and was a member of the Grimaldi family. The daughter of Prince Louis II of Monaco, she became notable in the context of Monegasque nobility. She held the title of Duchess of Valentinois following her marriage to Prince Pierre of Monaco, contributing to the royal lineage of Monaco.

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Sleepy John Estes

Blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
January 25th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 78 years old

Born on January 25, 1899, a significant figure in the country blues genre, contributing to the development of the style with a unique blend of storytelling and musicality. Raised in Tennessee, early recordings in the 1920s showcased a distinctive blend of guitar playing and soulful lyrics. Collaborated with various musicians, including Hammie Nixon. Recorded influential tracks that resonated with audiences both locally and nationally. His music influenced numerous artists in the blues genre and beyond, contributing to the preservation and popularity of traditional blues.

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