What Happened This Year 1977

People Who Died in 1977

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Géza Révész

Hungarian Minister of Defence
Born
August 31st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 75 years old

A Hungarian general and politician, served as Minister of Defence. Played a significant role in the military and political landscape of Hungary during the mid-20th century. Contributed to defense policy and military organization during a critical period in Hungarian history.

Continue Reading

Ruth Graves Wakefield

Chef who created the chocolate chip cookie
Born
June 17th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 74 years old

A chef and entrepreneur, she owned the Toll House Inn in Massachusetts. In the 1930s, she invented the chocolate chip cookie by adding chocolate morsels to her butter drop cookie recipe. This innovation became widespread, leading to the chocolate chip cookie's popularity across the United States. The cookie's recipe was published in a Boston newspaper, quickly gaining traction. Eventually, Nestlé entered into an agreement to include her recipe on its chocolate packaging, further cementing the cookie's place in American culture.

Continue Reading

Sonny Criss

American saxophonist and composer
Born
October 23rd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent figure in jazz music, contributed significantly to the genre as a saxophonist and composer. Criss became well-regarded for his distinctive playing style and innovative approach to improvisation. He recorded several albums throughout his career, showcasing his talents. Collaborated with notable musicians and bands of the era, influencing many contemporary artists.

Continue Reading