1976 1978

What Happened This Year 1977

All Events 113 Births 651 Deaths 239

People Who Died in 1977

Alberto Rodriguez Larreta

Argentinian race car driver

Born

January 14th, 1934 92 years ago

Died

1977 49 years ago — 43 years old

Significant contributions to motor sports occurred in Argentina, competing in various Formula One races during the 1960s. Achievements include participation in the Argentine Grand Prix and recognition in South American racing circuits. Competed for the Ferrari team and was part of the first wave of Argentine drivers to participate in international competitions, helping to raise the profile of the country in motorsports.

Richard Addinsell

English composer of film scores

Born

January 13th, 1904 122 years ago

Died

1977 49 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1904, Addinsell became a significant English composer, primarily recognized for his film scores. He studied at the Royal College of Music and began his career composing music for films in the 1930s. His most celebrated work remains the score for the 1942 film 'Warsaw Concerto,' which gained popularity and became a classic piece in the concert repertoire. He collaborated with several noted filmmakers, contributing music to various films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, including 'Hunger of the Sea' and 'Goodbye, Mr. Chips.' His style often combined classical elements with a cinematic flair, leading to numerous arrangements and recordings performed by orchestras worldwide.

Carlos Pellicer

Mexican poet and academic with major works

Born

January 16th, 1897 129 years ago

Died

1977 49 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent figure in Mexican literature, he contributed significantly to 20th-century poetry through a profound exploration of identity and nature. He served as a professor, promoting literature and culture in Mexico, and was involved in various academic institutions. His poetry often reflected themes of love, nature, and the human experience. His literary career spanned several decades, during which he cultivated a unique style that resonated deeply within the Mexican literary landscape.

Robert Maynard Hutchins

Philosopher and academic leader

Born

January 17th, 1899 127 years ago

Died

1977 49 years ago — 78 years old

A philosopher and academic leader contributed significantly to higher education in the United States. Served as president of the University of Chicago from 1929 to 1945 and later became chancellor. Advocated for a liberal education curriculum and emphasized the importance of critical thinking. Established the Great Books program, which focused on classic texts and ideas. Promoted educational reform and the necessity of intellectual and moral development in education. Also served as a prominent philosopher, addressing topics related to democracy and society.

Magda Lupescu

Mistress and wife of Romania's king

Born

September 15th, 1895 130 years ago

Died

1977 49 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.