What Happened This Year 1977

People Who Died in 1977

Gudrun Ensslin

German militant leader, Red Army Faction founder
Born
August 15th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 37 years old

A prominent figure in leftist militancy during the 1970s. Played a critical role in the founding of the Red Army Faction, a West German terrorist organization. Engaged in numerous acts of political violence aiming to oppose capitalism and U.S. influence in Europe. Captured and imprisoned in connection with various terrorist activities. Died in custody under controversial circumstances.

Continue Reading

Nunnally Johnson

American director and screenwriter
Born
December 5th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent figure in American cinema, one major role included serving as a screenwriter and director for several classic films. Started in the silent film era and transitioned successfully to talkies, contributing significantly to the storytelling of that age. Directed and wrote screenplays for notable films that showcased a variety of genres, demonstrating versatility and skill in film production. Worked as a producer on various projects, further solidifying a significant presence in Hollywood.

Continue Reading

Tom C. Clark

Attorney General of the United States
Born
September 23rd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 78 years old

Served as the 59th Attorney General of the United States from 1945 to 1949. Played a significant role in various legal matters during the Truman administration. Appointed to the Supreme Court in 1949 and served until 1967, contributing to numerous landmark decisions. Resigned from the Court to support the civil rights movement, signaling a commitment to social justice.

Continue Reading

Scott Bradley

American pianist and composer of cartoons
Born
November 26th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent American pianist, composer, and conductor, significant contributions were made to the field of animation music. Bradley served as the principal composer for the MGM cartoon studio from the late 1930s to the 1950s. His musical style combined classical and popular elements, which set a unique tone for animated shorts. Works included memorable scores for the Tom and Jerry series, featuring distinctive themes that enhanced the comedic timing of the animations. Also composed music for the Droopy cartoons, contributing to the soundscape of early animated television and film. Bradley's innovative methods in scoring influenced how music was integrated into animation, leaving a lasting legacy in the art form.

Continue Reading

Jan Zrzavý

Czech painter and illustrator of landscapes
Born
November 5th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1890, an influential painter and illustrator emerged from the Czech Republic. This artist became recognized for unique landscapes and dreamlike compositions that combined elements of fantasy and surrealism. His artworks often depicted ethereal landscapes that reflected a connection to Czech folklore and history. In addition to painting, he contributed illustrations to various literary works, showcasing an intersection of visual art and literature. His distinctive style incorporated a sense of mysticism and the exploration of light and color, which garnered attention in both national and international art circles. Zrzavý's legacy continued to inspire future generations of artists in the Czech Republic and beyond.

Continue Reading