1976 1978

What Happened This Year 1977

All Events 113 Births 651 Deaths 239

People Who Died in 1977

George Barnes

Guitarist and songwriter, contributed to jazz

Born

July 17th, 1921 104 years ago

Died

1977 49 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.

Wim Schermerhorn

Dutch Prime Minister and Cartographer

Born

December 17th, 1894 131 years ago

Died

1977 49 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.

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.

Sid Atkinson

South African hurdler and long jumper

Born

March 14th, 1901 125 years ago

Died

1977 49 years ago — 76 years old

Competed in the 110 meters hurdles and long jump events. Represented South Africa in the 1920 Summer Olympics held in Antwerp. Won multiple national championships in athletics and set records in hurdles and long jump during his career.

Miloš Crnjanski

Serbian poet and author of The Lantern

Born

October 26th, 1893 132 years ago

Died

1977 49 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.