What Happened This Year 1978

People Who Died in 1978

William F. Harrah

Businessman and founder of Harrah's
Born
September 2nd, 1911 113 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 67 years old

A businessman founded Harrah's Entertainment, a major player in the gaming and hospitality industry. Established the company in 1937, creating one of the first casino hotel resorts in Las Vegas. Contributed to the growth of the Las Vegas Strip and set new standards for customer service in the gaming industry. Expanded the business across several states, making it one of the largest casino operators in the world. Played a significant role in shaping the modern casino experience.

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Masao Koga

Japanese composer and guitarist of the 20th century
Born
November 18th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent composer and guitarist from Japan, contributions to the music scene during the 20th century included creating a unique blend of Western and traditional Japanese music. Koga studied at the Tokyo Music School and later became a significant figure in cultivating popular music in Japan. In addition to original compositions, he collaborated with various artists and expanded the acoustic guitar’s presence in Japanese music. His works often featured complex harmonies and innovative techniques, receiving recognition both in Japan and internationally. Koga's musical legacy continues to influence musicians across genres.

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Kathleen Kenyon

Archaeologist known for Jericho excavations
Born
January 5th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 72 years old

An English archaeologist and academic specialized in Near Eastern archaeology. Conducted major excavations at the ancient site of Jericho in the 1950s, uncovering the city's historical layers and demonstrating evidence of early urban settlement. Worked at other significant sites, including Samaria and the Negev Desert. Contributed to the understanding of the transition from prehistory to history in the region and published numerous influential works on her findings. Held academic positions at universities and was a pioneering figure in the study of archaeology, particularly related to the origins of agriculture and urbanization.

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Maybelle Carter

Autoharp player and country musician
Born
May 10th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 69 years old

An influential autoharp player and country musician, contributed significantly to the development of American country music. As a member of the Carter Family, participated in groundbreaking recordings that shaped the genre in the 1920s and 1930s. The Carter Family became one of the earliest and most important groups in country music history, helping to popularize traditional folk songs. Maintained a long and successful career, performing and recording until the late 20th century.

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Alby Roberts

Cricketer and rugby player from New Zealand
Born
August 20th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 69 years old

Played first-class cricket and represented New Zealand in rugby union. Had a dual sports career, achieving success in cricket during the 1930s while also earning caps for the national rugby team. Contributed significantly to both sports at the domestic and international levels. In cricket, played for Wellington and was part of the New Zealand cricket team that played its first Test matches. In rugby, was a member of the All Blacks, participating in key matches.

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Robert Sobukwe

South African politician and activist
Born
December 5th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1924, played a significant role in South Africa's anti-apartheid movement. Initially a member of the African National Congress, later founded the Pan Africanist Congress in 1959. Advocated for African nationalism and land reform, opposing the apartheid government's racial policies. Arrested in 1960 following the Sharpeville massacre and subjected to political detention without trial. Maintained political activism despite government restrictions and censorship until his death in 1978.

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Ford C. Frick

American sports executive and journalist
Born
December 19th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the President of the National League from 1951 to 1963 and later as the Commissioner of Major League Baseball from 1965 to 1969. Played a significant role in the expansion of baseball and the establishment of the Major League Baseball All-Star Game. Also contributed as a sports journalist, providing coverage and insights into the world of baseball.

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Ralston Crawford

American painter and photographer
Born
September 5th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent painter, lithographer, and photographer active during the 20th century. Graduated from the Buffalo Fine Arts Academy and developed a unique style that integrated abstraction with elements of realism. Created significant works that often explored industrial themes and urban landscapes. Worked extensively in both painting and lithography, gaining recognition for the innovative techniques applied in his art. Later in life, shifted focus to photography, capturing scenes of industrial America. Participated in numerous exhibitions and contributed to various art movements.

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André Morell

English Actor in Classic Films and Theatre
Born
August 20th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 69 years old

Gained recognition as an English actor, with a career spanning stage and film. Notable performances include roles in the classic horror film 'The Curse of Frankenstein' and the renowned television adaptation of 'The Quatermass Experiment'. Also featured in the acclaimed movies 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' and 'Lawrence of Arabia'. His theatrical work included significant performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company. Contributed to various television dramas and series throughout several decades.

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