1977 1979

What Happened This Year 1978

All Events 105 Births 689 Deaths 229

People Who Died in 1978

Aleksander Kamiński

Polish author and educator

Born

January 28th, 1903 122 years ago

Died

1978 47 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed significantly to Polish literature and education. Published several influential works, focusing on youth literature and educational theories. Actively engaged in the education system, providing innovative methods for teaching. Established programs that emphasized the importance of history and patriotism in education. Played a role in fostering literary culture in Poland during challenging times.

Gaston Julia

Mathematician known for complex analysis

Born

February 3rd, 1893 132 years ago

Died

1978 47 years ago — 85 years old

Significant contributions to mathematics included work on complex analysis. Developed the theory of iterations of complex functions and introduced the concept of the Julia set, which played a crucial role in fractal geometry. Held prestigious academic positions and influenced generations of mathematicians through both research and teaching. Contributed to the field during a time of significant mathematical development in the 20th century.

Dit Clapper

Ice hockey player and coach

Born

February 9th, 1907 118 years ago

Died

1978 47 years ago — 71 years old

Played professional ice hockey primarily for the Boston Bruins in the National Hockey League (NHL). Participated in the NHL for 20 seasons from 1927 to 1947, and contributed as a defenseman. Served as the head coach for the Bruins after retirement. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1975, recognizing a successful playing and coaching career.

Josef Frings

German Cardinal and Vatican leader

Born

February 6th, 1887 138 years ago

Died

1978 47 years ago — 91 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Cologne from 1942 until death in 1978. Played a significant role in the Second Vatican Council, contributing to important reforms within the Catholic Church. Advocated for social justice and helped to improve the Church's relationship with the German government post-World War II. His efforts in enhancing ecumenical dialogue led to greater collaboration among Christian denominations.