What Happened This Year 1978

People Who Died in 1978

Jean Deslauriers

Canadian violinist and conductor
Born
June 24th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1978 46 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1909 in Canada, significant contributions were made to the fields of music as a violinist, composer, and conductor. Completion of formal studies led to a successful career in classical music. Conducted numerous orchestras and performed as a soloist in various prestigious venues. Composed original works that enriched the Canadian music scene and played a vital role in the promotion of classical music in Canada.

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József Bozsik

Hungarian footballer and manager
Born
November 28th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1978 46 years ago — 52 years old

A prominent Hungarian footballer and manager played primarily as a midfielder. His career began with Újpest FC, later joining the Hungarian national team. Notable for participation in the legendary 'Mighty Magyars' squad during the 1950s, contributing to significant victories in international football. Transitioned into management following playing retirement, leading various teams in Hungary and fostering football talent.

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Santiago Bernabéu Yeste

Football Manager and Stadium Namesake
Born
June 8th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1978 46 years ago — 82 years old

A significant figure in football management and administration, played an instrumental role in shaping the modern era of Real Madrid. Managed the club from 1943 to 1978, leading the team to numerous victories and establishing it as a powerhouse in European football. Oversaw the construction of the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, enhancing the club's prestige and capacity. The stadium became a symbol of the team's success, hosting numerous high-profile matches and events.

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Ronald George Wreyford Norrish

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 9th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1978 46 years ago — 80 years old

An English chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of chemical kinetics. Developed flash photolysis, a technique that allowed for the observation of rapid chemical reactions. Served as a professor at the University of Cambridge, where research encompassed various aspects of physical chemistry. Honored with the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1967, sharing the award for investigations of extremely fast chemical reactions. Published numerous papers and worked extensively on the behavior of molecules in different states.

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Guo Moruo

Chinese historian and poet
Born
November 16th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1978 46 years ago — 85 years old

Contributed extensively to the field of history and literature in China. Served as a prominent figure in the Chinese literary scene and was involved in the early years of the Communist Party. Worked as a historian and played a vital role in editing many historical texts. Authored numerous poems and essays, blending traditional Chinese literary forms with modern themes. Held various government positions, including the role of president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

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Georg Siimenson

Estonian footballer and international player
Born
April 14th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1978 46 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1912 in Estonia, this footballer contributed significantly to the sport in his home country. He played for the national team in the 1930s, representing Estonia in various international competitions. His career included stints with several clubs, where he demonstrated skill and athleticism on the field. He participated in the 1934 FIFA World Cup qualification rounds, marking a notable period in Estonian football history.

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Walter C. Alvarez

Physician and author of 'Medicine on Trial'
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1978 46 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent American physician and author, contributed significantly to the field of medicine. Focused on the intersection of medicine and law, particularly regarding medical malpractice. Authored several influential books, including 'Medicine on Trial,' which examined the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in the courtroom. Served as a professor at the University of California, San Francisco, where taught medical students the principles of clinical practice and ethics. Engaged in public health discussions and wrote extensively on medical issues in various publications.

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Mark Robson

Film director and producer of'Home of the Brave'
Born
December 4th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1978 46 years ago — 64 years old

A Canadian-American director and producer, made significant contributions to the film industry. Transitioned from working as an editor to directing, initially focusing on documentaries before delving into feature films. Gained recognition for directing ‘Home of the Brave’ in 1949, a notable anti-war film. Worked on various successful projects throughout the 1950s and 1960s, earning a reputation for handling complex narratives and character-driven stories. Collaborated with renowned actors and filmmakers over a prolific career, which included both commercial and critical successes. The work often reflected themes of identity, morality, and the human experience, engaging audiences with its depth and storytelling.

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Clifford Dupont

1st President of Rhodesia
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1978 46 years ago — 73 years old

Pursued a career in law before entering politics. Served as the first president of Rhodesia from 1970 until the country's transition to majority rule in 1979. Held various governmental roles during the national struggle for independence, often advocating for the interests of the white minority. Played a significant part in the unilateral declaration of independence from Britain in 1965, leading to international isolation and conflict. After the collapse of the Rhodesian government, faced exile until death in 1978.

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