What Happened This Year 1979

People Who Died in 1979

Charles Shadwell

English conductor and bandleader
Born
March 26th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1979 45 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1898, an English conductor and bandleader contributed significantly to the music scene throughout the 20th century. Shadwell conducted various prestigious orchestras and was known for innovative programming and community engagement in music. He led performances that featured classical works and contemporary compositions, bridging the gap between traditional and modern music. His leadership in the music community fostered the development of orchestral programs and educational outreach, making music accessible to a broader audience.

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Bill Todman

American screenwriter and producer of 'The Twilight Zone'
Born
July 31st, 1916 108 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1979 45 years ago — 62 years old

Contributed significantly to the television industry as a screenwriter and producer. Worked alongside partner Charles E. Goodman to co-create various successful television shows. Instrumental in the production of the anthology series 'The Twilight Zone', which became a landmark in American television. Also contributed to the creation of other shows such as 'The Defenders' and 'Nice Time'. Over the years, produced and co-produced a number of popular television programs that garnered critical and audience acclaim.

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Herbert Marcuse

Sociologist and philosopher, One-Dimensional Man
Born
July 19th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1979 45 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Germany, significant contributions to sociology and philosophy were made during the 20th century. Emigrated to the United States in the 1930s. Writings focused on critiques of modern capitalist societies. One of the prominent members of the Frankfurt School of critical theory. The book 'One-Dimensional Man' examined the effects of consumerism on human freedom. Engaged with countercultural movements in the 1960s, influencing leftist thought during that era.

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Beatrix Lehmann

English actress in stage and film
Born
July 1st, 1903 121 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1979 45 years ago — 76 years old

An English actress gained recognition for performances in theatre and film. Career spanned several decades, with significant work in plays and classic movies. Notably involved in England's theatrical scene, showcasing abilities in both comedic and dramatic roles. Featured in the film 'The Innocents' and had a prominent career in productions at The Old Vic.

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Thurman Munson

Baseball catcher for the New York Yankees
Born
June 7th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1979 45 years ago — 32 years old

A celebrated catcher for the New York Yankees, played from 1969 until 1979. Contributed to the team's success, leading them to three World Series titles in 1970, 1977, and 1978. Received the American League Rookie of the Year Award in 1970 and was a seven-time All-Star during his career. Remembered for his leadership on and off the field, as well as his strong batting average and defensive skills.

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Bertil Ohlin

Economist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
April 23rd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1979 45 years ago — 80 years old

A Swedish economist and politician contributed significantly to economic theory, particularly the Heckscher-Ohlin model of international trade. This theory explained how countries trade based on their factor endowments. Ohlin served as a Professor of International Economics at the Stockholm School of Economics. In 1977, he was awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences alongside Paul Samuelson for their work in the field. Ohlin also engaged in politics, serving as a member of the Swedish parliament and holding the position of Minister of Trade. His academic career included teaching and publishing influential works on economic policy.

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Feodor Felix Konrad Lynen

German biochemist and Nobel laureate
Born
April 6th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1979 45 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent biochemist, contributions focused on cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1964 for groundbreaking discoveries in the field of lipid metabolism. Served as a professor at the Technical University of Munich, influencing future generations of scientists through teaching and research. Published extensive research that aided in the understanding of cellular processes.

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Nicholas Monsarrat

English author and sailor, wrote 'The Cruel Sea'
Born
March 22nd, 1910 114 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1979 45 years ago — 69 years old

An English author and sailor, contributed significantly to literature and naval fiction. Served in the Royal Navy during World War II, which inspired writings that reflected experiences at sea. Gained recognition for the novel 'The Cruel Sea', detailing the Battle of the Atlantic and life aboard a Royal Navy corvette. The book was adapted into a successful film in 1953, further popularizing the narrative. Other works included 'The Tribe that Lost its Head' and 'The Golden Eagle'. An advocate for naval history, writings combined personal experiences with fictional storytelling.

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Raymond Washington

American gang leader, founded the Crips
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1979 45 years ago — 26 years old

A gang leader emerged in Los Angeles during the early 1970s. Co-founded a notorious street gang that became widely known across the United States. Played a significant role in establishing the gang's operations and influence in various neighborhoods. The Crips engaged in criminal activities, contributing to the gang culture prevalent in urban areas.

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