What Happened This Year 1979

People Who Died in 1979

Abul A'la Maududi

Theologian, Islamic scholar, and jurist
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1979 45 years ago — 76 years old

Contributed to Islamic thought and political theory. Founded the Jamaat-e-Islami political party in 1941 in British India, which focused on establishing a governance based on Islamic principles. Authored numerous works on Islam, including 'Towards Understanding Islam' and 'Islamic Way of Life', which have been influential in Islamic education. Promoted the establishment of an Islamic state based on his interpretation of Quranic teachings. Engaged in various political movements and was a critic of Western imperialism.

Continue Reading

Catherine Lacey

English actress in stage and film
Born
May 6th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1979 45 years ago — 75 years old

This English actress appeared in numerous stage productions and films during her career. Lacey's impressive work included performances in acclaimed productions both in the theatre and in cinema. Her acting career spanned several decades, showcasing her talent and versatility across different genres.

Continue Reading

Arthur Hunnicutt

American actor, Academy Award nominee
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1979 45 years ago — 69 years old

Acted in film and television, gaining recognition for performances in Westerns. Appeared in the film 'The Westerner' in 1940, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Gained prominence with roles in other notable films, including 'Shane' and 'The Bad Seed'. Carries a reputation for playing character roles, often portraying elderly, rugged men or cowboys. Worked extensively in theater and television, contributing to various productions over several decades.

Continue Reading

Gracie Fields

English actress and singer, comedy star
Born
January 9th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1979 45 years ago — 81 years old

Fields was an English actress and singer who gained prominence during the early to mid-20th century. She starred in a number of films, including 'Sing As We Go' and 'Looking on the Bright Side'. Additionally, Fields achieved success in theatrical performances and music, particularly in the genre of music hall. Her talent and charisma made her a beloved figure in entertainment.

Continue Reading

Jimmy McCulloch

Scottish musician and songwriter, guitarist
Born
June 4th, 1953 71 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1979 45 years ago — 26 years old

A Scottish musician and songwriter gained prominence in the 1970s as the lead guitarist for the band Wings, performing alongside Paul McCartney. McCulloch contributed to notable albums including 'Wild Life' and 'Red Rose Speedway'. He also played with the band Stone the Crows and was involved in various musical projects throughout his career. His work showcased a blend of rock and blues influences, demonstrating notable guitar skills and songwriting capabilities.

Continue Reading

Ivan Wyschnegradsky

Composer and pioneer of microtonality
Born
1893 132 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1979 45 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent composer associated with microtonal music, greatly influenced the development of this genre. Studied at the St. Petersburg Conservatory and later worked in Paris. Contributed to the exploration of non-Western scales and tuning systems. Published works and theoretical writings advanced the understanding of microtonal structures. Migrated to France where significant compositions further established his reputation. Developed a unique style that emphasized the use of quarter tones, known as the 'Wyschnegradsky system,' which inspired subsequent generations of composers in the field of microtonality.

Continue Reading

Francisco Macías Nguema

Equatorial Guinean politician, 1st President
Born
January 1st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1979 45 years ago — 55 years old

Became the first president of Equatorial Guinea after the country’s independence from Spain in 1968. Established a one-party state and ruled with an authoritarian style, promoting his regime's ideology under a philosophy called 'Marxism-Leninism'. Oversaw significant changes in governance, including nationalization of industries and land reform. His presidency was marked by widespread political repression and human rights abuses, leading to a deep national unrest. A military coup in 1979 resulted in his removal from power and subsequent execution.

Continue Reading

Nicos Poulantzas

Sociologist and philosopher, State, Power
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1979 45 years ago — 43 years old

Greek-French sociologist and philosopher focused on political theory and sociology. Contributed significantly to the understanding of state power and capitalism through a Marxist lens. Explored the relationship between state and society, offering insights into the role of the state in capitalist societies. His works examined issues of class, power, and the state apparatus. Died in 1979 at a time when his theories were gaining prominence in academic discourse.

Continue Reading

Elizabeth Bishop

American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
February 8th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1979 45 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1911, a prominent American poet whose work is celebrated for its precise imagery and exploration of emotional landscapes. Published collections include 'North & South' and 'Geography III'. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1956 for 'Poems: 1927-1979'. Served as the poet laureate of the United States from 1949 to 1950.

Continue Reading