What Happened This Year 1979

People Who Died in 1979

Dhyan Chand

Field hockey player, 3-time Olympic gold medalist
Born
August 29th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1979 45 years ago — 74 years old

An Indian field hockey player, celebrated for exceptional skills and sportsmanship during the early 20th century. Played for the Indian national team, leading to three Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936. Instrumental in establishing India as a dominant force in international field hockey. Chand's unique ability to control the ball and his goal-scoring prowess earned admiration worldwide. His legacy is commemorated in various honors and awards in the realm of sports.

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Jesse Pearson

American actor and screenwriter
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1979 45 years ago — 49 years old

An American actor, singer, and screenwriter engaged in film and television. Achieved recognition for roles in productions such as the 1963 film 'Bye Bye Birdie' as Conrad Birdie, which garnered significant attention. Involved in various theatrical performances, showcasing talent in both acting and music throughout different stages of career. Contributed writing to projects, expanding creative involvement beyond acting. Had a career spanning several decades and maintained presence in entertainment until the late 1970s. Passed away in December 1979.

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Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin

Astronomer noted for stellar atmospheres
Born
May 10th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1979 45 years ago — 79 years old

An English-American astronomer and astrophysicist, played a pivotal role in advancing the understanding of stellar atmospheres. Discovered that the sun is composed mainly of hydrogen and helium, fundamentally altering the field of astrophysics. Published a groundbreaking thesis that laid the foundation for modern astrophysics. Contributed to the understanding of variable stars and the structure of the Milky Way galaxy. Served as a professor at Harvard University, leading the department of astronomy.

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Fulton J. Sheen

Archbishop and television personality
Born
May 8th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1979 45 years ago — 84 years old

An American archbishop, played a significant role in the Catholic Church during the mid-20th century. Gained prominence as a television personality, hosting the program 'Life is Worth Living' which aired from 1952 to 1957. Authored numerous books on faith and spirituality that reached a wide audience. Became a prominent figure in religious broadcasting, contributing to the dialogue on social issues from a Catholic perspective. Served as Bishop of Rochester and later as an auxiliary bishop of New York. His work in media helped to modernize the Church's approach to engaging with the public.

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Ann Dvorak

American actress from early cinema
Born
August 2nd, 1911 113 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1979 45 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1911, this American actress gained prominence during the golden age of Hollywood. Dvorak began her career in silent films, transitioning successfully to talkies. She emerged as a leading lady in the 1930s, becoming recognized for her performances in films such as 'Three on a Match' and 'The Crowd Roars'. Dvorak's work showcased her talent for portraying complex characters, leading to memorable roles throughout her career. In addition to her film work, she appeared on stage and in television, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

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Jon Hall

Actor in 'The Hurricane' and director
Born
February 23rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1979 45 years ago — 64 years old

An American actor and director, Hall gained prominence in the 1940s. He starred in the film 'The Hurricane', which showcased his talent and led to further opportunities in Hollywood. Hall also directed and produced several films, extending his influence beyond acting. His work in the entertainment industry contributed to the growth of his career and left a mark on the film landscape of the era.

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Behçet Necatigil

Turkish poet and translator
Born
April 16th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1979 45 years ago — 63 years old

An influential Turkish poet and translator, this individual made significant contributions to Turkish literature during the 20th century. Educational background included studying at Istanbul University in the Faculty of Literature. The poetry collection 'The Place to Go' garnered attention for its unique style and themes. Later, other major works included 'A Yearning for Memory', blending modernist influences with traditional Turkish forms. Additionally, this individual translated notable works from various languages into Turkish, enriching the literary landscape of the country.

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Darryl F. Zanuck

Film producer and studio executive
Born
September 5th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1979 45 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent figure in Hollywood, Zanuck co-founded 20th Century Fox and served as a pivotal force in the studio's production operations. His career spanned several decades during which he produced acclaimed films that garnered multiple Academy Awards. Zanuck's influence on the film industry was significant as he shapes numerous productions that helped define cinematic storytelling in the mid-20th century. He held various positions within the industry, including writer and director, ultimately becoming a central figure in the Golden Age of Hollywood.

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Peggy Guggenheim

Art collector and philanthropist
Born
August 26th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1979 45 years ago — 81 years old

An art collector and philanthropist, significant contributions to modern art occurred through the establishment of a renowned collection in Venice. A prominent figure in the 20th-century art scene, the individual promoted and supported numerous artists, particularly those linked to the avant-garde movements. The American-Italian legacy was solidified with the founding of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, which showcases a vast array of modern artwork and serves as a cultural hub.

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