What Happened This Year 1979

People Who Died in 1979

Joan Blondell

American actress in 'Gold Diggers of 1933'
Born
August 30th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1979 45 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1906, Blondell gained early recognition on Broadway before transitioning to film. Her career flourished during the 1930s and 1940s, becoming a prominent figure in Warner Bros. She starred in musicals and comedies, often alongside major stars. Notable films include 'Gold Diggers of 1933' and 'The Wedding Present'. Throughout her career, she received critical acclaim and was nominated for various awards.

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Jordi Bonet

Canadian painter and sculptor
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1979 45 years ago — 47 years old

A Canadian painter and sculptor, contributed significantly to the Canadian art scene through unique works that blended abstraction and realism. Born in Spain, moved to Canada where artistic career flourished. Known for large public murals and sculptures, played a pivotal role in the development of several major works in the country including public art installations and gallery exhibitions. His sculptures reflect a melding of his European roots with Canadian influences, showcasing a range of materials and techniques.

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Hafizullah Amin

Afghan politician and foreign minister
Born
August 1st, 1929 95 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1979 45 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent Afghan educator and politician served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan. Actively participated in the People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan, promoting socialist policies. His tenure as foreign minister was marked by efforts to navigate the complexities of Afghanistan's foreign relations during a politically turbulent era. Contributed to educational reforms in Afghanistan aimed at expanding literacy and access to education. His leadership was characterized by attempts to implement radical changes within the government structure.

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F. Edward Hébert

American journalist and politician
Born
1901 124 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1979 45 years ago — 78 years old

Served as a U.S. Congressman from Louisiana for over 30 years. Played a significant role in establishing the Selective Service System during the Vietnam War. Advocated for military and veterans' affairs throughout political career. Contributed to various committees, including the House Armed Services Committee.

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Richard Rodgers

American playwright and composer of musicals
Born
June 28th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1979 45 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent playwright and composer, contributed significantly to the American musical theatre landscape. Collaborated with lyricist Lorenz Hart in creating landmark shows such as "Pal Joey" and "Babes in Arms". Later partnered with Oscar Hammerstein II, resulting in classics like "Oklahoma!", "Carousel", "South Pacific", and "The Sound of Music". This body of work redefined musical theatre and set new standards for storytelling through song. His compositions garnered critical acclaim and left a lasting legacy in the arts.

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Beatrice Hicks

Engineer and pioneer in telecommunications
Born
January 2nd, 1919 106 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 60 years old

Pioneered advancements in telecommunications engineering. Contributed to the development of sensors and other technologies essential for radar systems. Worked at Bell Telephone Laboratories, focusing on the field of electronics. Co-founded the Society of Women Engineers and advocated for women’s roles in engineering and the sciences. Held numerous patents and authored publications throughout a lengthy career.

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Pierre Bernac

Opera singer and educator, founding figure
Born
January 12th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 80 years old

Originated as a celebrated French opera singer and educator. Studied under notable tutors in Paris and gained recognition for impressive vocal technique and artistry. Collaborated with prominent composers and worked extensively within French opera. Played a crucial role in teaching future generations of singers, contributing to the development of operatic performance in France. Contributed significantly to the popularity of French song through recordings and performances.

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Larisa Shepitko

Soviet film director and screenwriter
Born
January 6th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent Soviet film director, screenwriter, and actress, one of the leading figures in Soviet cinema during the 1970s. She directed several acclaimed films, including 'The Ascent', which won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival in 1977. Shepitko's work often explored themes of morality, spirituality, and the human condition. Alongside her directorial pursuits, she also contributed as a screenwriter, bringing a unique voice to Soviet film. Tragically, her career was cut short by an untimely death in a car accident at the young age of 41.

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Katharine Burr Blodgett

Physicist and engineer, developed non-reflective glass
Born
January 10th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 81 years old

A physicist and engineer, contributions include the invention of non-reflective glass, which revolutionized optics and improved the quality of scientific instruments. Completed a PhD in Physics at theUniversity of Cambridge, becoming the first woman to earn a PhD in physics in the U.S. Worked at General Electric, where further advancements in thin-film technology occurred. Held multiple patents for various inventions, particularly in the field of surface chemistry.

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