What Happened This Year 1979
People Who Died in 1979
Jack Soo
An American actor and singer, active primarily in the 1960s and 1970s. Featured in notable television series and films, including a role in the sitcom 'Barney Miller' as Detective Nick Yemana. Also performed in Broadway productions such as 'Flower Drum Song'. His career spanned various mediums, showcasing talents both in acting and singing. His contributions to television during its formative years highlighted the experiences of Asian Americans.
Continue ReadingTed Cassidy
An American actor and screenwriter, involved in film, television, and voice acting. Best recognized for portraying Lurch in the television series 'The Addams Family.' His deep voice and tall stature contributed to his unique roles in various projects. Also performed in 'Star Trek,' playing the character of the android Ruk. Career highlights include significant work as a voice actor, contributing to cartoons, including 'The Fantastic Four.'
Continue ReadingAmos Strunk
Played in Major League Baseball primarily as an outfielder from 1910 to 1920. Managed multiple teams after his playing career, contributing to the development of the sport. Achieved recognition for his skills on the field and leadership off of it.
Continue ReadingKarl Anton
A director and screenwriter active during the early to mid-20th century, contributed to the German film industry through various notable works. Directed films that integrated storytelling with visual artistry. Collaborated with prominent actors and was influential in the development of the film narrative style in Germany.
Continue ReadingCharles Coughlin
A Canadian-American Roman Catholic priest, gained prominence in the 1930s as a radio host, delivering weekly sermons that attracted a large national audience. Coughlin's broadcasts often addressed economic issues and social justice, blending faith with politics. Initially supportive of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, later criticized the New Deal and moved towards more controversial political positions, including populist and anti-Semitic rhetoric. In the later years of his career, faced backlash due to his extremist views and decreased influence over time. Continued to publish a newspaper until the late 1960s.
Continue ReadingEileen Shanahan
Eileen Shanahan was an Irish poet recognized for her contributions to modern poetry. Primarily active in the 20th century, her works often explored themes of identity, nature, and human experience. Shanahan published several collections that garnered critical attention and highlighted her unique voice within the literary scene. Her poetry was characterized by its lyrical quality and deep emotional resonance, reflecting both personal and cultural narratives. Throughout her career, she engaged with various literary movements, contributing to the evolution of Irish poetry during her time. She remained an influential figure in Irish literature until her passing in 1996.
Continue ReadingRoy Markham
A prominent figure in plant virology, conducted significant research on plant viruses affecting crops. Contributions included important work on the etiology of various viral diseases that impacted agricultural practices. Developed techniques for virus detection and management in different plant species. Participated in collaborative projects aimed at enhancing plant health and resilience against viral infections. Published findings in various scientific journals that advanced understanding of plant virology.
Continue ReadingPierre Bernac
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.
Continue ReadingKatharine Burr Blodgett
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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