What Happened This Year 1979

People Who Died in 1979

Jack Soo

Actor and singer in television and film
Born
October 28th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 62 years old

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.

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Ted Cassidy

Actor, best known as Lurch
Born
July 31st, 1932 93 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 47 years old

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.'

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Louise Thaden

American pilot and air racer
Born
November 12th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 74 years old

An American pilot excelled in aviation during the 1920s and 1930s. Achieved significant recognition for winning the Women’s National Air Derby in 1929, becoming the first woman to win the prestigious race. Secured victories in multiple air races, including the 1936 Bendix Trophy Race, contributing to the advancement of women in aviation. Worked as a flight instructor and played a role in promoting aviation education for women throughout her career.

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István Örkény

Hungarian author known for 'Cats' Play
Born
April 5th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Hungary in 1912, an author and playwright contributed significantly to modern Hungarian literature. Örkény's works often combined absurdity and social criticism, with a focus on the human condition. Most notable is the play 'Tóték' which reflects the absurdity of post-war life. His short stories, particularly those in 'One Minute Stories', showcase a unique blend of humor and tragedy. Örkény's literary career spanned several decades until his death in 1979.

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Karl Anton

German director and screenwriter
Born
October 25th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 81 years old

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.

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Charles Coughlin

Radio host and priest with political influence
Born
October 25th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 88 years old

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.

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Eileen Shanahan

Irish poet with significant works
Born
October 28th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 78 years old

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.

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Marie Byles

Australian solicitor and environmentalist
Born
April 8th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 79 years old

A solicitor by profession, actively engaged in legal advocacy for land and environmental preservation. Contributed to numerous campaigns for the conservation of natural landscapes in New South Wales. Byles was an inaugural member of the National Parks and Wildlife Service and utilized legal frameworks to protect national parks. Authored several works discussing environmental concerns and the importance of nature conservation.

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Habib Elghanian

Businessman with notable contributions
Born
April 5th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent businessman in Iran, established and expanded significant commercial ventures. Contributed to the textiles and construction industries, becoming an influential figure in the economic landscape of the country. Actively engaged in various philanthropic efforts, supporting education and healthcare initiatives. Faced political challenges during the Iranian Revolution, leading to a complicated legacy.

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