What Happened This Year 1979

People Who Died in 1979

Nino Rota

Composer of film scores and operas
Born
December 3rd, 1911 113 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1979 45 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent Italian composer and conductor, Rota contributed extensively to film music and classical compositions. Rota composed scores for iconic films directed by Federico Fellini, including 'La Dolce Vita' and '8½'. His work in film garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Score for 'The Godfather'. In addition to his film work, Rota composed symphonies, operas, and concertos, showcasing a profound understanding of orchestration and melody throughout his career. Rota's unique style blended traditional Italian music with contemporary trends, earning respect in both the classical music community and the film industry.

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David Brand

Australian Politician, 19th Premier of WA
Born
August 1st, 1912 112 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1979 45 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 19th Premier of Western Australia from 1959 to 1971. Led the Liberal Party in the state and was instrumental in various legislative reforms during his time in office. Oversaw significant economic developments in Western Australia, contributing to the state's post-war recovery and growth. Worked to strengthen the state's infrastructure and education system, influencing the political landscape of Western Australia.

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Muhsin Ertuğrul

Turkish actor and theater director
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1979 45 years ago — 87 years old

An influential figure in Turkish theater, contributed significantly to the development of modern Turkish drama. Founded the first Turkish private theater and served as a director and actor in numerous productions. Worked in both theater and cinema, directing and performing in various notable plays and films. His efforts helped shape the theatrical landscape in Turkey during the early 20th century.

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Giulio Natta

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
February 26th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1979 45 years ago — 76 years old

An Italian chemist contributed significantly to the development of plastics and synthetic rubber. He served as a professor at the Polytechnic University of Milan. Research focused on stereospecific polymerization. Collaborated with Karl Ziegler, leading to advancements in polymer chemistry. Played a crucial role in the discovery of techniques for producing polypropylene and polyethylene.

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Eddie Jefferson

Jazz Singer-Songwriter with 'Vocalese'
Born
August 3rd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1979 45 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent figure in jazz music, this singer-songwriter contributed significantly to the genre of vocalese, where lyrics are written to jazz instrumental solos. Rising to fame in the 1940s and 1950s, he worked alongside notable musicians and bands, including the likes of the Count Basie Orchestra. Jefferson's innovative style and unique interpretations of classics helped to popularize vocal arrangements in jazz. His work influenced many artists that followed. His performance at the 1956 Newport Jazz Festival showcased his talent and solidified his place in jazz history.

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Cyrus S. Eaton

Businessman and Philanthropist
Born
December 27th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1979 45 years ago — 95 years old

Born in 1883, a Canadian-American businessman and philanthropist who founded the Eaton Hall School on Salt Spring Island and was a major figure in the steel and railroad industries. Established personal and business ties with prominent figures and engaged in various philanthropic efforts, including education and cultural initiatives. Involved in significant investments in Canada and the United States, particularly in the 20th century.

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Lester Flatt

Bluegrass musician and songwriter
Born
June 19th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1979 45 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent bluegrass singer-songwriter and musician, contributed significantly to the genre's development. Founded the legendary band, The Foggy Mountain Boys, alongside Earl Scruggs. Gained widespread recognition for the song "The Ballad of Jed Clampett," which served as the theme for the TV show 'The Beverly Hillbillies.' Recorded numerous albums throughout the 1950s and 1960s, showcasing a distinctive style that blended traditional Appalachian music with contemporary influences. Influenced a generation of musicians and served as a key figure in defining bluegrass music.

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Jean Rhys

Dominican-British novelist, Wide Sargasso Sea
Born
August 24th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1979 45 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1890, the author spent early years in Dominica before moving to England. The literary career began with short stories and novels in the 1920s. A significant work, Wide Sargasso Sea, published in 1966, is a prequel to Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre, exploring themes of colonialism and identity. The narrative is centered around Antoinette Cosway, a Creole woman confronting cultural and racial tensions in Jamaica. Rhys faced struggles with personal life and mental health, influencing her writing style and themes. Later works include Good Morning, Midnight and Voyage in the Dark.

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A. Philip Randolph

Labor leader and civil rights activist
Born
April 15th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1979 45 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent labor leader and civil rights activist, contributions included organizing the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the first predominantly African American labor union. Played a significant role in the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, rallying support for civil rights and economic justice. Advocated for the rights of workers and promoted racial equality throughout a lengthy career in social justice activism. Helped to foster alliances between labor unions and civil rights organizations, enhancing cooperation in the fight for equality.

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