What Happened This Year 1980

People Who Died in 1980

Oswald Mosley

English fascist leader and politician
Born
November 16th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1980 44 years ago — 84 years old

An English politician and the founder of the British Union of Fascists, established in 1932. Advocated for fascist policies and sought to gain political power through the party, which gained attention during the interwar period. His vision included aligning Britain with Nazi Germany and implementing a totalitarian regime. Mosley faced significant opposition through his political career, leading to multiple arrests and public disapproval during World War II. Following the war, he remained an active figure in far-right politics, continuing to publish and speak on his views until the end of his life.

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Francisco de Sá Carneiro

Portuguese Prime Minister
Born
July 19th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1980 44 years ago — 46 years old

Served as the 111th Prime Minister of Portugal from 1979 until his death in a plane crash in 1980. Played a significant role in the formation of the Social Democratic Party and was a prominent figure in Portuguese politics during the post-Revolution period. Advocated for democratic governance and economic reform in Portugal following the Carnation Revolution. His vision aimed at modernizing the nation and integrating it into European structures.

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Stanisława Walasiewicz

Polish-American Olympic sprinter
Born
April 3rd, 1911 113 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1980 44 years ago — 69 years old

Competed in track and field, specializing in sprints. Achieved significant success at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, winning a gold medal in the 100 meters. Also participated in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, securing a silver medal in the same event. Set world records in the 100 meters and 200 meters, showcasing exceptional speed and athleticism. Transitioned to a coaching role after retirement from competitive athletics.

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Charles Deutsch

French engineer and DB co-founder
Born
September 6th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1980 44 years ago — 69 years old

An engineer and businessman co-founded DB in 1938, a renowned manufacturer of sports cars. Under leadership, the company became recognized for its innovative designs and performance. The brand gained fame in the mid-20th century for its successes in motorsports. DB's vehicles featured advanced engineering techniques and unique styling that contributed to the company's stature in the automotive industry. The legacy of DB continued long after the founder's passing in 1980.

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Darby Crash

Punk rock singer-songwriter, The Germs
Born
September 26th, 1958 66 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1980 44 years ago — 22 years old

A prominent figure in the early punk rock scene, made significant contributions as the lead singer of the band The Germs. The Germs formed in 1977 and became an influential part of the Los Angeles punk movement. Released the album 'GI' in 1979, recognized for its raw sound and energy. Crash's performance style and lyrical content resonated within the punk community, and he became a symbol of the genre's ethos. His life was marked by struggles with addiction, which ultimately led to his death in 1980 at the age of 22, but remains a notable influence on punk music.

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John Lennon

Singer-songwriter and member of The Beatles
Born
October 9th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1980 44 years ago — 40 years old

An English singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, contributed significantly to modern music. Co-founded The Beatles, one of the most influential bands in history. Wrote and performed iconic songs such as 'Imagine' and 'Hey Jude'. After disbanding The Beatles, pursued a solo career with notable albums including 'Plastic Ono Band' and 'Double Fantasy'. Engaged in various peace activism efforts, advocating for social change and human rights throughout his life.

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Jean Lesage

Canadian politician and Premier of Quebec
Born
June 10th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
December 12th, 1980 44 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the 11th Premier of Quebec from 1960 to 1966. Initiated significant reforms during the Quiet Revolution, including modernization of health care and education systems. Advocated for increased provincial autonomy and economic development. Represented the Liberal Party and was instrumental in establishing the Quebec Pension Plan.

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Elston Howard

Baseball player and coach, Yankees star
Born
February 23rd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1980 44 years ago — 51 years old

A professional baseball player and coach, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball during the mid-20th century. Played as a catcher and first baseman, primarily for the New York Yankees. Became the first African American player for the Yankees, breaking racial barriers in the sport. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, influencing future generations of players.

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Hellmuth Walter

German-American engineer and inventor
Born
August 26th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1980 44 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Germany and later emigrating to the United States, contributed significantly to the development of rocket propulsion systems. Focused on innovative designs for jet engines and high-altitude technologies. Worked on various military projects during World War II and after. Founded a company specializing in aerospace engineering and advanced propulsion technology.

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