What Happened This Year 1980

People Who Died in 1980

Reid Blackburn

American photographer with significant works
Born
August 11th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 28 years old

Born in 1952, a prominent American photographer, specialized in nature and landscape photography. Gained recognition for capturing the dramatic beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Worked as a freelance photographer and contributed extensively to various magazines, showcasing the region's natural splendor. During a 1985 expedition to Mount St. Helens, documented the aftermath of the volcanic eruption, providing valuable insights into environmental changes. Belonged to the community of photographers that emphasized the importance of wilderness preservation through powerful imagery.

Continue Reading

Bo Rein

American football player and coach
Born
July 20th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 35 years old

Played college football at North Dakota State University, where he gained recognition as a standout quarterback. Transitioned to coaching, leading multiple high school teams and eventually serving as head coach for the Louisiana State University football team. During the coaching tenure, focused on team development and strategy, contributing to the growth of the program. Faced challenges before an untimely passing in a plane crash.

Continue Reading

Robert Brackman

Ukrainian-American painter and educator
Born
September 25th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Ukraine in 1898, this individual immigrated to the United States and became a prominent painter and educator. For decades, taught at various institutions, sharing knowledge in painting techniques and artistic expression. His work included a variety of subjects, including landscapes and portraits, often reflecting both his cultural heritage and life experiences. Exhibited extensively, contributing to the art community with both works and mentorship.

Continue Reading

Larry Williams

Singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
May 10th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 45 years old

An acclaimed American singer-songwriter and pianist, contributions include a celebrated career in rhythm and blues. Writings and performances featured a distinctive style combining rock and roll with New Orleans influences. Collaborated with various artists and producers, producing hit songs that became staples in the genre. Produced several albums that achieved chart success, showcasing a talent for engaging melodies and powerful lyrics.

Continue Reading

Harold Adamson

American lyricist of popular songs
Born
December 10th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 74 years old

This lyricist contributed significantly to the American music scene, particularly during the mid-20th century. Collaborations with various composers resulted in numerous popular songs that became classics. Worked extensively in film and television, contributing lyrics to several musicals and soundtracks. Established a successful career in both Broadway and Hollywood, gaining recognition for the ability to craft memorable and impactful lyrics. Some of the works spanned different genres and appealed to a wide audience.

Continue Reading

Valentin Varlamov

Soviet pilot and cosmonaut instructor
Born
August 15th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 46 years old

Served as a pilot and cosmonaut instructor in the Soviet space program. Engaged in training cosmonauts for various space missions. Participated in the development of aviation and space exploration techniques. Contributed to the preparation of crew members for spaceflight, focusing on both technical and psychological aspects of space travel.

Continue Reading

Andrée Bosquet

Painter with notable modernist works
Born
March 13th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Belgium, a prominent painter emerged in the 20th century. The artistic style incorporated elements of modernism and abstraction, reflecting the influences of the era. Exhibitions showcased works in numerous galleries, leading to recognition in the Belgian art scene. Contributions included both paintings and graphic works, with impactful displays at various events. The artist's career showcased a commitment to exploring color and form, while participating in important art movements in Belgium.

Continue Reading

Hans Hüttig

German SS officer during WWII
Born
April 5th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 86 years old

Served as an SS officer during World War II, participating in various military operations. Played a role in the administrative and logistical support for the Nazi regime. Hüttig's involvement included various functions directly related to the SS and its operations, contributing to the mechanisms of the regime's policies.

Continue Reading

Amir Elahi

Pakistani cricketer from the 1950s
Born
September 1st, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 72 years old

An accomplished cricketer, featured prominently in the early years of Pakistan's national cricket team. Played first-class cricket, contributing significant performances that helped establish the team's prominence in international cricket. Competed in various domestic leagues and represented regions in Pakistan, with his skills as an all-rounder being especially valued during matches.

Continue Reading