What Happened This Year 1980

People Who Died in 1980

Isabel Briggs Myers

Psychologist and co-creator of MBTI
Born
October 18th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 83 years old

A theorist and author, developed the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) alongside her mother, Katharine Cook Briggs. This personality assessment tool gained widespread use in various fields such as psychology, education, and workplace settings. Contributed significantly to the understanding of personality types and individual differences. Worked to apply psychological principles to real-world situations through MBTI, influencing career counseling and personal development. Engaged in educational and organizational contexts to encourage understanding of personality dynamics.

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Bo Rein

American football player and coach
Born
July 20th, 1945 79 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.

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R. C. Majumdar

Indian historian and author
Born
December 4th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 96 years old

An Indian historian focused on ancient and medieval Indian history. Contributed significantly to the field of historiography and was associated with several educational institutions. Authored numerous works, including a notable multi-volume history of India, which detailed the political, social, and cultural evolution of the region over centuries. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of historical research as a disciplined field in India and influenced future generations of historians.

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Pyotr Masherov

Leader of Soviet Belarus
Born
February 26th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 62 years old

Held leadership positions in Soviet Belarus starting in the 1960s. Served as the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Belarus and was a significant figure in the Belarusian government. Contributed to the region's industrial and agricultural development during his tenure. Was a member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party. Died in a car accident in 1976 during a period of political and economic change.

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Marino Marini

Italian sculptor and academic
Born
February 27th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1901, this artist was pivotal in the modern art movement, creating significant works that explored themes of human form and equestrian subjects. Received formal training at the Fine Arts Academy in Florence and became a prominent figure in Italian sculpture. Worked extensively in bronze and is recognized for a style that combines both classical influences and modernist tendencies. Held teaching positions in art academies and contributed to the development of contemporary artistic practices. Exhibited works in major museums across Europe and the United States, significantly impacting the art scene.

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Bette Nesmith Graham

Inventor of Liquid Paper correction fluid
Born
March 23rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 56 years old

An American inventor developed a correction fluid called Liquid Paper in the 1950s. Initially created to assist in correcting typing errors during her time as a secretary, the product gained significant popularity in office environments. Founded a company to market Liquid Paper and successfully expanded distribution. The product became a staple for typists and writers, leading to widespread use in schools and businesses. The success of Liquid Paper contributed to her financial independence and established a legacy in office supplies.

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Jessica Dragonette

American singer with radio and opera fame
Born
February 14th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1900, this American singer gained prominence in the early and mid-20th century, particularly through radio performances and operatic roles. She became a familiar voice in American households during the Golden Age of Radio, especially noted for her operatic renditions and popular music performances. Her unique vocal abilities allowed her to perform a variety of music genres, impressing audiences across the nation. Dragonette was also associated with various musical productions and concert tours, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of her time.

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Alice Roosevelt Longworth

American author and social figure
Born
February 12th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1884, a prominent author and socialite, played a significant role in early 20th-century American politics as the daughter of President Theodore Roosevelt. A writer, she contributed to various publications and authored several books, including an autobiography that highlighted her experiences and views on American society. Active in Washington D.C. social circles, hosted influential political figures and maintained a high-profile lifestyle. Longworth's wit and intelligence were well-acknowledged, making her a notable figure in literary and social realms of her time.

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Tim Hardin

Folk singer-songwriter and musician
Born
December 23rd, 1941 83 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 39 years old

An influential folk singer-songwriter and musician emerged in the 1960s, contributing to the genre with a distinctive voice and poignant lyrics. Hardin's songwriting gained attention and was covered by various artists, showcasing the emotional depth of his work. Hardin recorded several albums, with significant acclaim for his self-titled debut. His most notable songs include 'If I Were a Carpenter' and 'Reason to Believe', which became popular through covers by other artists. Struggling with personal demons, Hardin's career was marked by periods of instability but left a lasting imprint on the folk music scene.

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