What Happened This Year 1980

People Who Died in 1980

Arthur Melvin Okun

Economist and author of Okun's Law
Born
November 28th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1980 44 years ago — 51 years old

An American economist and academic contributed significantly to economic theory and policy. Served as a member of President Lyndon B. Johnson's Council of Economic Advisers and was instrumental in shaping economic policies during the Great Society era. Developed Okun's Law, which quantifies the relationship between unemployment and economic growth. Authored important works, including 'Equality and Efficiency: The Big Tradeoff', which explored the trade-offs between egalitarian distribution and production efficiency.

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Óscar Romero

Salvadoran archbishop and martyr
Born
August 15th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1980 44 years ago — 62 years old

An archbishop in El Salvador, he became a vocal advocate for human rights and social justice during a period of political unrest. Romero utilized his platform to speak out against violence and oppression, particularly in relation to the Salvadoran civil conflict. His sermons often highlighted the plight of the poor and marginalized. On March 24, 1980, while celebrating Mass, he was assassinated, which drew international attention to the human rights abuses occurring in El Salvador. The legacy of his work continued to influence social justice movements even after his death.

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Milton H. Erickson

Psychiatrist and founder of hypnotherapy
Born
December 5th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1980 44 years ago — 78 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of psychiatry and psychology, focusing on hypnosis as a therapeutic tool. Developed a unique approach to therapy that emphasized the importance of the individual experience. Authored numerous works on the principles and practices of hypnotherapy that have been widely referenced and taught. Helped establish the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis.

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Walter Susskind

Conductor and educator with orchestras
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1980 44 years ago — 67 years old

Conducted major orchestras including the London Philharmonic Orchestra and the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. Played a significant role in music education and served as a professor at various institutions. Assisted in shaping the careers of many musicians through teaching and conducting. Renowned for interpretation of classical and contemporary compositions.

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Roland Barthes

French linguist and literary theorist
Born
November 12th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1980 44 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent figure in literary theory and semiotics, contributed significantly to the understanding of texts and interpretation. Explored various areas including structuralism, mythology, and narrative theory. Authored several influential works that shaped literary criticism, particularly focusing on the relation between language and meaning. His ideas in 'Mythologies' and 'S/Z' interrogated the complexities of representation in culture, critique, and sign systems, establishing a foundational perspective in post-structuralist thought.

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Dick Haymes

Argentinian-American actor and singer
Born
September 13th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1980 44 years ago — 61 years old

An Argentinian-American actor and singer achieved significant success in the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1940s and 1950s. Haymes gained a reputation as a prominent vocalist, known for performances in musicals and popular songs. He starred in several films such as 'Irish Eyes Are Smiling,' 'State Fair,' and 'The Desert Song.' His smooth baritone voice resonated with audiences and led to multiple hit records. Haymes also appeared on various radio shows, further establishing a presence in the entertainment industry. Later years included performances in nightclubs and a noteworthy stage career.

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Vladimír Holan

Czech poet and author of 'The Night'
Born
September 16th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1980 44 years ago — 74 years old

A significant figure in Czech literature, contributed to the poetic landscape with a unique style that often explored themes of existence and consciousness. Authored several notable collections including 'The Night' and 'The Lost', showcasing a profound ability to evoke complex emotions through vivid imagery. Worked in various forms including poetry, essays, and translations, influencing generations of writers. Associated with the Prague literary scene, left a lasting legacy that continues to be studied and celebrated.

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Jesse Owens

American sprinter and long jumper
Born
September 12th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1980 44 years ago — 66 years old

Competed in track and field, specializing in sprinting and long jump. Gained global notoriety at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where four gold medals were won in the 100 meters, 200 meters, long jump, and 4x100 meter relay. Defended titles at the 1935 Big Ten Conference, setting multiple world records in a single day. His athletic achievements challenged the prevailing notions of racial superiority during that era.

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Muhammad Baqir al-Sadr

Iraqi cleric and philosopher
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1980 44 years ago — 45 years old

Established significant Islamic philosophical frameworks and economic theories. Contributed extensively to Islamic scholarship and was pivotal in the intellectual revival of Shia Islam. Founded the Islamic Da'wah Party, promoting Islamic governance and activism. Influenced the Shia community during a time of political upheaval in Iraq.

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