What Happened This Year 1981

People Who Died in 1981

Thérèse Casgrain

Canadian politician and suffragist
Born
July 10th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1896, a prominent figure in Canadian politics and women's rights. Active in the suffrage movement, worked tirelessly for women's inclusion in the political sphere. Served as a member of the Legislative Council of Quebec from 1936 to 1940, advocating for various social issues. Played a significant role in the founding of various organizations aimed at improving women's rights and was involved in the formation of the Quebec section of the League of Women Voters.

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Robert Russell Bennett

Composer and conductor of Broadway musicals
Born
June 15th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 87 years old

Bennett studied composition and graduated from the University of Kansas. He gained recognition for orchestrating many Broadway productions, particularly collaborations with renowned lyricists and composers. His work on shows such as 'Oklahoma!' and 'South Pacific' significantly contributed to the golden age of American musical theater. Bennett also composed original works and concert pieces, showcasing versatility in his musical expertise.

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Frank Malina

Engineer and painter, rocket pioneer
Born
October 2nd, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1912, a significant figure in engineering and painting. Involved in the development of rocket technology, contributed to the early stages of the U.S. space program. Later transitioned to art, focusing on kinetic and abstract pieces. Created a body of work that combines scientific and artistic exploration. Also served as a professor, imparting knowledge on both engineering and art.

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Mehmet Shehu

Albanian soldier, 22nd Prime Minister
Born
January 10th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the 22nd Prime Minister of Albania during a significant period in the country’s history. Played a crucial role in the post-World War II reconstruction and development of Albania. Participated in the Albanian Communist Party and contributed to the establishment of a socialist state. Held multiple government positions and was influential in political and military affairs until his resignation in 1981.

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Grunya Sukhareva

Psychiatrist specializing in child psychology
Born
November 11th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 90 years old

Focused on child and adolescent psychiatry, contributed significantly to the understanding of autism in children. Worked as a lecturer at several universities, influencing future generations of psychiatrists. Established research methodologies that emphasized the need for early diagnosis and intervention in child psychiatric disorders. Authored several seminal papers that advanced the field and provided clarity on diagnostic criteria.

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Lotte Reiniger

Animator and director of silhouette films
Born
June 2nd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 82 years old

Pioneered the technique of silhouette animation, starting in the 1910s. Created the first feature-length animated film, "The Adventures of Prince Achmed," released in 1926. Reiniger's innovative work involved intricate cut-out figures and detailed backgrounds, which she animated using a multi-plane camera. Throughout her career, she contributed to many short films and collaborated with other filmmakers to produce various animated works for both children and adults.

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Eric Hollies

English cricketer, renowned leg spinner
Born
June 5th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 69 years old

An English cricketer played primarily as a leg spinner. Played for Warwickshire from 1930 to 1954, contributing significantly to the team's successes during this period. Notably, delivered a remarkable performance in the 1947 season, taking 105 wickets in the County Championship. Represented England in Test matches, making a significant impact in the 1948 series against Australia. His career spanned the golden age of cricket, showcasing skill and precision in bowling. After retiring, transitioned to coaching, influencing future generations of cricketers.

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Cozy Cole

American drummer and bandleader
Born
October 17th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1909, a prominent American drummer, significantly contributed to jazz and swing music. Gained recognition for leading his own band and performed with notable jazz musicians. Enjoyed a successful career during the big band era and beyond. Achieved considerable acclaim for the hit single 'Topsy', which became a jazz standard. His drumming style influenced generations of percussionists. Regularly appeared on various television shows, further solidifying a legacy in both live performance and recorded music.

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Joseph Henry Woodger

Biologist, Philosopher, and Academic
Born
May 2nd, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 87 years old

Contributed to the fields of biology and philosophy, particularly in the philosophy of biology. Developed significant ideas in the formulation of biological principles. Served as a professor and published numerous works, emphasizing the importance of a theoretical foundation in biological sciences. Played a role in the development of the philosophy of science.

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