What Happened This Year 1981
People Who Died in 1981
Bronisław Malinowski
Competed in middle-distance running events, specializing in the 1500 meters. Achieved significant recognition during the 1970s, particularly at the European Athletics Championships. Represented Poland in multiple international competitions, showcasing talent and determination on the track.
Continue ReadingAbel Gance
An influential figure in early cinema, established a reputation with innovative techniques and narratives. Directed the seminal silent film 'Napoleon' in 1927, which showcased pioneering use of multi-screen and fast-motion effects, contributing to the development of the visual language of film. In addition to direction, worked as a writer and producer, impacting the French film industry during the silent and early sound eras. His works gained recognition for their artistic ambition and technical advancements.
Continue ReadingNoel Harford
Competed in cricket and basketball at a high level in New Zealand. Represented the New Zealand national cricket team in 1955, playing in three Test matches. Excelled in basketball, participating in the 1950 FIBA World Championship with the New Zealand national basketball team. Contributed to the development of both sports in New Zealand during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingFranjo Šeper
Born in 1905, an influential figure in the Catholic Church, leading the archdiocese of Zagreb from 1960 to 1980. Served as a cardinal and was appointed Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in 1971. Contributed to the church's positions during the Second Vatican Council and promoted Catholic doctrine. Focused on issues of moral theology and church governance.
Continue ReadingFrank Malina
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.
Continue ReadingLotte Reiniger
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.
Continue ReadingDavid Wechsler
Born in Romania and later emigrated to the United States, a psychologist and author developed a series of intelligence tests, significantly contributing to the field of psychometrics. The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) became widely used assessments of cognitive ability. These tests provided a better understanding of intellectual functioning and were instrumental in educational and clinical settings. The methodologies and theories proposed helped shape modern psychology and testing practices.
Continue ReadingJoseph Henry Woodger
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.
Continue ReadingNigel Patrick
An English actor and director, contributions spanned across stage and film. Gained recognition for performances in productions such as 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and 'The Way Ahead'. Directed various plays and worked in television. Achieved success in both dramatic and comedic roles, demonstrating versatility throughout a long career in the entertainment industry.
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