What Happened This Year 1981

People Who Died in 1981

Julio Libonatti

Professional footballer, World Cup player
Born
July 5th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Italy and later moving to Argentina, this footballer played as a forward. His career in club football included significant stints with Rosario Central and Torino. He gained recognition for his proficiency in scoring goals, which positioned him as one of the top forwards in his era. He was a crucial part of the Argentine national team during the 1930 FIFA World Cup, contributing to the team’s strong performance. His playing style was characterized by speed and technical skill, which made him a formidable opponent on the field.

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Martyn Lloyd-Jones

Welsh preacher and physician
Born
December 20th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 82 years old

Worked as a physician before becoming a prominent preacher in the 20th century. Served as the minister of Westminster Chapel in London for over 30 years, where delivered influential sermons and wrote extensively on theology. Contributed to the revival of Reformed theology and played a key role in the establishment of the Evangelical movement within the British context.

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Steve Currie

English bass player, famous for role in glam rock band
Born
May 20th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 34 years old

A prominent English bass player, contributed significantly to the glam rock genre in the 1970s. Achieved recognition as a member of the band T. Rex, known for its chart-topping hits. Played on some of the band’s most successful albums, enhancing their distinctive sound. Participated in live performances that showcased the band's dynamic stage presence, contributing to their popularity during the height of the glam rock era.

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Enrique Maier

Spanish tennis player and champion
Born
December 31st, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 71 years old

From 1930 to 1937, a prominent Spanish tennis player contributed significantly to the sport. Competed in the French Championships, achieving quarterfinals in both singles and mixed doubles. Secured the Spanish National Championships title multiple times, representing his country in international competitions. His proficiency on clay courts established a legacy in Spanish tennis history.

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Edith Head

American costume designer for films
Born
October 28th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent costume designer in Hollywood, this individual contributed to the visual style of numerous classic films from the 1930s to the 1970s. Winning eight Academy Awards for Costume Design, the work spanned a variety of genres and styles. Collaborations included notable films such as 'Sunset Boulevard,' 'A Place in the Sun,' and 'The Heiress.' The designer’s innovative designs established lasting trends in fashion and film costuming.

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Richard Boone

Actor in 'Have Gun – Will Travel'
Born
June 18th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 64 years old

An American actor, singer, and director. Achieved prominence through a strong television presence during the 1950s and 1960s. Starred as Paladin in the television series 'Have Gun – Will Travel', which aired from 1957 to 1963. Appeared in numerous films and television shows, showcasing acting versatility and depth. Also ventured into singing and directing, demonstrating a broad range of artistic expression throughout a longstanding career.

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Max Delbrück

German-American biophysicist, Nobel laureate
Born
September 4th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed to the field of molecular biology and genetics. Studied the genetics of bacteria and established key principles in the understanding of DNA. Worked at the California Institute of Technology and collaborated with notable scientists, shaping the foundations of modern biology. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1969 for work on the genetics of viruses.

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Rosa Ponselle

Operatic soprano, starred in 'La Traviata'
Born
January 22nd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 84 years old

Originated in Connecticut, showcased remarkable vocal talent in operatic performances. Gained prominence with a debut at the Metropolitan Opera in 1918, portraying the role of Leonora in 'Il Trovatore.' Excelled in a variety of operatic roles throughout a celebrated career, particularly recognized for performances in 'Carmen' and 'Aida.' Retired from the opera stage in the 1930s but maintained influence as a voice teacher and mentor for emerging singers. Left a lasting legacy in the realm of classical music.

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Edvard Kocbek

Slovenian poet and political activist
Born
September 27th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent figure in Slovenian literature and politics, this individual contributed significantly to the poetry scene and was actively involved in the resistance during World War II. His poetry reflected themes of social justice and the human condition, with works often blending personal experience and political commentary. After the war, engaged in the political landscape as a member of the National Assembly. His literary endeavors included various poetry collections, and he became a central figure in the Slovenian cultural milieu. Acknowledged for contributions to both literature and the political framework of Slovenia during a transformative period.

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