What Happened This Year 1981

People Who Died in 1981

Michael Maltese

Screenwriter for animated classics
Born
February 6th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 73 years old

An American screenwriter and composer, contributions focused on animated films during the Golden Age of Animation. Collaborated with Warner Bros. on several iconic cartoons featuring characters such as Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck. Wrote screenplays for classic works like 'What's Up Doc?' and 'Duck Dodgers in the 24th Century.' Also composed music for various animated shorts and features throughout his career.

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David Cecil

English hurdler and politician
Born
February 9th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1905, a prominent English hurdler competed in the 400 meters hurdles in the 1930s. Transitioned into a political career, serving as a Conservative member in the House of Lords. Held the title of 6th Marquess of Exeter following the death of his father in 1947. Engaged in various political discussions and debates, particularly on matters concerning the welfare of his constituents.

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Irmgard Bartenieff

Pioneer of dance therapy techniques
Born
February 24th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 81 years old

A German-American dancer and physical therapist developed distinctive methods integrating dance with therapeutic practices. Established a comprehensive approach to movement analysis, emphasizing the connection between psychological and physical health. Contributed significantly to the field of dance therapy and influenced many practitioners with innovative ideas. Actively engaged in teaching and training future therapists, facilitating workshops and lectures throughout the United States and Europe.

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Paul Green

Playwright and academic, won Pulitzer Prize
Born
March 17th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1894, a playwright and academic made significant contributions to American theater. His works often explored social issues and Southern culture. His play 'In Abraham's Bosom' won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1927. The playwright also served as a professor, influencing future generations of writers and theater practitioners. In addition to plays, he wrote screenplays and essays.

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Ketti Frings

American author and playwright
Born
February 28th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 66 years old

An influential author and playwright, contributed significantly to American literature through plays and novels. Won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1956 for the play 'The Strong Are Lonely'. Other works include 'The Women's Room' and adaptations for television and film.

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Fredric Wertham

Psychologist and comic book critic
Born
March 20th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 86 years old

A German-American psychologist and author, this individual played a significant role in the early discourse around comic books and their effects on children. The publication of a book in 1954, titled 'Seduction of the Innocent,' argued that comic books were contributing to juvenile delinquency and led to widespread public concern. This prompted congressional hearings on the comic book industry. The work influenced the eventual establishment of a self-regulatory body for comic books, the Comics Code Authority, which limited content in comic books for several decades. Accusations against comic books sparked a larger cultural conversation about media and its impact on youth.

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Robert Emmett Keane

American actor in silent films
Born
March 4th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 98 years old

Active during the silent film era, this actor appeared in numerous films between the 1910s and 1920s. Significant involvement in the early development of the American film industry occurred. Notable roles included appearances in productions such as 'The Little Princess' and 'The Call of the Wild'. The transition to talkies marked a decline in film roles but established a lasting presence in film history.

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Ana María O'Neill

Puerto Rican scholar and activist
Born
March 7th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Puerto Rico, a scholar and activist dedicated efforts to social justice and education. Contributed significantly to the advancement of women's rights and the rights of the marginalized in Puerto Rico. Engaged in various community organizations and initiatives aimed at promoting literacy and empowerment. Worked closely with local and national groups to advocate for political and social reforms. Her scholarly writings highlighted issues of inequality and access to education for all.

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Zarah Leander

Swedish actress and singer
Born
March 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1907, this Swedish actress and singer gained prominence in the 1930s and 1940s, particularly in Germany. She starred in films such as 'Die große Liebe' and 'To Be or Not to Be', showcasing a powerful singing voice and dynamic screen presence. Her career flourished during a time when she became a popular figure in Nazi Germany, leading to debates regarding her legacy. Alongside her film work, she also enjoyed a successful career in music, recording numerous songs that became hits, further solidifying her status in the entertainment industry. Following World War II, she returned to Sweden where she continued to perform.

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