What Happened This Year 1981

People Who Died in 1981

Ken Barrington

English cricketer, Test match batsman
Born
November 24th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 51 years old

Played first-class cricket for Surrey and represented England in Test matches. Made contributions as a prominent batsman during the 1950s and 1960s. Accumulated over 6,000 runs in Test cricket and achieved several centuries. Known for a solid technique and ability to play against strong bowling attacks. Played a pivotal role in England's series against Australia in the Ashes.

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Blanche Noyes

Aviator and Bendix Trophy winner
Born
June 23rd, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 81 years old

An American aviator competed in the Bendix Trophy Race, a prominent transcontinental air race. In 1936, secured victory in this race, contributing to the recognition of women in aviation. Overcame barriers in a male-dominated field, showcasing skill and determination in piloting.

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Francis Hunter

American tennis player, Wimbledon champion
Born
June 28th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 87 years old

Competed in professional tennis during the early 20th century. Achieved significant success in both singles and doubles events. Won the men's doubles title at Wimbledon in 1920 alongside partner Vincent Richards. Also reached the semifinals in singles at the same tournament in 1922. Contributed to the development of tennis in the United States during its formative years.

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Günther Treptow

German tenor with opera performances
Born
October 22nd, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1907, a German tenor gained recognition through performances in operas and concerts across Europe. Trained in voice, this artist made significant contributions to the operatic genre, particularly noted for roles in classic operas. Regularly performed in prestigious venues, showcasing a powerful voice and emotive style. Established a reputation as a respected performer in the 20th century, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of opera.

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Lucile Godbold

American athlete and Olympic competitor
Born
May 31st, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 81 years old

Godbold participated in the 1920 Summer Olympics, competing in the women's 800 meters. She had a significant career in middle-distance running, representing the United States in national and international events. Her athletic prowess earned her recognition in the track and field community during the early 20th century. In addition to her Olympic participation, Godbold was an active competitor in various championships, contributing to the growth of women's athletics in the United States.

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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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Edwin Albert Link

Flight simulator inventor and entrepreneur
Born
July 26th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 77 years old

An American industrialist and entrepreneur, significantly contributed to aviation with the invention of the flight simulator. Developed the Link Trainer in the 1930s, revolutionizing pilot training. The flight simulator became a standard for training military pilots during World War II and beyond, enhancing flight safety and preparedness. Established the Link Aviation Devices, which produced various training devices used in civil and military aviation.

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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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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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