What Happened This Year 1981

People Who Died in 1981

Charles Fraser

Rugby league player and coach
Born
January 11th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 88 years old

Played rugby league professionally and transitioned to coaching after retirement. Had a significant career in the sport, contributing to the development of teams and players. Served in various coaching roles throughout the years and was involved in championship competitions. Made contributions to the rugby league's growth within Australia.

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Stanisław Mazur

Mathematician and theorist
Born
January 1st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1905, a mathematician specialized in functional analysis and topology. Contributed to the field through research and teaching, influencing future generations in mathematics. Published numerous papers and worked on a variety of mathematical problems. Held academic positions at several institutions and collaborated with notable mathematicians during his career.

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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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Steve Currie

English bass player, famous for role in glam rock band
Born
May 20th, 1947 78 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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Giuseppe Tosi

Italian discus thrower, Olympics medalist
Born
May 25th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 65 years old

Famed discus thrower achieved significant success in athletics during the mid-20th century. Competed at the 1948 London Olympics, earning a bronze medal in the discus event. Participated in numerous national and international competitions, establishing a strong reputation within the sport. Contributed to Italy's prominence in track and field during this era.

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Matthew Beard

Child actor best known for 'Our Gang'
Born
January 1st, 1925 100 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 56 years old

Started acting as a child during the 1930s. Became a prominent figure in the 'Our Gang' series, which captured the adventures of a group of children. The series gained significant popularity during its run, contributing to the evolution of comedy in film. Transitioned from child roles to adult projects in later years but remained primarily associated with early film success.

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Jacob H. Gilbert

American lawyer and politician
Born
June 17th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 61 years old

Practiced law in the United States for several decades and served in various political positions. Held significant roles within local government and contributed to legislative efforts in his state. Involved in multiple legal and political organizations, influencing both legal practices and policies. Advocated for issues pertinent to his constituents and engaged in community service throughout his career.

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Marcel Cadieux

Canadian diplomat and civil servant
Born
June 17th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 66 years old

A Canadian civil servant and diplomat served as Ambassador to the United States from 1970 to 1975. Held various roles within the Canadian government, contributing to foreign relations and diplomacy during a pivotal time in Canada-U.S. relations. Contributed to discussions on trade, defense, and environmental policies between the two countries, fostering a deeper understanding and collaboration. Engaged in diplomacy during a period marked by significant events, including the Vietnam War and energy crises. His expertise in international relations shaped diplomatic strategies that emphasized mutual interests and cooperation.

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Dimitrios Hatzis

Greek novelist and journalist
Born
November 13th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 68 years old

A noted Greek novelist and journalist, contributed significantly to Greek literature during the 20th century. Hatzis wrote various novels exploring themes of identity, culture, and social issues in Greece. His works often reflected the historical and political context of the time. Hatzis also served as a journalist, providing commentary and analysis on important events in Greece, impacting the literary and journalistic landscape.

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