1980 1982

What Happened This Year 1981

All Events 110 Births 833 Deaths 264

People Who Died in 1981

Fidel LaBarba

Boxer and sportswriter, Olympic gold medalist

Born

September 29th, 1905 120 years ago

Died

1981 45 years ago — 76 years old

An accomplished boxer and sportswriter, achieved prominence in the boxing world during the 1920s and 1930s. Won the gold medal in the bantamweight division at the 1924 Paris Olympics. Had a successful professional boxing career, competing against top fighters of the era. Transitioned to sportswriting, where contributed to various publications, sharing insights on the sport and athletes. Authored books on boxing, further solidifying a legacy in both boxing and journalism.

David Wechsler

Psychologist and author of IQ tests

Born

January 12th, 1896 130 years ago

Died

1981 45 years ago — 85 years old

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.

Kit Pedler

Parapsychologist and author

Born

June 11th, 1927 98 years ago

Died

1981 45 years ago — 54 years old

A parapsychologist and author from England, contributed significantly to the field of psychical research. A co-creator and script editor of the cult television series 'Doctor Who,' which featured innovative science fiction narratives. Authored several books on the subjects of the supernatural and parapsychology, influencing popular culture and academic studies.