What Happened This Year 1981

People Who Died in 1981

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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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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Vicente Ferreira Pastinha

Brazilian martial artist, founder of Capoeira
Born
April 5th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1889, this Brazilian martial artist played a pivotal role in popularizing the Afro-Brazilian martial art form known as Capoeira. He founded the first Capoeira school in Salvador, Bahia, which became a vital center for teaching and preserving the traditions of Capoeira. The transition from being a clandestine practice connected to the Afro-Brazilian culture to gaining recognition in Brazilian society occurred largely due to the efforts of this martial artist. Emphasizing the importance of teaching Capoeira in its original form, he dedicated life to promoting its cultural significance.

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