What Happened This Year 1981

People Who Died in 1981

Odd Hassel

Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate in chemistry
Born
May 17th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1981 43 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of molecular structures, using X-ray crystallography. Developed methods for investigating the symmetry and structure of molecular compounds. His work led to advancements in understanding chemical bonding and molecular conformation. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1979 for achievements in this area.

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Bob Marley

Jamaican reggae musician and songwriter
Born
February 6th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1981 43 years ago — 36 years old

A prominent figure in reggae music, this musician blended rock, rhythm and blues, and traditional Jamaican sounds. Achievements include founding the band The Wailers, which produced iconic albums such as "Catch a Fire" and "Exodus." The songs, often centered around themes of love, peace, and social justice, have left a lasting legacy. The musician's influence extended beyond music into various social and political arenas.

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Francis Hughes

Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
February 28th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1981 43 years ago — 25 years old

Born in 1956, a member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army, actively participated in the struggle for Northern Ireland's unification with the Republic of Ireland. Engaged in a hunger strike in 1981 in Maze Prison, demanding political status for IRA prisoners. The hunger strike lasted 59 days, ultimately leading to his death. His actions and sacrifice became emblematic of the wider conflict during this period.

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Benjamin Sheares

Singaporean physician and 2nd President
Born
August 12th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1981 43 years ago — 73 years old

A physician and politician, served as the 2nd President of Singapore from 1971 until 1981. Contributed to the development of the Singapore Medical Association and various healthcare initiatives. Advocated for the importance of improving medical education and public health services. Played a significant role in shaping healthcare policies during a key period of national development.

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Ernie Freeman

Pianist and bandleader, 'The Ernie Freeman Combo'
Born
August 16th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1981 43 years ago — 58 years old

An accomplished American pianist and bandleader, active primarily during the mid-20th century. Led 'The Ernie Freeman Combo', which gained significant popularity. Worked as a session musician and contributed to numerous recordings across genres, including rock and rhythm and blues. Collaborated with various artists, enhancing the sound of their music in the 1950s and 1960s. Freeman's style and arrangements were influential during this period.

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William Saroyan

American novelist and playwright
Born
August 31st, 1908 116 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1981 43 years ago — 72 years old

A significant writer during the 20th century, Saroyan authored numerous novels, plays, and short stories. He achieved recognition for works that depict the struggles and experiences of ordinary people. His most acclaimed works include the Pulitzer Prize-winning play 'The Time of Your Life' and the novel 'The Human Comedy'. Saroyan's writing often reflected his Armenian heritage and his experiences during the Great Depression. His unique narrative style combined realism with elements of joy and sorrow.

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Arthur O'Connell

American actor with Oscar nomination
Born
March 29th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1981 43 years ago — 73 years old

Acted in theater and film throughout a lengthy career, gaining notable recognition for performances in major productions. Featured in films such as 'Marty', which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, and made appearances in popular TV shows during the 1950s and 1960s, including 'The Twilight Zone'. Worked extensively in stage productions prior to focusing on film and television, contributing to the golden age of entertainment. His versatility allowed for a wide range of roles, from dramatic to comedic.

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Raymond McCreesh

Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
February 25th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1981 43 years ago — 24 years old

Born in 1957, a significant figure in the Irish Republican movement, engaged in political activism in Northern Ireland. Participated in the 1981 hunger strike at Long Kesh Prison, advocating for political status for Republican prisoners. Died after 61 days without food, becoming a symbol of the struggle for Irish nationalism and resistance against British rule.

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Patsy O'Hara

Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
July 11th, 1957 67 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1981 43 years ago — 23 years old

Engaged in activism for Irish republicanism, participated in the 1981 hunger strike in the Maze Prison. Advocated for political recognition for prisoners and rights for the Irish people. Died from starvation after 61 days on hunger strike, becoming a symbol of the struggle for Irish self-determination.

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