What Happened This Year 1981

People Who Died in 1981

David Lewis

Russian-Canadian lawyer and politician
Born
June 23rd, 1909 115 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1981 43 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1909, a prominent lawyer and politician in Canada. After immigrating from Russia, established a legal career before entering politics. Played a crucial role in transforming the New Democratic Party into a major political force in Canada. Served as the national leader of the NDP from 1971 to 1975, advocating for social justice and democratic socialism.

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Gene Green

American politician and attorney
Born
October 17th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1981 43 years ago — 33 years old

Born in 1947, a career in law led to a political career in the House of Representatives representing Texas's 29th congressional district. Focused on education, health care, and environmental issues during tenure. Served from 1993 until retirement in 2021, contributing to numerous legislative measures.

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George Jessel

Actor and producer of stage and screen
Born
April 3rd, 1898 126 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1981 43 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1898, contributed significantly to American entertainment as an actor, comedian, and producer. Gained prominence in vaudeville and later transitioned to Broadway and film. Served as a master of ceremonies for many prestigious events, including the Academy Awards. Pioneered a career in television as well and became a popular figure through various shows. His work in the theater and on screen helped to shape American comedy and performance styles.

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Herbert Müller

Swiss race car driver and Le Mans competitor
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1981 43 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent Swiss race car driver, achieved significant recognition in the world of motorsport throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Competed in numerous races, including the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. Demonstrated exceptional skill and speed on various tracks, gaining respect from peers and spectators alike. Transitioned from single-seaters to sports cars, establishing a strong presence in endurance racing. Contributed to the success of multiple teams in various racing championships until untimely death in 1981.

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Fredric Warburg

English author and publisher
Born
November 27th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1981 43 years ago — 82 years old

Engaged in the literary world as an author and publisher. Contributed to the recognition of various literary figures. Established a publishing house that focused on bringing significant works to the public. Published and promoted authors, enriching the literary landscape of the time.

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Ruby Payne-Scott

Australian physicist and astronomer
Born
May 28th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1981 43 years ago — 68 years old

Contributed significantly to radio astronomy in Australia. Worked at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), where research advanced understanding of solar emissions and their effects on the Earth. Played a key role in developing techniques for detecting solar radio bursts, which enhanced knowledge of solar activity. Provided foundational work in radio astronomy during a time when women faced significant barriers in the scientific community.

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Stefan Wyszyński

Polish cardinal and church leader
Born
August 3rd, 1901 123 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1981 43 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Poland, a cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church served as the Archbishop of Warsaw from 1948 to 1981. Played a significant role in the church's opposition to communism and the promotion of human rights in Poland. Champion of both religious and national identity during a time of political turmoil. Participated in the Second Vatican Council, which modernized the Catholic Church. Contributed to the establishment of a dialogue between the church and the communist authorities, facilitating better conditions for Catholics in Poland.

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Mary Lou Williams

American jazz pianist and composer
Born
May 8th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1981 43 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in jazz music, contributed significantly to the development of various jazz styles. Williams performed with notable musicians including Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. She composed a wide range of pieces, including sacred music and big band scores. Williams also played a pivotal role in mentoring younger musicians, helping to shape the next generation of jazz artists. Throughout her career, she worked to elevate the genre and bridge the gap between traditional jazz and its modern forms.

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Ziaur Rahman

Bangladeshi politician and president
Born
January 19th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1981 43 years ago — 45 years old

Served as a general in the Bangladesh Army and became the seventh President of Bangladesh. Assumed office in 1977 following a military coup. Played a key role in founding the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in 1978, which became a major political force in the country. Focused on economic development and stabilization during his presidency, implementing various policies to boost the economy. Assassinated in 1981, leaving a significant legacy in Bangladeshi politics.

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