What Happened This Year 1982

People Who Died in 1982

Colin Chapman

British engineer and founder of Lotus Cars
Born
May 19th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1982 42 years ago — 54 years old

An English engineer and businessman founded Lotus Cars, a marque synonymous with innovative automotive design. Established in 1952, the company gained recognition for its lightweight sports cars and Formula One racing vehicles. The innovative use of materials and engineering principles revolutionized the racing industry. Chapman played a significant role in the development of the Lotus 49, which was the first car to use a rear-mounted engine, leading to numerous successes in Formula One during the 1960s. His contributions to automotive engineering left a lasting legacy, influencing car design well beyond his time.

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Homer S. Ferguson

American lawyer and politician
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1982 42 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a judge and U.S. Senator from Michigan. Held the position of senator from 1955 to 1979. Contributed to various legislations during tenure, focusing on civil rights and social welfare. Played a significant role in shaping policies affecting the state and nation. Engaged in legal practice before entering politics, gaining recognition for expertise in law.

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Hans-Ulrich Rudel

German colonel and notable pilot
Born
July 2nd, 1916 108 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1982 42 years ago — 66 years old

Served in the Luftwaffe during World War II, distinguished as a skilled dive bomber pilot. Participated in the Eastern Front and conducted numerous ground attack missions. Recognized for flying over 2,500 combat missions and reportedly destroying more tanks than any other pilot in history. Awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords, and Diamonds for exceptional bravery and leadership. Post-war, involved in various controversies regarding his views and affiliations.

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Arthur Rubinstein

Pianist and educator with Chopin recordings
Born
January 28th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1982 42 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent pianist and educator, this individual gained reputation for extraordinary performances and interpretations of classical music, particularly works by Frédéric Chopin. Active in the early to late 20th century, he toured extensively and gave numerous concerts worldwide, showcasing remarkable technique and emotional depth. In addition to performing, he contributed to music education through master classes and recordings, influencing generations of pianists. The individual received several prestigious awards throughout a lengthy career including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

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Abu Al-Asar Hafeez Jullundhri

Pakistani poet and composer of 'Qaumi Taranah'
Born
1900 125 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1982 42 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent poet and composer, contributed significantly to Urdu literature. Best recognized for composing 'Qaumi Taranah', the national anthem of Pakistan, which was adopted in 1954. Jullundhri's work in poetry celebrated the culture and identity of Pakistan, influencing generations. His poetry often reflected themes of patriotism and national pride.

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Jack Webb

Actor and creator of Dragnet
Born
April 2nd, 1920 104 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1982 42 years ago — 62 years old

An American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, this individual gained recognition for creating and starring in the television series 'Dragnet'. The show, which first aired in 1951, was one of the earliest police procedural dramas and significantly influenced the genre. The character portrayed was a no-nonsense detective, reflecting a realistic portrayal of law enforcement. In addition to 'Dragnet', this individual also produced and acted in other television series, further shaping the industry during the mid-20th century.

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Louis Aragon

French author and poet, Surrealism advocate
Born
October 3rd, 1897 127 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1982 42 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1897, this author and poet played a significant role in the Surrealist movement in literature. Involved with key figures like André Breton, he helped shape avant-garde poetic expression. His work often explored themes of love, politics, and social issues. In addition to poetry, he contributed to novels, essays, and criticism, with notable works such as 'Le Paysan de Paris' and 'Les Aventures de Télémaque.' His literary contributions spanned decades, leaving a lasting legacy in modern French literature. During the Second World War, he dedicated himself to the Resistance against Nazi occupation, which further defined his role as a public intellectual.

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Jack Swigert

Apollo 13 astronaut and pilot
Born
August 30th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1982 42 years ago — 51 years old

A pilot and astronaut, served as the Lunar Module Pilot for Apollo 13. Joined NASA in 1966, contributing to the Apollo program. After his time with NASA, engaged in various aviation and business roles. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Colorado’s 6th congressional district posthumously.

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Alberto Vargas

Painter and illustrator of pin-up art
Born
February 9th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1982 42 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Peru, this artist gained prominence in the United States as a painter and illustrator. Vargas became renowned for his pin-up art, which featured idealized depictions of women. His style combined techniques from classical painting with modern illustration. Working with various publications, he created iconic imagery that defined the pin-up genre, particularly during the mid-20th century. Throughout his career, Vargas contributed cover illustrations to magazines such as Esquire and Life, showcasing glamorous models and actresses. The artistry was marked by its sensuality and attention to detail, securing a place in American pop culture.

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