What Happened This Year 1982

People Who Died in 1982

Ed Gein

Infamous murderer and body snatcher
Born
August 27th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1984 40 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1906, he gained infamy for committing a series of murders in the 1950s in Wisconsin. His activities included grave robbing, where he exhumed bodies from local cemeteries and fashioned household items from human remains. Arrested in 1957, the investigation revealed a disturbing collection of body parts and artifacts. His case influenced popular culture, inspiring several fictional characters, including Norman Bates in 'Psycho' and Leatherface in 'The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.' He was found guilty but deemed legally insane, resulting in his commitment to a psychiatric hospital until his death in 1984.

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John Gardner

American novelist and essayist
Born
July 21st, 1933 91 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2007 17 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1933, this novelist and essayist contributed significantly to American literature. Notable works include the novels 'Grendel' and 'The Sunlight Dialogues', which explore themes of identity and existence. In addition to fiction, this individual also wrote essays and literary criticism, influencing both readers and writers with a distinctive voice. Teaching roles at various institutions shaped future generations of writers. Engaged in the literary community, this figure also founded a notable writers' conference.

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Takashi Shimura

Japanese actor in 'Seven Samurai'
Born
March 12th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent Japanese actor, widely recognized for roles in classic films. Worked with renowned director Akira Kurosawa on multiple projects. Starred as Kanbei Shimada in the 1954 film 'Seven Samurai', a pivotal work in cinema history. Also featured in other notable films such as 'Ikiru' and 'Rashomon'. His career spanned several decades, making significant contributions to Japanese film and theatre.

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Jackie Jensen

American baseball player and MVP
Born
March 9th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 55 years old

Started professional baseball career in the 1940s. Played as an outfielder for the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees. Achieved Most Valuable Player honors in 1958 while with the Red Sox. His playing style was characterized by a powerful batting performance and excellent fielding skills. After retiring from baseball, Jensen worked as a broadcaster and in various business ventures.

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Clyde McCullough

Baseball player and manager
Born
March 4th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 65 years old

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1940 to 1950, representing teams including the Chicago Cubs and Pittsburgh Pirates. Served as a coach for various teams post-retirement. Managed minor league teams and contributed to the development of players in the league. Gained recognition for his skills behind the plate and knowledge of the game.

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Theresa Hak Kyung Cha

Author and filmmaker; 'Dictee'
Born
March 4th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 31 years old

Born in South Korea and later moving to the United States, significant contributions were made to literature and film through unique forms. Authored 'Dictee,' a complex text blending memoir and history, which is considered an influential work in contemporary literature. Worked as a filmmaker, directing experimental films that explored themes of identity and language. Cha's work often intersected cultural and personal narratives, facilitating deeper discussions around immigration and diaspora experiences.

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Edward Rowe Snow

Historian and author of maritime history
Born
August 22nd, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1902, a historian and author focused on maritime history, particularly New England's coastal history. Snow wrote extensively about shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the development of maritime activities in the region. His writings helped to preserve the local maritime culture and its significance. Snow's contributions included a popular column in newspapers and several books that engaged a wide readership in maritime topics.

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Fazlur Rahman Khan

Engineer and architect of Willis Tower
Born
April 3rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 53 years old

An engineer and architect contributed significantly to modern skyscraper design. Co-designed the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center, which are iconic structures in Chicago. Played a key role in developing the tube structure concept, revolutionizing high-rise building methods. His innovative approach allowed for taller and more stable buildings, influencing architecture worldwide. Worked with a team at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, shaping the skyline of Chicago and advancing architectural engineering.

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Jimmy Wakely

Country music singer-songwriter and actor
Born
February 16th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1914, this individual achieved recognition as a country music singer-songwriter and actor. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, released numerous recordings that featured a blend of traditional country sounds and pop influences. Notably starred in a series of Western films, establishing a presence in both music and cinema. The career spanned several decades, during which a significant following emerged, particularly among country music enthusiasts. His work contributed to the popularization of country music during its formative years.

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