What Happened This Year 1982

People Who Died in 1982

Leroy Grumman

Aerospace engineer and businessman
Born
January 4th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 87 years old

Co-founded Grumman Aeronautical Engineering Co., which became a major player in manufacturing military aircraft during World War II. Played a significant role in the development of the F-14 Tomcat, the A-6 Intruder, and the Lunar Module used in the Apollo missions. The company was pivotal in advancing aerospace technology and provided support to the U.S. Navy and NASA. Grumman's leadership helped establish the company as a key figure in the American aviation industry throughout the mid-20th century.

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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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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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Lawrence Wackett

Australian commander and engineer
Born
January 2nd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 86 years old

Served as an officer in the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II. Contributed to significant advancements in aviation technology. Played a key role in the development of the Australian Aircraft Company and led efforts to establish a national defense production capability. Participated in various engineering projects that enhanced military operations.

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Fred Williams

Australian painter of landscapes
Born
January 23rd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 55 years old

An Australian painter specialized in landscape artworks, primarily recognized for his innovative techniques and bright color palette. Williams engaged deeply with the Australian landscape, reflecting the natural environment through a modernist lens. His career spanned several decades, during which he produced numerous significant works that contributed to the understanding of Australian identity in art. Williams held solo exhibitions across Australia and received multiple awards for his contributions to the arts, solidifying his legacy as a key figure in contemporary Australian painting.

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Harry H. Corbett

Burmese-English actor in television
Born
February 28th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 57 years old

Initially worked in his family's business, acquiring skills that would serve well in future endeavors. Transitioned to acting in the 1950s, gaining prominence in British television. Played a significant role in the sitcom 'Steptoe and Son,' which aired from 1962 to 1974. The show became a landmark in British comedy, known for its portrayal of the relationship between a father and son in a rag-and-bone business. Continued to appear in films and television until the late 1980s, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry.

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Sobhuza II of Swaziland

King of Swaziland, reigned 82 years
Born
July 22nd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 83 years old

Ruled Swaziland from 1921 until death in 2001. Under leadership, the country underwent significant political changes, including navigating colonial rule and promoting traditional governance structures. Contributed to the preservation of Swazi culture and customs, while establishing a new constitution in 1968 that transitioned Swaziland to an independent nation. Active in regional politics, Sobhuza II maintained a balance between modern governance and traditional practices throughout his reign.

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