What Happened This Year 1982

People Who Died in 1982

Joe Tex

Soul Singer-Songwriter for 'Hold What You Got'
Born
August 8th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 49 years old

An American soul singer-songwriter emerged in the 1960s with a distinctive style blending rhythm and blues with comedic storytelling. Achieved initial fame with the hit 'Hold What You Got' and followed with other successful tracks like 'I Gotcha' and 'The Love You Save'. His music often featured engaging lyrics and catchy rhythms, contributing to the soul genre flourishing during that period. Tex also integrated spoken word elements into performances, showcasing a unique approach that set him apart from contemporaries. Later in his career, he moved to gospel music, further displaying his versatility and depth as an artist.

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Karl Hein

German hammer thrower, Olympic medalist
Born
June 11th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 74 years old

Competed in the hammer throw, representing Germany in international athletics. Achieved significant success in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, securing a bronze medal. Dominated national competitions and set remarkable records in the sport during the 1930s. Contributed to the popularity and development of hammer throwing in Germany.

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Hermann Balck

German general and military strategist
Born
December 7th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 89 years old

Served in the German Army during World War I and the Wehrmacht during World War II. Achieved the rank of General and commanded various divisions and corps through significant battles. Played a crucial role in military operations on the Eastern Front, including the encirclement of Soviet forces during Operation Barbarossa. Exhibited notable leadership during the Battle of Kharkov in 1943, leading to a successful German counter-offensive.

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Riccardo Paletti

Formula One racing driver
Born
June 15th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 24 years old

Competed in Formula One from 1980 to 1982. Entered the sport with the Osella team, making his debut at the 1980 Monaco Grand Prix. Throughout his career, participated in several Grand Prix races, showcasing his skills in a highly competitive environment. Tragically, Paletti's career was cut short due to a fatal accident during the 1982 Canadian Grand Prix. His contributions to the sport are remembered by fans and racing enthusiasts.

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Sobhuza II of Swaziland

King of Swaziland, reigned 82 years
Born
July 22nd, 1899 126 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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Kristján Eldjárn

Icelandic educator and politician, President
Born
December 6th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 66 years old

An educator and politician served as the 3rd President of Iceland from 1968 to 1972. Held a significant role in the educational sector, promoting literacy and learning throughout the nation. Engaged in various public service initiatives and was instrumental in establishing institutions that advanced academic standards in Iceland. Focused on fostering a connection between Icelandic culture and the global community.

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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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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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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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