What Happened This Year 1982

People Who Died in 1982

Fazlur Rahman Khan

Engineer and architect of Willis Tower
Born
April 3rd, 1929 96 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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Alan Badel

English actor in film and theatre
Born
September 11th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 59 years old

An English actor gained recognition for performances in film and theatre. Worked extensively with the Royal Shakespeare Company and appeared in notable productions such as 'Hamlet' and 'King Lear'. Screen credits include significant roles in films like 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold' and 'The Go-Between'. Badel also contributed his voice to various BBC radio dramas, showcasing a versatile talent in both live performance and recorded media.

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Albert Facey

Australian soldier and author of 'A Fortunate Life'
Born
August 31st, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 88 years old

Served in the Australian Army during World War I. After the war, wrote an autobiography detailing personal experiences and hardships faced throughout life. The memoir, 'A Fortunate Life,' received acclaim for its candid storytelling, illustrating the life of a rural Australian. Spent years working in various jobs, including wheat harvesting and working in the railways. The book has been influential in Australian literature, contributing to the understanding of the history and culture of the time.

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Dorothy Round

Tennis player and Wimbledon champion
Born
July 13th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 74 years old

Achieved significant success in tennis during the 1930s. Won the Wimbledon Women's Singles title in 1934 and 1937. Competed in numerous international tournaments, securing her status as one of the top players of her time. Contributed to British tennis achievements, representing the country in various competitions.

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Jack Owens

American singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
October 17th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1912, this American musician gained recognition as a singer-songwriter and pianist, contributing significantly to the blues genre. Active during the mid-20th century, the music career included recording numerous songs that showcased a unique blend of traditional and modern influences within blues music. Emphasizing emotional storytelling through lyrics and melodies, this artist's music often reflected personal experiences and cultural narratives. They performed extensively, captivating audiences with powerful vocal performances and exceptional piano skills. Later years included collaborations with various musicians and participation in music festivals, solidifying their influence in the American music scene.

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Beverly Bayne

American actress in silent films
Born
November 11th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 88 years old

Active during the early 20th century, this actress gained prominence in the silent film era. Starred alongside notable actors like John Barrymore and appeared in significant works such as 'The Innocence of Lizette' and 'The Girl of the Golden West'. Transitioned into feature films after the advent of sound but found greater success in stage performances later in her career. Continued to contribute to the film industry and the theater until retirement.

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Ants Oras

Estonian-American author and academic
Born
December 8th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Estonia, an academic and author contributed significantly to the fields of literature and translation. Emigrated to the United States, where work involved teaching at several institutions. Gained recognition for translating prominent works from Estonian to English, fostering cross-cultural understanding. Published critical studies on various literary figures, expanding knowledge of Baltic literature.

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Wifredo Lam

Cuban-French painter and visual artist
Born
December 8th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Cuba to a Chinese father and a Spanish mother, a prominent painter blended surrealism and Afro-Cuban symbolism to create a unique artistic style. Studied in Madrid and later moved to Paris, where he became associated with influential artists like Pablo Picasso and André Breton. His work reflects themes of identity, culture, and history, particularly focusing on the African diaspora in the Caribbean. The painting 'The Jungle' is one of his most recognized works, showcasing bold colors and intricate forms that depict Haitian themes. Throughout his career, participated in various exhibitions and contributed to the Latin American avant-garde movement, establishing a significant legacy in modern art.

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Bill George

American football player and linebacker
Born
October 27th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 53 years old

This individual played as a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) from 1952 to 1965. Primarily associated with the Chicago Bears, contributed significantly to the team during his tenure. This player was instrumental in establishing the 4-3 defensive scheme that transformed the linebacker position. Received Pro Bowl selections recognizing exceptional performance during career.

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