What Happened This Year 1982

People Who Died in 1982

Harry Jerome

Canadian sprinter Olympic medalist
Born
September 30th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 42 years old

A prominent Canadian sprinter, competed in the 1960s. Specialized in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Won a bronze medal at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics in the 100 meters. Set multiple Canadian records during his athletic career, contributing significantly to the sport in Canada. Suffered injuries but made a successful return, earning a gold medal at the 1966 Commonwealth Games in the 100 meters and a silver medal in the 200 meters. His performances helped to elevate Canadian athletics on the international stage.

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Betty Parsons

Artist and influential art dealer
Born
January 31st, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 82 years old

An American artist and art dealer, contributed significantly to the New York art scene. Established Betty Parsons Gallery in 1946, promoting numerous abstract expressionist artists. Emphasized the importance of showcasing emerging talents. Engaged in personal art practices, focusing primarily on abstraction throughout career. Played a role in the careers of various notable artists, including Mark Rothko and Jackson Pollock.

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Elio Petri

Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
January 29th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 53 years old

An influential director and screenwriter, contributed significantly to Italian cinema. Directed several acclaimed films that explored social and political themes. Notable works include 'Investigating the Criminal' and 'The 10th Victim,' both of which offered critical commentary on society. Developed a unique narrative style that combined elements of drama and satire. Collaborated with notable actors to create powerful performances that resonated with audiences.

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Sonny Stitt

Saxophonist and composer of bebop jazz
Born
February 2nd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 58 years old

An influential figure in the bebop jazz scene, this saxophonist contributed significantly to the genre through both performance and composition. Primarily played the alto and tenor saxophones, showcasing unique improvisational skills. Collaborated with numerous artists and bands, including work with jazz greats such as Dizzy Gillespie and Oscar Peterson. Recorded extensively, producing a rich catalog of music that reflects the evolution of jazz during the mid-20th century. Continued to perform into the 1980s, leaving a lasting legacy in jazz music.

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Bess Truman

First Lady of the United States
Born
February 13th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 97 years old

Served as First Lady from 1945 to 1953 during the presidency of husband Harry S. Truman. Actively engaged in social issues, focusing on veterans' welfare and supporting the arts. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum in Independence, Missouri. Maintained a keen interest in the role of the press and the importance of communication between the presidency and the public.

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Robert Havemann

Chemist and academic with environmental focus
Born
March 11th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 72 years old

A chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, specifically in organic chemistry and environmental science. Participated in research that addressed issues related to pollution and waste management. Engaged in the investigation of chemical processes and their implications for environmental sustainability. Involved in academic circles, promoting scientific education and research throughout the career, particularly in the context of socialist East Germany.

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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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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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