What Happened This Year 1983

People Who Died in 1983

Carolyn Jones

American actress in The Addams Family
Born
April 28th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1983 41 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1930, an American actress specialized in television and film, with a career that spanned multiple decades. Gained prominence for portraying Morticia Addams in the television series 'The Addams Family'. Appeared in numerous films and shows, showcasing a unique style and character work. Established a reputation for her roles in genre films and became a recognizable figure in American pop culture. Continued to work in the industry until her health declined, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances.

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Judy Canova

Actress and comedian in film and radio
Born
November 20th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1983 41 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent actress and comedian emerged in the entertainment industry during the 1930s. Gained popularity through performances in films, radio, and television. Achieved significant recognition for work on 'The Judy Canova Show', a successful radio program that highlighted comedic talents. Also appeared in films, including 'My Little Chickadee' alongside W.C. Fields and Mae West. Transitioned to television, where continued to entertain audiences with guest appearances and her own series. Contributed to the entertainment landscape throughout her career, showcasing versatility across various media.

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Joan Robinson

Economist and influential author
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1983 41 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of economics, particularly in the development of Keynesian theories. Served as a professor at Cambridge University, shaping economic thought through teaching and publications. Authored several important works including 'The Economics of Imperfect Competition', impacting the understanding of market structures. Engaged with various economic debates of her time, influencing both academic and practical approaches to economics.

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Klaus Nomi

Singer and performer of avant-garde opera
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1983 41 years ago — 39 years old

A German singer-songwriter and actor gained recognition for a unique blend of opera and new wave music. Nomi's theatrical performances captivated audiences with extravagant costumes and a distinctive vocal style that fused classical music with pop elements. He developed a distinctive aesthetic that combined elements of science fiction and camp, appealing to the avant-garde scene in New York City during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Notable works include the self-titled debut album released in 1981 and electric performances at venues like Club 57. Nomi's work transcended traditional boundaries, influencing later generations of artists, especially in the realms of performance art and music.

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Theodor Burchardi

German admiral and naval leader
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1983 41 years ago — 91 years old

Achieved the rank of admiral in the German Navy. Played a significant role in naval operations during World War II. Contributed to strategic naval planning and development in post-war Germany. Actively engaged in military reforms and training programs following the war, influencing the future of the naval forces.

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Ira Gershwin

American songwriter with classic lyrics
Born
December 6th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1983 41 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent American songwriter, contributed lyrics to many celebrated songs and musicals. Collaborated extensively with composer George Gershwin, creating lasting works in American music. Wrote lyrics for iconic songs such as 'Summertime', 'I Got Rhythm', and 'Someone to Watch Over Me'. Lyricist for the Broadway musicals 'Porgy and Bess' and 'Lady, Be Good!', which showcased the Gershwin brothers' talents. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970, further solidifying a legacy in American songwriting.

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Nikolaus Pevsner

Art historian and scholar of architecture
Born
January 30th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1983 41 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent art historian and architectural scholar, contributions to the understanding of English architecture were significant. Authored 'The Buildings of England', a major series documenting architectural history across England. Played a critical role in the establishment of the Arts Council of Great Britain. Teaching positions included roles at the University of Birmingham and Birkbeck College, influencing generations of students in the field of architectural history.

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Benigno Aquino Jr.

Filipino politician and activist
Born
November 27th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1983 41 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent figure in Philippine politics, he emerged as a leading opposition voice during the regime of Ferdinand Marcos. His political career began in the 1950s, serving as a senator and becoming known for his vocal criticism of government corruption and authoritarianism. Aquino was imprisoned for nearly four years following the declaration of martial law in 1972. After his release, he went into exile in the United States. He returned to the Philippines in 1983, where he was assassinated at the Manila International Airport, an event that galvanized the opposition against Marcos. His death triggered a series of events leading to the People Power Revolution in 1986, which ultimately ousted Marcos from power.

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Kalevi Kotkas

High jumper and discus thrower
Born
August 10th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1983 41 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1913, competed in athletics, specializing in high jump and discus throw. Represented Estonia and Finland in several international competitions. Achieved significant success in the 1930s and 1940s, participating in European championships. Notable for strong performances in both disciplines, contributing to Estonia's athletic prominence during that era.

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