What Happened This Year 1983

People Who Died in 1983

Alice White

American actress in silent films
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1983 42 years ago — 79 years old

Active during the silent film era, this actress gained recognition for work in romantic and comedic roles. Appeared in over 70 films from the 1920s to the early 1930s, transitioning to sound films but eventually moving into supporting roles. Worked with major studios such as Warner Bros and Columbia Pictures. Continued to perform on stage and in television into the 1950s, showcasing versatility beyond the silver screen.

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Adrian Boult

Conductor of the London Philharmonic
Born
April 8th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1983 42 years ago — 93 years old

An English conductor led prominent orchestras throughout the 20th century, including the London Philharmonic Orchestra and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Significant contributions to the interpretation of British music were made, particularly works by composers such as Edward Elgar and Ralph Vaughan Williams. Boult's career spanned several decades during which he shaped the performance and appreciation of classical music in the UK. His direction of orchestras led to acclaimed performances and recordings, enhancing public interest in orchestral music.

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Romain Maes

Belgian cyclist, Tour de France winner
Born
August 18th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1983 42 years ago — 69 years old

A Belgian cyclist achieved notable success in the 1930s. Won the prestigious Tour de France in 1935, marking a significant moment in his cycling career. Participated in various other races and earned recognition for competitive performances. Developed a reputation as a formidable rider in the cycling community, particularly during the era of classic races in Europe. Continued to influence the sport until death in 1983.

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Herbert Howells

English organist and composer
Born
October 17th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1983 42 years ago — 90 years old

An English organist and composer specialized in choral music and organ compositions. Served as a Professor of Music at the University of Bristol and worked as an organist at various churches, including St John's College, Cambridge. Composed significant works in the English choral tradition, with a focus on sacred music. Contributed to the development of English music in the 20th century through both performance and composition.

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Tennessee Williams

American playwright and poet
Born
March 26th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1983 42 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent playwright and poet, contributions to American theater included works that explored complex characters and human emotions. His plays, characterized by lyrical language and deep psychological insight, often depicted the struggles of individuals against societal constraints. Key works include 'A Streetcar Named Desire', which highlights the fragility of human relationships, and 'The Glass Menagerie', a memory play reflecting personal and familial conflicts. Received two Pulitzer Prizes for Drama, cementing a legacy as one of the twentieth century's most significant writers.

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Arthur Koestler

Journalist and author of Darkness at Noon
Born
September 5th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1983 42 years ago — 77 years old

Born in Hungary and later becoming a British citizen, this individual was a prominent journalist and author. He gained recognition for works that explored themes of totalitarianism and individualism. The novel 'Darkness at Noon' remains one of his most significant contributions, reflecting the struggles of the individual against oppressive regimes. His experiences in various political movements, including early Communist involvement and later disillusionment, informed much of his writing. In addition to fiction, the individual produced many essays and non-fiction works addressing political and philosophical topics throughout a prolific career.

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Hergé

Comic artist of The Adventures of Tintin
Born
May 22nd, 1907 117 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1983 42 years ago — 75 years old

Belgian author and illustrator created the comic series The Adventures of Tintin, which first appeared in 1929. The series follows the adventures of a young reporter named Tintin, his dog Snowy, and a variety of supporting characters. Hergé developed a unique drawing style characterized by clear lines and meticulous attention to detail. The comics gained international popularity and were translated into numerous languages. Hergé's work significantly influenced the comic book industry and introduced a distinctive narrative style.

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Igor Markevitch

Conductor and composer, conducted Mahler
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1983 42 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent conductor and composer, played a crucial role in the classical music scene during the 20th century. Markevitch studied under several influential teachers and became notable for his interpretations of the works of Mahler and Stravinsky. His conducting career included positions with prestigious orchestras across Europe and the United States. Markevitch also composed a variety of orchestral and chamber works, reflecting his deep understanding of musical form and structure. He established a reputation as a skilled conductor who could inspire orchestras to achieve their best performances.

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Alan Lennox-Boyd

English politician and lieutenant
Born
November 18th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1983 42 years ago — 78 years old

Served as a British politician, holding positions such as Minister of State for Colonial Affairs. Played a significant role in the decolonization process of Africa and the Caribbean during the 1950s and 1960s. Actively engaged in policy matters concerning colonial territories, influencing Britain's approach to post-war governance and independence for several nations.

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