What Happened This Year 1984

People Who Died in 1984

Stanley Milgram

American social psychologist, Milgram Experiment
Born
August 15th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1984 40 years ago — 51 years old

A social psychologist conducted groundbreaking research on obedience to authority. The Milgram Experiment, which began in 1961, demonstrated individuals' willingness to perform actions conflicting with their personal conscience when instructed by an authority figure. The study involved participants administering electric shocks to a subject in a controlled setting, revealing alarming insights into human behavior and conformity. This influential work raised ethical questions in psychology and highlighted the complexities of authority dynamics in social situations.

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Joan Lindsay

Australian author of 'Picnic at Hanging Rock'
Born
November 16th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1984 40 years ago — 88 years old

An Australian author and critic, a significant literary figure in the 20th century. Best recognized for the novel 'Picnic at Hanging Rock', published in 1967, which garnered critical acclaim and has been adapted into film and television. The narrative intertwines mystery and the experiences of a group of schoolgirls during a picnic that leads to unexplained disappearances. Worked as a critic and wrote various essays and short stories throughout her career, contributing to the Australian literary scene.

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Peter Lawford

English-American actor and producer
Born
September 7th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1984 40 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1923, this individual became an actor and producer in both England and America. He gained prominence during the 1940s and 1950s, appearing in multiple films and television shows. One notable association is with the Rat Pack, a group of entertainers that included Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. This actor starred in classic films such as 'Ocean's 11' and 'The Long, Hot Summer' and worked alongside leading actresses of the era. Throughout the career, involvement in both film and television played a significant role in shaping the entertainment landscape.

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Sam Peckinpah

Film director and screenwriter, 'The Wild Bunch'
Born
February 21st, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1984 40 years ago — 59 years old

Director and screenwriter contributed significantly to the Western genre with a distinctive style characterized by slow motion and violent imagery. Directed several influential films, including 'The Wild Bunch,' which garnered critical acclaim for its portrayal of anti-heroes and moral ambiguity. Also directed 'Straw Dogs,' notable for its controversial themes and intense violence. Began as a television director before moving to feature films, influencing generations of filmmakers with innovative techniques and storytelling.

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Leo Robin

American composer and songwriter
Born
April 6th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1984 40 years ago — 84 years old

A prolific American composer and songwriter, created enduring music throughout the 20th century. Collaborated extensively with other renowned writers, contributing to the golden age of film and Broadway musicals. Many songs have become standards and continue to be performed today. Received numerous accolades for contributions to the music industry.

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V. Shantaram

Indian actor and filmmaker
Born
November 18th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1990 35 years ago — 88 years old

An influential figure in Indian cinema, contributed as an actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. Developed a reputation for innovative storytelling and technical achievements in films. Established Rajkamal Kalamandir, a significant production house. Directed and acted in acclaimed films such as 'Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje', which highlighted traditional Indian music and dance. Acted in films across multiple languages, enhancing the industry landscape in India.

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Alice Neel

American painter of expressive portraits
Born
January 28th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 84 years old

An American painter, recognized for portraiture and significant contributions to 20th-century art. Early works reflected social realities, often capturing marginalized individuals. Developed a distinctive style featuring bold colors and emotional depth. Neel's art challenged traditional representations of femininity and identity. Received acclaim later in life, leading to retrospectives at major institutions. Work resides in prestigious collections, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art.

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Jorge Guillén

Spanish poet and influential literary critic
Born
January 18th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 91 years old

This individual played a significant role in the Generation of '27, shaping the landscape of Spanish literature. Long associated with the University of Málaga, contributions included critical essays and poetry collections. Major works include the acclaimed poetry collection 'Cántico', recognized for its exploration of beauty and existence. Engaged in literary criticism, this individual examined various literary movements and their cultural contexts. Received many accolades for contributions to literature throughout a prolific career.

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Tatyana Ehrenfest

Mathematician and theorist
Born
October 28th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 79 years old

Born in the Netherlands, significant contributions were made in the field of mathematics and physics. Focused on functional analysis and the theory of dynamical systems. Received recognition for work on statistical mechanics and contributions to the Ehrenfest equations. Worked collaboratively with prominent scientists and laid foundations for further research in mathematical physics.

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