What Happened This Year 1984

People Who Died in 1984

Leonard Rose

Cellist and educator, taught at Juilliard
Born
July 27th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1918, this American cellist gained prominence in the classical music world. After studying at the Juilliard School, performed with major orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic and the Philadelphia Orchestra. Rose also served as a professor at Juilliard, influencing many future musicians through his teaching. A prominent soloist, he performed extensively both in the United States and internationally, showcasing a wide repertoire. His contributions to music education left a lasting legacy.

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El Santo

Mexican Luchador and film actor
Born
September 23rd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 67 years old

A professional wrestler and actor from Mexico, gained popularity in the 1940s. Became a legendary figure in lucha libre, known for wearing a silver mask. Starred in numerous films that combined wrestling with adventure and fantasy themes. Helped bring lucha libre into the mainstream, becoming a cultural icon. Continued to perform until death in 1984.

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Carmen Dragon

Conductor and Composer, Hollywood Bowl
Born
July 28th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 70 years old

Acclaimed orchestrator and conductor, contributed extensively to film music and classical compositions. Led the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra for many years, enhancing the cultural landscape of Los Angeles. Worked on notable film scores, including 'The Lost Weekend' and 'The Caine Mutiny'. Also engaged in radio, conducting the 'Carmen Dragon Show', which was a popular program featuring orchestral music during its run.

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Joe L. Evins

American lawyer and politician
Born
October 24th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a United States Congressman from Tennessee from 1953 to 1973. Advocated for various legislative measures during tenure. Involved in issues related to civil rights and education. Associated with the Democratic Party, contributed to the development of federal policies impacting the region.

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Brooks Atkinson

Theatre critic and columnist
Born
November 28th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent American theatre critic, served as the chief drama critic for The New York Times from 1925 to 1960. Played a crucial role in shaping public perception of Broadway theatre through insightful reviews. Contributed to arts criticism and literature with various essays and articles, influencing trends in theatrical productions. Authored 'Broadway' in 1949, detailing the evolution of American theatre. Engaged with numerous playwrights and actors, fostering dialogue about the theatrical arts.

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Alexander Trocchi

Scottish author and poet, wrote Cain's Book
Born
July 30th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 59 years old

An influential figure in Scottish literature, this author and poet contributed to the modernist literary movement. Work included novels, essays, and poetry, exploring existential themes and the human experience. 'Cain's Book', published in 1960, is considered a pivotal work, reflecting the life of a writer grappling with addiction and personal demons. His writings often challenged societal norms and depicted the struggles of urban life. He collaborated with various literary movements, influencing a generation of writers.

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J. Lister Hill

American politician and senator
Born
December 29th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 90 years old

Served as a United States senator from Alabama from 1938 to 1969. Played a significant role in the establishment of various health and education initiatives during tenure. Contributed to the creation of the National Health Service and worked on civil rights legislation. Advocated for federal funding for education and healthcare.

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Chuck Cooper

Basketball player, first African American in NBA
Born
September 29th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 58 years old

A basketball player achieved prominence in the 1950s. Played college basketball at Duquesne University and developed into a talented forward. In 1950, became the first African American player selected in the NBA Draft, picked by the Boston Celtics. Played a key role in professional basketball, contributing to the early integration of the league. After his time with the Celtics, played for the Fort Wayne Pistons and the New York Knicks. Retired from professional basketball in 1955 and later had a career as a coach and community leader. Inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of contributions to the sport and his trailblazing role.

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Henri Fabre

Pioneer of seaplane aviation
Born
November 29th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 102 years old

Significant contributions to aviation history stemmed from the development and successful flight of the first heavier-than-air seaplane. In 1910, achieved the first flight in a seaplane, named the 'Fabre Hydravion', over the Etang de Berre in France. This event marked a crucial milestone for future developments in aviation and marine flight technology. Established a foundational role in the evolution of seaplanes, influencing subsequent designs and innovations in the field of aeronautics.

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