What Happened This Year 1984

People Who Died in 1984

Mark W. Clark

American General and World War II leader
Born
May 1st, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1896, a prominent American general served in key military positions during World War II. Commanded the Fifth Army during the Italian Campaign, leading crucial operations against Axis forces. Later oversaw Allied operations in the Korean War as commander of United Nations forces. Played a pivotal role in major battles and contributed to the strategies that shaped military outcomes.

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Ken Carpenter

Discus thrower and Olympic coach
Born
April 19th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 71 years old

A discus thrower and coach, achieved success in athletics, specifically in throwing events. Competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, finishing in fifth place in discus throw. Later transitioned to coaching, significantly contributing to the careers of various athletes. Served as a coach for the United States national track and field team at numerous international competitions, including the Olympics.

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Junior J. Spurrier

American sergeant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
December 14th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 62 years old

Served as a sergeant in the United States Army during World War II. Displayed extraordinary bravery in combat while serving with the 27th Infantry Regiment. Was awarded the Medal of Honor for actions taken during the Battle of Buna-Gona in Papua New Guinea in 1942, where demonstrated exceptional leadership and valor in the face of enemy fire.

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Paul Rotha

Film director and producer
Born
June 3rd, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 77 years old

Born in England in 1907, a significant figure in the documentary film movement and recognized for contributions to British cinema. Focused on social realism, produced and directed various influential films throughout the mid-20th century. Credited with pioneering documentary techniques that combined political commentary with artistic expression. Worked extensively in television in later years, continuing to influence the medium. Authored several texts that explored the theory and practice of film.

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Randall Thompson

Composer and academic, wrote The Peaceable Kingdom
Born
April 21st, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1899, this American composer and academic contributed significantly to 20th-century music. The individual served as a professor at both Harvard University and the Curtis Institute of Music, impacting music education. The work 'The Peaceable Kingdom', composed in 1944, showcased a blend of choral and orchestral music, drawing inspiration from Edward Hicks' paintings. This piece became one of the most celebrated works, demonstrating a strong sense of Americana.

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William Empson

English poet and literary critic
Born
September 27th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 78 years old

Empson contributed significantly to literary criticism and poetry in the 20th century. Educated at Winchester College and Magdalene College, Cambridge, he became a prominent figure in literary discussions. His book 'Seven Types of Ambiguity', published in 1930, established a new framework for understanding poetry, focusing on the nuances of meaning in literary texts. Empson's poetry showcased his analytical skills, with works exploring themes of ambiguity and clarity. He taught at various institutions, including the University of Sheffield and the University of Tokyo, influencing generations of students and scholars.

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Manuel Alonso Areizaga

Spanish tennis player, Davis Cup champion
Born
November 12th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent tennis player from Spain, won the Davis Cup in 1920, contributing to the advancement of tennis in the country. Participated in various tournaments during the early 20th century, establishing a reputation within the tennis community. Played a pivotal role in representing Spain on the international stage in tennis during a formative period for the sport. His efforts helped lay the groundwork for future generations of Spanish tennis players.

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Al Dexter

Country singer-songwriter and musician
Born
May 4th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent country singer-songwriter and guitarist, played a significant role in the development of the honky-tonk style in country music. Achieved fame in the 1940s with hit songs that featured storytelling and heartfelt lyrics. Gained popularity through performances on radio and live venues, which contributed to the rise of country music in mainstream culture. Notably, wrote and performed the hit 'Pistol Packin' Mama', which became one of the defining songs of the genre and helped catapult his career.

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Hans Speidel

German general and military strategist
Born
October 28th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1897, a German general served in both World Wars. Initially fought for Germany in World War I, later joined the Wehrmacht during World War II. Held key positions, including the commander of the 7th Army in France. Participated in planning for Operation Overlord but resisted Hitler’s orders to defend against the Allies. Played a role in the July 20 plot to assassinate Hitler, which was a failed attempt, leading to his arrest and imprisonment. After the war, contributed to the rebuilding of the German military and NATO.

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