What Happened This Year 1984

People Who Died in 1984

Elizabeth Peer

American journalist and editor
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1984 40 years ago — 48 years old

Contributed significantly to American journalism throughout the 20th century. Worked as an editor for major publications and played a crucial role in shaping public discourse. Focused on social issues and political matters, bringing attention to various aspects of American life. Involved in reporting and editing pieces that highlighted notable events and cultural shifts in society.

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Vasilije Mokranjac

Composer and academic with many works
Born
September 11th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1984 40 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent Serbian composer and academic contributed to the development of Serbian music in the 20th century. Served as a professor at the Faculty of Music in Belgrade. Worked extensively in various genres, including orchestral, choral, and instrumental music. His compositions draw inspiration from folk melodies and traditions, fostering a unique synthesis that characterized his style. Received numerous accolades for contributions to music education and composition.

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D'Urville Martin

Actor and Director of 'Dolemite'
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1984 40 years ago — 45 years old

An actor and director contributed to film and television primarily in the 1970s. Directed the film 'Dolemite' in 1975, which became a cult classic. Appeared in notable films including 'The Big Bird Cage' and 'Black Gunn'. Alongside acting, involved in various projects that highlighted African American culture.

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Eric Morecambe

Comedian and actor in The Morecambe and Wise Show
Born
May 14th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1984 40 years ago — 58 years old

An English comedian and actor gained prominence through a variety partnership with Ernie Wise. The duo achieved immense popularity with their television program, The Morecambe and Wise Show, which ran for over a decade and became a staple of British entertainment. The show featured musical guests, comedy sketches, and famous Christmas specials. Morecambe's distinctive style and quick wit contributed to the duo's comedic success. Additionally, a successful solo career included appearances in films and stage productions. Despite health issues, continued to perform, leaving a lasting legacy in British comedy.

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Manuel Buendía

Journalist and political columnist
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1984 40 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent Mexican journalist, this individual contributed significantly to political discourse through journalism and columns. Worked for various newspapers and founded a news agency that provided critical analysis of national affairs. Focused on issues of corruption and governance, influencing public opinion and political transparency. Assassinated in 1984, which highlighted the dangers faced by journalists in Mexico.

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Helen Hardin

American painter, notable for her art
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1984 40 years ago — 41 years old

An American painter who contributed significantly to the field of Native American art. Grew up in New Mexico and was influenced by both her heritage and her experiences. Studied at the University of New Mexico. Gained recognition for merging traditional Navajo symbolism with contemporary themes. Exhibited work in various galleries and received accolades for artistic contributions. Passed away in 1984, leaving a legacy celebrated for its cultural depth.

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Enrico Berlinguer

Italian politician and Communist leader
Born
May 25th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1984 40 years ago — 62 years old

A significant figure in Italian politics, leading the Italian Communist Party from 1972 until his death in 1984. Advocated for a policy of Eurocommunism, promoting a democratic approach to socialism. Played a critical role in reshaping the party's identity during the Cold War, moving it towards a more moderate stance. Berlinguer emphasized civic engagement and democratic reform, seeking to broaden the party's appeal beyond traditional Marxist bases.

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António Variações

Portuguese musician and pop icon
Born
December 3rd, 1944 80 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1984 40 years ago — 39 years old

A musician and pop icon who blended traditional Portuguese music with contemporary pop and rock influences. Born in Fiscal, Portugal, in 1944, the career began in the 1970s, and a unique style that combined flamboyant fashion with eclectic sounds emerged. Achieved local success through vibrant performances and memorable songs, becoming a significant figure in Portuguese music history. His music explored themes of love, identity, and freedom, resonating deeply with audiences. Variações gained posthumous recognition for his groundbreaking contributions, which continue to influence artists today. The life was cut short in 1983 due to illness, but the legacy endures through the enduring popularity of the work.

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Meredith Willson

Playwright and composer of The Music Man
Born
May 18th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1984 40 years ago — 82 years old

A composer and playwright created the Broadway musical The Music Man, which premiered in 1957. The show followed a con man named Harold Hill who posed as a band leader in a small Iowa town. Willson also wrote the successful musical-notes for several other works, including The Unsinkable Molly Brown. His background in music, as a conductor and musician, greatly influenced his creative output and compositional style. Willson's contributions to the arts have been recognized through numerous awards including Tony Awards for his work. His legacy continues through the enduring popularity of The Music Man, which remains a staple in theater productions worldwide.

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