What Happened This Year 1987

People Who Died in 1987

Peter Tosh

Jamaican reggae musician and activist
Born
October 19th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1987 37 years ago — 42 years old

A pivotal figure in reggae music, contributions included founding the band The Wailers alongside Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer. Released influential solo albums such as 'Legalize It' and 'Equal Rights', which addressed social issues and advocated for the legalization of marijuana. As a performer, significant performances included the 1978 One Love Peace Concert in Jamaica. Tosh's powerful lyrics and music resonated with themes of freedom, human rights, and justice.

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Mahadevi Varma

Indian poet and activist, literary works
Born
March 26th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1987 37 years ago — 80 years old

Contributions to Hindi literature included poetry, essays, and children's literature. Composed notable collections such as 'Yama' and 'Gauripath'. Worked in education and served as a principal at a women's college. Actively participated in the Indian independence movement and promoted women's rights through writing and activism.

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John Qualen

Actor in classic Hollywood films
Born
December 8th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1987 37 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Canada and later becoming a U.S. citizen, an actor with a prolific career in film and television emerged in the early 20th century. Gained prominence in the 1930s and 1940s with critical roles in several classic films. Played notable parts in 'Casablanca' and 'The Maltese Falcon', showcasing a talent for character roles that contributed to the development of supporting performances in cinema. His career spanned several decades, resulting in many memorable appearances across various genres.

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Mervyn LeRoy

American director known for 'Wizard of Oz'
Born
October 15th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1987 37 years ago — 86 years old

An American director, producer, and actor made significant contributions to the film industry. Directed several critically acclaimed films, including 'The Wizard of Oz' (1939) and 'Little Caesar' (1931). Also served as a producer on numerous projects and was influential in establishing the role of the director in Hollywood. Began career in silent films and transitioned to talkies, becoming a key figure in the Golden Age of Hollywood. Worked with major studios and talent throughout the 20th century, leaving a lasting legacy in film direction.

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Christopher Soames

English politician and diplomat, Governor
Born
October 12th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1987 37 years ago — 66 years old

Served as a British politician and diplomat with a notable tenure as the Governor of Southern Rhodesia from 1964 to 1965. Initially educated at Eton College, held various positions in the British government, including Minister of State for Defence. Actively participated in negotiations related to the Rhodesian crisis during a time of significant political upheaval, aiming to guide the region towards a peaceful resolution. Returned to Parliament as a member of the House of Lords after a distinguished political career, engaging in issues concerning defense and international development.

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Harry Locke

English actor in television and film
Born
December 10th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1987 37 years ago — 73 years old

Active in the entertainment industry from the 1940s, this individual gained recognition for appearances in several popular television series and films. Most notably, roles included parts in 'The Lavender Hill Mob' and the series 'The Avengers'. The career spanned several decades, showcasing versatility in various character portrayals across different genres.

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Américo Tomás

Portuguese Admiral and 14th President
Born
November 19th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1987 37 years ago — 92 years old

Served as the 14th President of Portugal from 1958 to 1974. Held the rank of Admiral in the Portuguese Navy and was involved in various naval operations. His presidency coincided with a period of political turmoil in Portugal leading up to the Carnation Revolution, which ultimately resulted in his resignation. Was a prominent figure during the Estado Novo regime and played a significant role in maintaining the government's authority during his term.

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Einar Gerhardsen

Norwegian Prime Minister and statesman
Born
May 10th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1987 37 years ago — 90 years old

Einar Gerhardsen served as Prime Minister of Norway for three terms, with significant leadership during the post-World War II reconstruction period. He played a central role in establishing the welfare state in Norway, advocating for social democracy and labor rights. Gerhardsen was instrumental in creating a broad coalition of workers' parties and was a key figure in the Labour Party. His tenure contributed to the modernization of Norway's economy and infrastructure. He also represented the country at the United Nations and was involved in European peace efforts.

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Jaco Pastorius

Renowned jazz fusion bassist and composer
Born
December 1st, 1951 73 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1987 37 years ago — 35 years old

A prominent electric bassist, developed a unique style that combined jazz, funk, and rock, often using harmonics and complex rhythms. Released the influential self-titled album, which includes compositions like 'Teen Town' and 'Continental Shuffle'. Worked with the jazz band Weather Report, contributing to albums like 'Heavy Weather'. Around the 1970s, helped establish a new approach to bass guitar, showcasing its potential as a lead instrument in jazz. Also engaged in producing and collaborating with various artists throughout a prolific career until his untimely death.

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