What Happened This Year 1987

People Who Died in 1987

Kishore Kumar

Singer-songwriter and actor renowned for music
Born
August 4th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1987 37 years ago — 58 years old

Influential Indian singer-songwriter and actor contributed significantly to Hindi cinema. Born in 1929, began career as a playback singer in the 1940s. Gained recognition for melodious voice and unique singing style, captivating audiences across generations. Also ventured into acting, starring in films such as "Chor Daka" and "Padosan." Established a successful career in the music industry, leaving an enduring legacy.

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Donald Wandrei

Author and poet, collaborated on Cthulhu Mythos
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1987 37 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to weird fiction and poetry. Co-founded the San Francisco Science Fiction Conference and published numerous poems and short stories. Collaborated with H.P. Lovecraft and contributed to the Cthulhu Mythos. Published works include 'The Eye and the Finger' and 'The Dark Muse'. Made substantial contributions to the genre through both writing and editing, creating a lasting legacy in speculative literature.

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Thomas Sankara

Burkinabé politician and revolutionary leader
Born
December 21st, 1949 75 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1987 37 years ago — 37 years old

Served as the 5th President of Burkina Faso from 1983 until 1987. Sankara implemented sweeping reforms aimed at combating corruption, improving education, and enhancing public health. Focused on self-sufficiency, he promoted agricultural development and women's rights. His government nationalized land, mineral resources, and initiated a range of social programs, making significant strides in literacy and healthcare during his tenure. His policies and leadership style inspired other revolutionary movements across Africa.

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Abdul Malek Ukil

Bangladeshi lawyer and politician
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1987 37 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent figure in the legal and political landscape, dedicated significant efforts towards the development of Bangladesh's legal framework. Served in various capacities, contributing to the formation and establishment of legal institutions. Played a vital role in advocating for the rule of law and justice in post-independence Bangladesh, ensuring the legal system addressed the needs of the populace. Engaged actively in political movements, focusing on the rights and representation of the people. His work laid foundational elements for subsequent legal reforms in the country.

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Jacqueline du Pré

Cellist renowned for Elgar's Cello Concerto
Born
January 26th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1987 37 years ago — 42 years old

Born in England, a prominent cellist gained recognition for the emotive performance of Elgar's Cello Concerto, which became a defining work of the 20th century. Training began at a young age, leading to a series of acclaimed performances. Du Pré’s career was marked by her exceptional technique and interpretative depth. Notable performances included collaborations with major orchestras and conductors, solidifying her reputation in classical music. The progression of multiple sclerosis significantly affected performance ability, yet her artistry left a profound legacy in the music world. Du Pré passed away in 1987, but remains an enduring figure in classical music, celebrated for her contributions.

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Hermann Lang

Race Car Driver, 1939 German Grand Prix Winner
Born
April 6th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1987 37 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1909, a German race car driver who competed in the pre-war era and achieved significant success in motorsport. Primarily raced for Mercedes-Benz and made his mark in Grand Prix racing during the late 1930s. Notably won the 1939 German Grand Prix at the Nürburgring, showcasing exceptional skill and speed. His career was interrupted by World War II, after which he returned to racing but did not achieve the same level of prominence. Continued to be involved in motorsport as a test driver and was highly regarded within the racing community until his death in 2009.

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Andrey Kolmogorov

Mathematician and probability theorist
Born
April 25th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1987 37 years ago — 84 years old

Significant contributions to probability theory and mathematical logic took place. Developed the modern theory of probability, establishing foundations for stochastic processes. Authored influential works that shaped the field, including 'Foundations of the Theory of Probability'. Contributed to topological groups and turbulence theories.

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Lino Ventura

Italian-French actor in classic films
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1987 37 years ago — 68 years old

An Italian-French actor recognized for significant roles in French cinema. Spent early life in Italy before relocating to France. Transitioned from professional wrestling to film, gaining prominence in the 1960s. Gained renown for performances in films such as 'The Godfather: Part III', 'Les Misérables', and 'The Sicilian Clan'. Worked with notable directors like Jacques Becker and Henri Verneuil. Retired from acting in the late 1980s.

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André Masson

Painter associated with Surrealism movement
Born
January 4th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1987 37 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1896, a painter and illustrator emerged as a significant figure in the Surrealism movement. Worked in various media, including painting, drawing, and collage. Participated in the 'Exposition Internationale du Surréalisme' in Paris in 1938. His artwork often explored themes of primal instincts and dreams, showcasing a distinct style characterized by dynamic lines and vibrant colors. Masson’s contributions to the field of art extended to literature as well, providing illustrations for various authors. Spent considerable time in the United States during World War II, where he developed connections with American artists and contributed to the growth of Surrealism in the country.

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