What Happened This Year 1987

People Who Died in 1987

Bertram Wainer

Australian physician and activist
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1987 38 years ago — 59 years old

Contributed significantly to the fight for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in Australia. Actively campaigned against unjust laws and practices that discriminated against the gay community. Established the first conference for gay and lesbian rights in Australia. Advocated for the decriminalization of homosexuality in his country.

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Hugo Fregonese

Argentinian director and screenwriter
Born
April 8th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1987 38 years ago — 78 years old

An Argentinian director and screenwriter, contributed to the film industry through numerous productions from the 1940s to the 1970s. Worked in both Argentina and the United States, transitioning to Hollywood, where several films gained recognition. The influence of work extended to various film genres, including westerns and dramas, showcasing a unique storytelling style. Collaborated with prominent actors and participated in the creation of cinematic works that reflect both cultural and social themes.

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Charles Goodell

American politician and Capitol Hill lawyer
Born
March 16th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1987 38 years ago — 60 years old

Served as a U.S. Congressman and later as a U.S. Senator from New York. Elected to the House of Representatives in 1962, representing the 26th district. Appointed to the Senate in 1968 to fill the vacancy after Robert F. Kennedy's assassination. Advocated for civil rights and environmental issues during his time in office. Served until 1970, losing a primary election to a more liberal challenger.

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R. Budd Dwyer

Treasurer of Pennsylvania and educator
Born
November 21st, 1939 85 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1987 38 years ago — 47 years old

Served as the 30th Treasurer of Pennsylvania from 1971 until 1987. Before this role, worked as a teacher and school administrator, which shaped a commitment to public service and education. Attempted to address fiscal issues within the state's treasury department. Dwyer's tenure ended controversially with a public suicide during a press conference, an event which drew considerable media attention and discussion regarding mental health and political pressure.

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Norman McLaren

Animator and director of 'Neighbours'
Born
April 11th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1987 38 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent figure in animation, this Scottish-Canadian animator and director significantly contributed to the field through innovative techniques and storytelling. Pioneering the integration of sound and animation, the work included various acclaimed short films. Notable among those was 'Neighbours,' which won an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film in 1952. This individual also experimented with pixilation, a technique that combines live action with stop-motion animation, as demonstrated in numerous projects throughout a distinguished career. In addition to personal achievements, played a significant role in mentoring and influencing future generations of animators.

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Vincent R. Impellitteri

American politician, 101st Mayor of NYC
Born
1900 125 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1987 38 years ago — 87 years old

Served as the 101st Mayor of New York City from 1950 to 1953. Held the position of New York City Council President prior to becoming mayor. Contributed to the expansion of the city’s infrastructure during a period of post-war growth. After mayoralty, continued public service as a judge, influencing local governance and judicial processes.

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Yves Allégret

French film director and screenwriter
Born
October 13th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1987 38 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent figure in French cinema, directed films during the 1940s to 1960s. Contributed significantly to the post-war film movement and was a key part of the French New Wave. Established a distinct style blending realism with narrative innovation. Collaborated with notable actors, creating works that explored complex human emotions and societal issues.

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Alessandro Blasetti

Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
July 3rd, 1900 124 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1987 38 years ago — 86 years old

Significant contributions to Italian cinema occurred through direction and screenwriting. Emerged as a prominent figure in the 1930s and played a crucial role in the development of neorealism and other cinematic movements. Directed acclaimed films such as 'The Last Days of Pompeii' and 'The Siege of Alcazar'. Pioneered techniques that influenced generations of filmmakers, showcasing a unique narrative style.

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Carlos José Castilho

Brazilian footballer and manager, goalkeeper
Born
November 27th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1987 38 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent goalkeeper, contributed significantly to the success of Fluminense Football Club during the 1940s and 1950s. Played in three FIFA World Cups, specifically in 1950, where Brazil finished as runners-up. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, leading various teams, including Fluminense, in the following decades.

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