What Happened This Year 1987

People Who Died in 1987

Della H. Raney

Army Air Corps officer
Born
January 10th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 75 years old

Served as an officer in the American Army Air Corps. Contributed to the military efforts during World War II. Achievements in aviation and leadership within the corps notable. Played a significant role in the integration of women into military service.

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M. Bhaktavatsalam

Indian politician, 6th Chief Minister of Madras
Born
October 9th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the 6th Chief Minister of Madras State from 1963 to 1967. Worked as a lawyer and played a significant role in Indian politics during the mid-20th century. Contributed to various legislative initiatives in the Madras State Assembly. Actively participated in the Indian independence movement and was involved in the Congress party's activities.

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Errol Barrow

First Prime Minister of Barbados
Born
January 21st, 1920 106 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the first Prime Minister of Barbados from 1961 to 1966 and again from 1976 to 1985. Played a key role in the country's transition to independence from Britain in 1966. Established the Democratic Labour Party and contributed to the development of the nation’s education and social welfare systems. His administration focused on economic development, social justice, and national identity.

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Ella P. Stewart

Pioneering Black American pharmacist
Born
March 6th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1893, one of the first licensed African American female pharmacists in the United States. Established a drugstore in Columbus, Ohio, addressing the health care needs of the local Black community. Advocated for education and training opportunities for minority pharmacists. Actively participated in various civic organizations to promote health and wellness.

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Donald Nixon

Businessman active in the 20th century
Born
November 23rd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 73 years old

Active in the furniture and packaging industries, one notable venture included leadership roles in Nixon Enterprises. Held various positions in businesses contributing to local economies. Engaged in family-owned businesses promoting economic growth throughout the mid-20th century. Developed community ties through entrepreneurial efforts.

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Dambudzo Marechera

Zimbabwean author and poet
Born
June 4th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 35 years old

An influential writer from Zimbabwe, this author gained prominence for addressing themes of colonialism, identity, and post-colonial struggles. Works include 'The House of Hunger,' a semi-autobiographical novel that is considered a landmark in African literature. This writer's style combined elements of surrealism and realism, and was known for a unique narrative voice that challenged literary conventions. Alongside novels, poetry also featured prominently in this author's oeuvre, contributing significantly to the literary landscape of Zimbabwe.

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Cornelis Vreeswijk

Singer-songwriter and actor in Sweden
Born
August 8th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 50 years old

A singer-songwriter and actor, this individual gained prominence in the Swedish music scene during the 1960s and 1970s. With a unique blend of folk, jazz, and chanson, the works showcased reflective and often poignant lyrics. A significant contribution to the Swedish cultural landscape was made through various albums and performances. Notable hits include 'Balladen Om Fredrik Åkare Och Den Söta frun' and 'Café Sundsvall'. The career also encompassed acting, appearing in films and television, thus enriching the artistic fabric of the era.

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Ralph Guldahl

Professional golfer and Masters winner
Born
November 22nd, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 76 years old

Achieved significant success in professional golf during the 1930s. Won the Masters Tournament in 1939, showcasing exceptional skill and competitiveness. Claimed victory at the U.S. Open in both 1937 and 1938, establishing a dominant presence in the sport. Competed against a strong field of contemporaries, contributing to the popularity of golf in America.

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Salvador Lutteroth

Wrestling promoter, founded CMLL
Born
March 21st, 1897 129 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 90 years old

A wrestling promoter established an influential wrestling promotion in Mexico. The organization became the oldest professional wrestling promotion in the country, significantly contributing to the popularity of lucha libre. Collaboration with various wrestlers and the promotion of unique wrestling styles led to the establishment of a robust wrestling culture. After founding the Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre, the organization gained a reputation for high-profile events and training talented wrestlers who would become household names in the sport. Efforts in promoting wrestling have been recognized as a pivotal moment in Mexican sports culture.

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