What Happened This Year 1987

People Who Died in 1987

Gus Johnson

Basketball player with Washington Bullets
Born
December 13th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1938, this basketball player played in the NBA primarily for the Washington Bullets. His athleticism and scoring ability made him a standout in the league during his career in the 1960s and 1970s. The player was selected for multiple All-Star games and contributed to his team's competitive spirit. Following retirement, involvement included coaching and mentoring young athletes.

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Joyce Jameson

American actress in classic films
Born
September 26th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 55 years old

An American actress gained recognition for roles in classic films and television. Featured prominently in the 1960s, appeared in films such as 'The Ghost and Mr. Chicken' alongside Don Knotts and 'The Graduate' with Dustin Hoffman. Made numerous guest appearances on television series including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Bewitched'. Her performances in comedic and dramatic roles garnered attention during her active years.

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Arthur Schmidt

German military officer
Born
October 25th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a high-ranking officer in the German military during World War II. Participated in significant military campaigns and held various leadership positions within the armed forces. Conducted tactical operations and contributed to wartime strategies, influencing military decisions.

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John Hewitt

Irish poet and playwright with critical acclaim
Born
October 28th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1907, this individual contributed significantly to Irish literature as a poet, playwright, and critic. The work spanned various themes while reflecting on the social and political landscape of Ireland. Several plays were staged, and collections of poetry were published, which received critical acclaim. The writing style blended traditional forms with contemporary issues, establishing a distinct voice in Irish literature.

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Carlos Drummond de Andrade

Brazilian poet and literary contributor
Born
October 31st, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 85 years old

A significant figure in Brazilian literature, this poet wrote extensively from the early 20th century into the 1990s. His work often reflected themes of existentialism, urban life, and human emotion. The poem collection 'Alguma Poesia' marked a notable debut in 1930, establishing a new voice in Brazilian poetry. Throughout a prolific career, this writer contributed to poetry, prose, and journalism, becoming a major influence on subsequent generations of poets in Brazil and beyond.

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Hermione Gingold

English actress and singer with Broadway hits
Born
December 9th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 90 years old

An English actress and singer with a prominent career in theater and film, this performer gained recognition in the mid-20th century. Renowned for her roles in musical theater, she became a notable figure on Broadway, particularly for her performances in 'Gigi' and 'A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum'. She also appeared in several films and television shows, bringing her unique charm and talent to the screen. Gingold's work spanned over six decades, establishing a legacy in the performing arts.

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Dennis Poore

Racing driver and businessman
Born
August 19th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 71 years old

English racing driver competed in various events, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Mille Miglia. Transitioned to a successful career in business after retiring from racing. Contributed to the automotive industry through various ventures and developments. Left a legacy within motorsport and business sectors.

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Woody Hayes

American football coach for Ohio State
Born
February 14th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 74 years old

This individual served as the head football coach at Ohio State University from 1951 to 1978. During this tenure, the coach led the team to five national championships and 13 Big Ten Conference titles. The coaching style emphasized a strong running game and a physical approach to the sport. The individual was involved in various bowl games, including the Rose Bowl, and cultivated a notable rivalry with the University of Michigan. The coach's career concluded after a controversial incident in a 1978 Gator Bowl game, marking the end of a prominent era in college football coaching.

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James Jesus Angleton

CIA Chief of Counterintelligence
Born
December 9th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in the CIA, played a crucial role in shaping U.S. intelligence strategies during the Cold War. Served as Chief of Counterintelligence from 1954 until 1974, overseeing operations and analyzing counterespionage threats. Developed a reputation for his involvement in various covert operations and for managing sensitive intelligence regarding the Soviet Union. Also contributed to the establishment of numerous intelligence assessment methodologies that influenced national security strategies. His tenure was marked by intense scrutiny of Soviet espionage activities, leading to significant internal investigations within the agency. His influence extended beyond his official role, impacting intelligence community practices and methodologies in the years following his retirement.

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