What Happened This Year 1991

People Who Died in 1991

Angus Wilson

English author and academic
Born
August 11th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 78 years old

An English author and academic contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. The literary career spanned various genres, including novels, short stories, and essays. Notable works include 'The Old Men at the Zoo' and 'No Laughing Matter', which displayed a keen understanding of social issues and the human condition. He held academic positions, notably at the University of Sussex. His writing often incorporated elements of satire and realism.

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Ronald Lacey

English actor in 'The Life of Brian'
Born
September 28th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1935, this English actor gained prominence for performances in film and television. Notable appearances included roles in 'The Life of Brian', where he portrayed the character of an interrogator, and 'The New Avengers', highlighting versatility in both comedic and serious genres. His career spanned several decades, showcasing a range of characters across various productions, contributing significantly to British television and film during his active years.

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John McIntire

American actor in western films and TV
Born
June 27th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 84 years old

An American actor, notable work included roles in classic westerns. Appeared in the television series 'The Virginian' and the film 'Shenandoah.' Contributed to the genre by portraying strong, memorable characters. Worked extensively in both film and television, gaining recognition for a distinctive voice and commanding presence. Collaborated with many prominent directors and actors throughout a lengthy career, earning respect in the industry.

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Marguerite Williams

Geologist and first woman PhD graduate
Born
December 24th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 96 years old

Graduated with a PhD in geology, becoming the first woman in the United States to earn this degree. Contributed to the field through research focused on mineralogy and petrology. Worked as a professor and mentor, influencing the education of future geologists. Conducted research that improved understanding of the geological features in specific regions, influencing both academic and field studies.

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Doc Pomus

American singer-songwriter and musician
Born
June 27th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent singer-songwriter, contributed significantly to popular music in the mid-20th century. Specialized in rhythm and blues and pop music, collaborating with various artists to produce memorable songs. His early work included writing for The Drifters, with major hits emerging throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Other artists also recorded his compositions, further solidifying his influence. Continued to write and perform into the later years of life, showcasing a persistent dedication to music.

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Frank Yerby

American novelist, Master of the novel
Born
September 5th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1916, a prominent American novelist became widely recognized for contributions to historical fiction and his exploration of race relations in the U.S. His most notable work includes the bestselling novel 'Ol' Man Adam an' His Chillun.' Over several decades, his writing depicted themes of love, betrayal, and the human condition set against the backdrop of American history. This novelist broke barriers as one of the first African American authors to achieve commercial success in the genre. His works received critical acclaim and were published in multiple languages, reaching a global audience.

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John Charles Daly

Journalist and game show host at CBS
Born
February 20th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 77 years old

A journalist and game show host, contributed significantly to American television during the mid-20th century. Hosted the popular game show 'What's My Line?' for 17 years, becoming a recognizable figure in households across the nation. Worked as a foreign correspondent for CBS News, covering major events around the world. Daly's career spanned several decades, influencing the landscape of broadcast journalism and entertainment.

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Paul Gayten

American R&B pianist and songwriter
Born
January 29th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 71 years old

An influential American R&B pianist, songwriter, producer, and record company executive contributed significantly to the music scene in the mid-20th century. Originally from New Orleans, became recognized for creative arrangements and vibrant performances. Worked with prominent musicians and helped shape the sound of New Orleans rhythm and blues. Contributed to the rise of several artists during the 1950s and 1960s while holding key roles in record production.

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Luigi Pareyson

Italian philosopher and author
Born
February 4th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent philosopher based in Italy focused on the philosophy of art and aesthetics. Contributed significantly to the field with specific attention to the relationship between existence and interpretation, emphasizing the subjectivity of the creative process. Authored influential works that shaped contemporary thought on hermeneutics and the nature of artistic creation. Engaged with various philosophical movements, promoting discourse on the role of interpretation in understanding art and culture.

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