What Happened This Year 1912

Born in 1912

Habib Elghanian

Businessman with notable contributions
Born
April 5th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent businessman in Iran, established and expanded significant commercial ventures. Contributed to the textiles and construction industries, becoming an influential figure in the economic landscape of the country. Actively engaged in various philanthropic efforts, supporting education and healthcare initiatives. Faced political challenges during the Iranian Revolution, leading to a complicated legacy.

Continue Reading

Jehan Buhan

French fencer and Olympic champion
Born
April 5th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 87 years old

Fencing career spanned several decades, achieving significant success in international competitions. Competed at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, securing a gold medal in team foil. Continued participation in various championships, contributing to the advancement of the sport in France. Played a role in promoting fencing as a competitive discipline through coaching and organizational efforts after retirement.

Continue Reading

John Le Mesurier

English actor, television and film star
Born
April 5th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1983 41 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent English actor, significant contributions to British television and film were made. Appeared in numerous productions across a career spanning several decades. Most recognized for roles in the sitcoms 'Dad's Army' and 'The Army Game'. Worked extensively in theatre before transitioning to screen acting, gaining acclaim for versatile performances.

Continue Reading

Alois Brunner

Austrian-German SS officer
Born
April 8th, 1912 112 years ago

Served as an SS officer during World War II, playing a prominent role in the deportation of Jews from France. Worked in various administrative positions within the Nazi regime, overseeing operations related to the logistics of mass exterminations. After the war, Brunner became a fugitive and lived in several countries, including Syria, evading international justice for his war crimes.

Continue Reading

Sonja Henie

Figure Skater and Actress, Olympic Champion
Born
April 8th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1969 55 years ago — 57 years old

Achieved prominence as a figure skater and actress, winning three consecutive Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936. Transitioned to a successful acting career in Hollywood, appearing in films such as 'One in a Million' and 'Sun Valley Serenade'. Combined athleticism with artistry, revolutionizing figure skating performances and popularizing the sport in the United States. Pioneered the integration of show business and competitive figure skating, influencing future generations of skaters.

Continue Reading

Lev Kopelev

Ukrainian-German author and academic
Born
April 9th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1997 27 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Ukraine, an author and academic focused on the consequences of totalitarian regimes. His literary works often reflect personal experiences during World War II and the Soviet era. Emigrated to Germany in the 1970s, engaging in education and cultural discussions. Written extensively on themes of freedom and the human condition, contributing to both literary and academic fields.

Continue Reading

Boris Kidrič

Austrian-Slovenian politician, 1st Prime Minister
Born
April 10th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1953 72 years ago — 41 years old

Served as the first Prime Minister of Slovenia after its independence. Played a significant role in shaping Slovenia's political landscape following the dissolution of Yugoslavia. Actively participated in the anti-fascist resistance during World War II. Contributed to the establishment of Slovenia as a sovereign nation in the early 1990s.

Continue Reading

John Levy

Bassist and music manager
Born
April 11th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 99 years old

A prominent bassist and music manager, contributions spanned several decades. Managed the careers of several notable jazz musicians, including George Shearing and Sarah Vaughan. Played bass for many major jazz acts and participated in numerous recording sessions. His expertise in both performance and management helped shape the careers of many artists during the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Hound Dog Taylor

Blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
April 12th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, this artist combined slide guitar with unique vocal style. Active primarily in the 1960s, this musician released several albums that showcased a raw, energetic sound. The debut album, 'Hound Dog Taylor and the HouseRockers,' introduced the world to an electrifying performance style that influenced many musicians in the blues genre. Touring widely, this artist gained a loyal following and became a staple in clubs across the United States, exemplifying the excitement of live blues music.

Continue Reading