What Happened This Year 1912

Born in 1912

Nigel Patrick

English actor and director in theatre
Born
May 2nd, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 69 years old

An English actor and director, contributions spanned across stage and film. Gained recognition for performances in productions such as 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and 'The Way Ahead'. Directed various plays and worked in television. Achieved success in both dramatic and comedic roles, demonstrating versatility throughout a long career in the entertainment industry.

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May Sarton

Poet and novelist with memoirs
Born
May 3rd, 1912 112 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1995 29 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1912, Sarton was an American poet, novelist, and memoirist. Several of her works focused on the themes of aging, solitude, and the creative process. Sarton published over 20 poetry collections and numerous novels throughout her career, with notable titles including "An Aging Woman's Journal" and "Mrs. Stevens Hears the Mermaids Singing." In addition to writing, Sarton taught and mentored younger writers, contributing to literary communities.

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Virgil Fox

American organist, composer, and performer
Born
May 3rd, 1912 112 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1980 44 years ago — 68 years old

An acclaimed organist and composer, contributions include performances across major concert halls in the United States and Europe. Developed a unique style that integrated classical organ literature with contemporary elements. Held a prominent position in the American organ community, influencing generations of musicians through his innovative techniques and interpretations.

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George Woodcock

Canadian author and poet
Born
May 8th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 83 years old

Woodcock was an influential Canadian author and poet, active in the literary scene throughout the 20th century. He wrote extensively on topics such as anarchism, literature, and Canadian culture. His works spanned various genres, including poetry, essays, and critiques. Woodcock's involvement in literary circles and his contributions to magazines and anthologies helped shape the literary landscape in Canada. His notable achievements include the establishment of the anarchist journal 'The Canadian Anarchist', and he served as a prominent voice for the anarchist movement in the country. His literary output remains significant in discussions of Canadian literature and political thought.

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Pedro Armendáriz

Mexican-American actor in classic films
Born
May 9th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1963 61 years ago — 51 years old

A prominent actor with a career spanning several decades, primarily in the Golden Age of Mexican cinema. Gained recognition for performances in films such as 'The Mask of Zorro' and 'The Forgotten Village'. Worked with celebrated directors and actors, becoming a key part of the film industry during the mid-20th century. Faced challenges of typecasting but remained a leading figure in both Mexican and American cinema. His career was marked by memorable roles that showcased both talent and charisma.

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Saadat Hasan Manto

Pakistani author and screenwriter
Born
May 11th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1955 70 years ago — 42 years old

An influential writer and playwright, Manto gained recognition for his short stories focusing on the struggles and complexities of human nature, particularly during the partition of India in 1947. Manto's works explore themes of sexuality, identity, and social issues, often causing controversy due to their frankness. Significant contributions include a series of short stories that depict the harrowing experiences of people in a newly divided society. Additionally, Manto wrote screenplays for films, showcasing his versatility as a writer. His unique voice and narrative style left a lasting legacy in Urdu literature.

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Gil Evans

Composer and bandleader of jazz music
Born
May 13th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 76 years old

Contributions included pioneering arrangements in the jazz genre, particularly through collaborative works with musicians such as Miles Davis. Worked extensively in the jazz fusion style and was integral in the development of orchestral jazz. Created influential recordings, including 'Miles Ahead' and 'Sketches of Spain'. Led the Gil Evans Orchestra, which showcased innovative compositions and arrangements. Received multiple Grammy Awards for work in music, cementing a legacy in jazz history.

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Studs Terkel

Historian and author of 'Working'
Born
May 16th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2008 16 years ago — 96 years old

A prominent American oral historian and author, this individual produced significant works that captured the voices of everyday Americans. The most notable book, 'Working', published in 1974, offers a collection of interviews that give insight into the lives and experiences of various laborers across different occupations. Beyond this monumental work, contributions include 'The Good War', an exploration of World War II through personal narratives, and numerous other titles that reflect on American life and history. This individual engaged with complex social issues, articulating the experiences of ordinary people through storytelling that resonated widely.

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Archibald Cox

American lawyer and 31st Solicitor General
Born
May 17th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2004 20 years ago — 92 years old

Practiced law after graduating from Harvard Law School. Served as the 31st United States Solicitor General from 1961 to 1965, representing the federal government before the Supreme Court. Appointed as special prosecutor during the Watergate scandal, overseeing the investigation of the Nixon administration's role in the affair. His tenure included the critical moment known as the Saturday Night Massacre, when he was dismissed by President Nixon, which intensified public outcry and led to further investigations.

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