What Happened This Year 1912

Born in 1912

Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner

American inventor of sanitary belt
Born
May 17th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 94 years old

An inventor contributed significantly to innovations in feminine hygiene products. Developed the first sanitary belt with an adjustable fit, providing a more comfortable and practical solution for women. Despite facing challenges in patenting inventions due to racial discrimination, continued to create useful household and personal items throughout her life. Worked in various capacities, including a long career as a floral designer and entrepreneur.

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Walter Sisulu

South African politician and activist
Born
May 18th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2003 21 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1912, a prominent figure in South Africa's anti-apartheid movement, played a crucial role in the African National Congress. Joined the ANC in 1940 and became a key strategist, organizing protests and advocating for the rights of black South Africans. Arrested in 1960, faced treason charges and later sentenced to life imprisonment during the Rivonia Trial in 1964. His imprisonment lasted until 1989, coinciding with the international push against apartheid. After release, contributed to negotiations for a democratic South Africa and served as a member of parliament post-1994.

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Perry Como

Singer and television host with hit songs
Born
May 18th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2001 23 years ago — 88 years old

An influential figure in American music and television, this individual rose to prominence in the mid-20th century. Known for smooth vocal delivery and relaxed style, contributed to the popularity of popular music and variety shows. Hosted 'The Perry Como Show' from 1955 to 1966, which showcased a range of performances and welcomed numerous guest stars. Recorded numerous hits, achieving substantial success on the Billboard charts, and earned multiple Grammy Awards throughout a long-lasting career.

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Richard Brooks

American director and screenwriter
Born
May 18th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1992 33 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent director, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to American cinema from the 1950s to the 1980s. Directed notable films such as 'Elmer Gantry', which garnered critical acclaim and earned Academy Awards. Worked on various genres, including drama and crime, and created influential television series. Demonstrated skill in adapting literary works to film, evident in successful adaptations like 'In Cold Blood'.

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Monty Stratton

Baseball player and coach
Born
May 21st, 1912 112 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1982 42 years ago — 70 years old

Monty Stratton was a professional baseball player and coach. He played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Chicago White Sox. Stratton achieved recognition for his performance during the 1934 season when he won 15 games. His career was interrupted by a hunting accident which resulted in the amputation of his right leg. After his recovery, Stratton successfully returned to baseball and contributed to the sport as a coach. He also became a motivational speaker, sharing his experiences with overcoming adversity.

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Herbert C. Brown

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 22nd, 1912 112 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2004 20 years ago — 92 years old

Born in England and later moving to the United States, a chemist made significant contributions to the fields of organic chemistry and boron chemistry. The development of the hydroboration reactions provided new pathways for synthetic organic chemists. In 1979, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for pioneering work with boron compounds. Served as a professor at Purdue University, contributing to academic research and education.

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John Payne

Actor known for 'Miracle on 34th Street'
Born
May 23rd, 1912 112 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1989 35 years ago — 77 years old

An American actor achieved prominence in film during the 1940s and 1950s. Gained recognition for performances in various genres, including musicals and dramas. Starred in the classic holiday film 'Miracle on 34th Street' as Fred Gailey. Also led in the film 'Section 8' and appeared in numerous television series throughout the 1960s.

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Dean Rockwell

American wrestling coach and commander
Born
May 25th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2005 19 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a commander in the United States Army. Coached wrestling at various institutions, significantly contributing to the development of the sport. Established a reputation for fostering athletic talent and dedication among his wrestlers. His coaching methodology focused on discipline and teamwork, leading to success in competitions.

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János Kádár

Hungarian politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 26th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1989 35 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Hungary from 1956 to 1988. Played a significant role in the establishment of the socialist government after the 1956 revolution. Implemented a policy of 'Goulash Communism,' which combined elements of socialism with a degree of consumerism. Led Hungary through significant economic reforms and maintained relative stability during the Cold War period. Oversaw Hungary's transition to a more market-oriented economy in the 1980s, positioning the country in a unique way compared to other Eastern Bloc nations.

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