What Happened This Year 1912

Born in 1912

Palle Huld

Danish actor and filmmaker
Born
August 2nd, 1912 112 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1912, this Danish actor gained recognition for roles in film and television. Began career in the 1930s and appeared in numerous productions. Also worked creatively as a filmmaker, contributing to the Danish film industry. Over the years, built a reputation as a versatile performer with a lasting legacy in Scandinavian cinema.

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Fritz Hellwig

German politician and member of Bundestag
Born
August 3rd, 1912 112 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 105 years old

A politician engaged in German politics, contributing significantly to the post-war political landscape. Served as a member of the Bundestag from 1949 to 1972, representing the Free Democratic Party. Played a pivotal role in various legislative initiatives during the early years of the Federal Republic of Germany, focusing on civil rights and economic reforms. Actively participated in shaping policy and governance in a rapidly changing Europe following World War II.

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Raoul Wallenberg

Diplomat who saved Hungarian Jews
Born
August 4th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 35 years old

An architect and diplomat, focused on humanitarian efforts during World War II. Assigned as a Swedish envoy to Budapest, facilitated the issuance of protective passports to Jews facing deportation. Established safe houses designated as Swedish territory, which provided shelter to thousands. Promoted international awareness of the plight of Jews, aiming to mitigate their suffering during the Holocaust. Detained by Soviet forces in 1945, details of his fate remain unresolved.

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Aleksandr Danilovich Aleksandrov

Mathematician and physicist, mountaineer
Born
August 4th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1999 25 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent mathematician and physicist, contributed significantly to several fields within science. Worked in mathematics, particularly in topology and functional analysis, publishing numerous papers that advanced theoretical frameworks. Engaged in physics research that involved mathematical models. Additionally, pursued mountaineering, reaching high peaks and exploring challenging terrains, which complemented his scientific pursuits. Received honors for contributions to mathematics and education, mentoring future generations in the discipline.

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David Raksin

Composer known for 'Laura' score
Born
August 4th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2004 20 years ago — 92 years old

A significant American composer and educator, contributions spanned film and concert music. Raksin's most recognized work, the score for the 1944 film 'Laura,' became a standard in American cinema. Raksin also composed music for other films, including 'Too Late for Tears' and 'The Bad and the Beautiful.' In addition to film scores, Raksin was an influential educator, teaching composition and music theory at various institutions, impacting numerous students in the field of music.

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Abbé Pierre

French priest and activist for the homeless
Born
August 5th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2007 18 years ago — 94 years old

A Catholic priest dedicated to social activism, worked extensively to aid the homeless and the marginalized. Founded the Emmaus movement in 1949, which established communities to provide housing and support for those in need. Gained prominence in France during the post-World War II period, advocating for social justice and housing rights. Active in public life, participated in campaigns and initiatives for the welfare of the less fortunate. Continued humanitarian efforts until death in 2007.

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Jorge Amado

Brazilian novelist and poet, pivotal works
Born
August 10th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2001 23 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent Brazilian novelist and poet, contributed significantly to Brazilian literature. Works often explored themes of social justice, cultural identity, and the lives of the marginalized in Brazilian society. Gained international acclaim through novels translated into numerous languages. His most notable works include 'Gabriela, Clove and Cinnamon', 'Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands', and 'The Sound of the Sea'. His writing style fused lyrical elements with vivid storytelling, reflecting the rich culture and social issues of Brazil. Received multiple prestigious awards, enhancing literary reputation on a global scale.

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Samuel Fuller

American filmmaker and screenwriter
Born
August 12th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1997 27 years ago — 85 years old

An influential filmmaker who directed many acclaimed films, achieved recognition for a unique style that combined elements of realism and pulp fiction. Directed notable works such as 'Pickup on South Street', 'The Steel Helmet', and 'White Dog', which explored themes of war and social issues. Contributed significantly to cinema as a director, screenwriter, and producer. Also wrote an autobiography titled 'A Third Face'.

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Salvador Luria

Biologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 13th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1991 34 years ago — 78 years old

Served as a biologist and physician. Conducted pioneering research in bacteriophage genetics and molecular biology. Contributed significantly to the understanding of the genetic mechanisms in bacteria. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1969 for discoveries related to the genetic regulation of virus synthesis.

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