What Happened This Year 1912

Born in 1912

William P. Yarborough

American general, paratrooper innovator
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2005 19 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a general in the United States Army, with a distinguished military career spanning over three decades. Played a crucial role in the development of airborne and special operations forces. Led the 82nd Airborne Division during significant periods of the Cold War. Instrumental in the creation and implementation of strategies for the U.S. Army's airborne operations.

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József Dudás

Hungarian politician and activist
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1957 68 years ago — 45 years old

An activist and politician, worked towards the rights of ethnic Hungarians in Romania. Held significant roles in local political organizations and was involved in representing Hungarian interests during a complex period of interwar Romania. He engaged in various political activities aimed at advocating for autonomy and cultural rights for Hungarian communities within Romania. Contribution to Hungarian political movements during the early 20th century marked a crucial period of ethnic tensions and political representation.

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Pappy Boyington

Colonel and WWII fighter pilot
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1988 37 years ago — 76 years old

Served as a United States Marine Corps pilot during World War II. Commanded the famous Black Sheep Squadron, achieving significant aerial victories. Awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism while leading his squadron in the South Pacific. His experiences were later chronicled in the television series 'Baa Baa Black Sheep'.

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Jaap Havekotte

Speed skater and ice skate producer
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2014 10 years ago — 102 years old

A speed skater from the Netherlands participated in competitive skating events and contributed to the sport through innovative ice skate production. Havekotte was also influential in the design and development of ice skates that aided athletes in enhancing performance. His expertise in both skating and skate manufacturing elevated the standards within the sport, influencing future generations of speed skaters. Havekotte's dedication to speed skating extended beyond his athletic career as he focused on producing high-quality ice skates.

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Winthrop Rockefeller

American politician and governor
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1973 52 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent political figure, served as the 37th Governor of Arkansas from 1967 to 1971. Focused on various reforms in education, welfare, and civil rights during the tenure. Played a significant role in the development of the state's economy and infrastructure. Worked to improve race relations and fostered cooperation among different communities.

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Roberta Wohlstetter

Political Scientist and Historian
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2007 18 years ago — 95 years old

Contributed to the study of intelligence and military history. Authored significant works, including 'Pearl Harbor: Warning and Decision,' which analyzed the intelligence failures preceding the attack on Pearl Harbor. Served as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley, where focus was placed on history and international relations. Participated in various governmental advisory boards and contributed to strategic assessments during the Cold War era.

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Paul Weston

American pianist and conductor of orchestras
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1996 28 years ago — 84 years old

Pianist, composer, and conductor significantly contributed to the music scene in the United States. Renowned for orchestrating music for film and television, worked extensively with Columbia Records. Conducted and arranged for numerous popular artists and created many albums featuring orchestral interpretations of popular songs. His work included collaborations with prominent vocalists and distinction as a staff conductor for popular programs.

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Sid McMath

Governor of Arkansas
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2003 21 years ago — 91 years old

Served as the 34th Governor of Arkansas from 1949 to 1953. Focused on modernizing the state's infrastructure and education system. Implemented progressive policies during a time of significant change in the South. Worked as a lawyer after his gubernatorial term and maintained involvement in politics.

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Gerald James Whitrow

Mathematician and cosmologist
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 2000 24 years ago — 88 years old

Contributions focused on cosmology, mathematics, and the history of these fields. Engaged in discussions about the philosophical implications of cosmological theories. Authored books that addressed the development of cosmology and its historical context. Explored the relationship between science and religion, emphasizing the evolution of understanding in cosmology through time. Served as a professor and was involved in educational efforts within mathematics and its applications.

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