What Happened This Year 1912

Born in 1912

Philip Kapleau

Zen Buddhist monk and educator
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2004 20 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent Zen Buddhist monk, this individual played a significant role in introducing Zen practice to the Western world. Ordained as a monk in Japan, focus shifted to Western audiences, establishing a Zen center in Rochester, New York. Worked as a teacher and educator, advocating for meditation and mindfulness practices. Authored influential texts on Zen and meditation, contributing to a greater understanding and integration of these practices in Western culture.

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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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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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Henry M. Jackson

U.S. Senator and influential politician
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1983 41 years ago — 71 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Washington from 1953 to 1983. Played a key role in the development of the Alaskan lands legislation and was instrumental in the formation of the National Park Service's Urban Parks Program. Advocated for civil rights, environmental protection, and the expansion of social programs. Led various Senate committees throughout the tenure and was a prominent figure in the Democratic Party. Promoted the development of the Pacific Northwest and became a significant voice in national defense and foreign policy matters.

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Ray Eames

American architect, Eames House co-designer
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1988 36 years ago — 76 years old

An architect who collaborated with Charles Eames in design and furniture innovations, contributing significantly to modern design aesthetics. The Eames House, part of Case Study House Program #8, was designed as both a residence and a showcase for their furniture. This structure emphasizes the integration of art and architecture, embodying the principles of open space and functionality. The combination of modern materials and an expressive style marked a pivotal moment in mid-century modern architecture. Additionally, contributions to film and multimedia explored the intersection of design and visual storytelling.

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Theodore Marier

Composer and educator, Boston Archdiocesan Choir School
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2001 24 years ago — 89 years old

An American composer and educator, established the Boston Archdiocesan Choir School, which aimed to train young choristers and provide a solid musical foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Contributions to liturgical music included organizing choirs and developing educational programs that emphasized the importance of music in worship. Worked to enhance the choral repertoire and provided opportunities for young singers to perform and grow musically. Authored instructional materials and actively participated in numerous music conferences.

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Bert Kelly

Australian politician and Navy Minister
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1997 28 years ago — 85 years old

A farmer and politician, served as the 20th Minister for the Navy in Australia from 1975 to 1976. Represented the Division of Wakefield in the House of Representatives from 1965 to 1984. Played a significant role in several defense initiatives and contributed to agricultural policies during tenure as a member of parliament. Advocated for farmers' interests and participated in various legislative debates regarding national security and rural development.

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