What Happened This Year 1912

Born in 1912

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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Tanka Prasad Acharya

Politician, 27th Prime Minister of Nepal
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1992 33 years ago — 80 years old

Served as the 27th Prime Minister of Nepal and played a significant role in shaping the country's political landscape. Actively participated in the democratic movement and worked on establishing parliamentary democracy in Nepal. His tenure included efforts to improve governance and modernize various sectors in the country. After his political career, continued to influence Nepal’s political discourse until death in 1992.

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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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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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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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Marius Goring

English actor in film and theater
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1998 26 years ago — 86 years old

An English actor whose career spanned several decades in both film and theater. Featured prominently in the film 'The Red Shoes', one of the most celebrated British films of the 20th century. Also known for performances in theatrical productions and worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company. Later, contributed to television with various roles, showcasing versatility across multiple mediums.

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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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Conlon Nancarrow

Composer of player piano music
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1997 27 years ago — 85 years old

An American-Mexican composer and pianist, created innovative compositions primarily for player piano. Relocated to Mexico in the 1940s, where he spent most of his life and further developed his unique style. Explored complex rhythms and patterns, significantly contributing to the development of contemporary music. The player piano allowed for intricate, rapid passages that were difficult to perform by human musicians.

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