What Happened This Year 1922

Born in 1922

Lane Kirkland

Union Leader and Sailor
Born
March 12th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 77 years old

A significant figure in labor movements, played a crucial role as the president of the AFL-CIO from 1979 to 1995. Advocated for workers' rights and worked towards improving labor relations during a time of economic changes in the U.S. Instrumental in organizing efforts and maintaining solidarity among various unions. Participated in international labor discussions and championed the rights of workers across multiple industries.

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Jack Kerouac

American author of 'On the Road'
Born
March 12th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1969 55 years ago — 47 years old

An influential American author and poet, he wrote primarily during the 1950s. His most recognized work, 'On the Road', published in 1957, became a defining novel of the Beat Generation, depicting a series of cross-country travels with friends. His writing style, characterized by spontaneous prose, reflected the rhythms of jazz music and a quest for personal freedom. Other significant works include 'The Dharma Bums' and 'Big Sur'. His literature often explored themes of spirituality and the American experience, with a focus on nonconformity.

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Les Baxter

Pianist and composer of film music
Born
March 14th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1996 29 years ago — 73 years old

An American pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the genre of film music. Gained recognition for the 1950s soundtrack of the film 'The World of Suzie Wong'. Also worked extensively in the 1960s and 1970s on projects that fused orchestral arrangements with popular music styles. Provided musical arrangements for various television shows and stage productions, showcasing a versatile approach to composition. Remembered for his innovative blending of pop and classical music elements.

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Suzanne Perlman

Hungarian-Dutch visual artist
Born
March 18th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2020 4 years ago — 98 years old

Born in Hungary, a visual artist worked in multiple mediums including painting and installation. Relocated to the Netherlands, engaged with various artistic movements and exhibited works internationally. Contributed to contemporary art dialogue and emphasized themes of identity and memory in her creations. Her works have been featured in esteemed galleries and museums across Europe.

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Seymour Martin Lipset

Sociologist and author of "American Exceptionalism"
Born
March 18th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2006 18 years ago — 84 years old

An influential sociologist and academic focused on American society, political culture, and democratic theory. Contributed to the understanding of social stratification, political behavior, and the impact of social conditions on democracy. Authored several significant works, including "American Exceptionalism: A Double-Edged Sword," which examined the uniqueness of American society in its political and cultural contexts. Served as a professor at several universities, including Stanford and George Mason University, where taught courses on sociology and politics.

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Egon Bahr

German politician and journalist
Born
March 18th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2015 9 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a prominent German politician and journalist. Held the position of Federal Minister for Special Affairs from 1966 to 1969. Played a pivotal role in shaping the policy of Ostpolitik, which aimed at improving relations with East Germany and the Eastern Bloc during the Cold War. Contributed significantly to the diplomatic efforts between East and West Germany, facilitating dialogue and negotiations in a tense geopolitical environment.

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Fred Shuttlesworth

Civil Rights Activist, Co-founder SCLC
Born
March 18th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 89 years old

Played a crucial role in the American civil rights movement. Co-founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference alongside Martin Luther King Jr. Focused efforts on desegregation and voter registration, advocating for equality and justice in the South. Led numerous protests and demonstrations to combat racial discrimination, particularly in Birmingham, Alabama. Known for his courageous activism despite facing violence and intimidation.

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Hiroo Onoda

Japanese intelligence officer, WWII
Born
March 19th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old

Served as a second lieutenant in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Stationed on Lubang Island in the Philippines, Onoda engaged in guerrilla warfare against American forces. After Japan's surrender in 1945, he continued to fight, unaware that the war had ended. Persisted in his mission for nearly 30 years, living in the jungle and conducting raids on local farmers and hikers. Surrendered in 1974 when his former commanding officer traveled to the island to formally relieve him of duty.

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Guy Lewis

Basketball player and coach, Houston Cougars
Born
March 19th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2015 9 years ago — 93 years old

An American basketball player and coach, this individual served as head coach of the University of Houston men's basketball team from 1956 to 1986. The team gained prominence during the late 1970s and early 1980s, leading to several deep NCAA tournament runs. During the coaching career, he cultivated talents such as Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. The individual's coaching strategy emphasized fast-paced play and athleticism, contributing to a significant evolution in college basketball. The team reached the NCAA Final Four three times, including back-to-back appearances in 1982 and 1983.

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