What Happened This Year 1922

Born in 1922

Benjamin A. Gilman

American soldier and politician
Born
December 6th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2016 8 years ago — 94 years old

Served as a U.S. Representative from New York from 1973 to 1998. Participated in World War II as a soldier in the Army, where significant contributions included leadership roles. Actively engaged in international relations, particularly in Latin America and Eastern Europe during the post-Cold War era. Advocated for veterans' issues and supported various community initiatives throughout the congressional tenure.

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John Brunt

English captain, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
December 6th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1944 80 years ago — 22 years old

A captain in the British Army, served during World War II. Received the Victoria Cross for extraordinary bravery in battle. Demonstrated exceptional leadership and courage under fire, contributing to military efforts in critical operations. Participated in significant campaigns, showcasing tactical skills and resilience amidst adversity.

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Jean Ritchie

American folk singer and songwriter
Born
December 8th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2015 9 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent figure in American folk music, Ritchie contributed significantly to the preservation and popularization of traditional Appalachian music. Born in Kentucky, she began her career in the 1940s, sharing songs that highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the region. Ritchie's music often featured instruments such as the dulcimer, which she helped to revive among folk musicians. Throughout her career, she recorded numerous albums and published several songbooks, influencing generations of folk artists. Ritchie was also involved in the development of folk music education and was a beloved figure within the folk music community until her passing.

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Lucian Freud

Painter renowned for intense portraits
Born
December 8th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2011 13 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1922, this painter developed a unique style characterized by exploration of the human figure and psychological depth. Training under various artists, he synthesized influences from Expressionism and the British figurative tradition. Freud’s works often depicted close family and friends, utilizing thick, impasto layers of paint to illuminate their emotional states. The artist's most significant acclaim came with various exhibitions, including a prominent showcase at the Tate Gallery in London. Freud's methodologies emphasized long sitting sessions with his subjects, fostering an environment of intimacy. His painting, 'Benefits Supervisor Sleeping,' fetched a notable price at auction, establishing a record for a living artist at the time. Throughout his career, he faced challenges in the art industry but continued to influence contemporary figurative painting until his passing in 2011.

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Redd Foxx

Stand-up comedian and television actor
Born
December 9th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1991 33 years ago — 68 years old

An influential figure in comedy, Redd Foxx gained prominence as a stand-up comedian, performing in nightclubs and theaters throughout the mid-20th century. Foxx is widely recognized for the television series Sanford and Son, which aired from 1972 to 1977. The show showcased his comedic talent and contributed to his legacy in television. He also appeared in films, including appearances in prominent comedies of his era. Throughout his career, Foxx became a staple in African American entertainment, influencing future generations of comedians and actors with his style and humor.

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Agnes Nixon

Television writer and director of soap operas
Born
December 10th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2016 8 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed significantly to the genre of soap operas, specializing in writing and directing for television. Created the iconic soap operas 'All My Children' and 'One Life to Live', both of which gained wide popularity and had lengthy runs. Engaged in addressing social issues through storytelling, influencing narrative structures in daytime television. Nixon's work earned multiple Daytime Emmy Awards, cementing a legacy in the television industry.

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Dilip Kumar

Indian actor in classic cinema
Born
December 11th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2021 3 years ago — 98 years old

An influential figure in Indian cinema, this actor gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. Renowned for his performances in films such as 'Devdas', 'Mugal-e-Azam', and 'Naya Daur', he was widely recognized for his ability to portray complex characters with depth and nuance. Beyond acting, contributions included direction and screenwriting, influencing the landscape of Bollywood. This individual received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Dadasaheb Phalke Award and multiple Filmfare Awards, solidifying a legacy that would inspire future generations in the industry.

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Maila Nurmi

Actress and producer known as Vampira
Born
December 11th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
January 10th, 2008 17 years ago — 85 years old

An actress, producer, and screenwriter, gained recognition as the character Vampira, featuring in the 1956 film 'Plan 9 from Outer Space'. Created a television show in the 1950s that showcased horror films, becoming an early pioneer of horror television. Managed to capture the public's attention with unique style and personality.

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Grace Paley

Short story writer and poet, influential voice
Born
December 11th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2007 17 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent short story writer and poet, contributed significantly to American literature. Published several collections of stories, including 'The Little Disturbances of Man' and 'Here and Somewhere Else.' Wrote poetry that often reflected social themes and personal experiences. Worked as an activist supporting anti-war and feminist causes, intertwining literary work with social justice.

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