What Happened This Year 1922

Born in 1922

Nikolay Basov

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 14th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2001 23 years ago — 78 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of laser technology and quantum electronics. Served as a professor at the Moscow State University, influencing multiple generations of physicists. His research laid the groundwork for numerous applications in physics and engineering. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1964 alongside Alexander Prokhorov and Charles Townes for the invention of methods for generating and amplifying electromagnetic waves.

Continue Reading

Junior J. Spurrier

American sergeant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
December 14th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 62 years old

Served as a sergeant in the United States Army during World War II. Displayed extraordinary bravery in combat while serving with the 27th Infantry Regiment. Was awarded the Medal of Honor for actions taken during the Battle of Buna-Gona in Papua New Guinea in 1942, where demonstrated exceptional leadership and valor in the face of enemy fire.

Continue Reading

Jack Brooks

American colonel and politician
Born
December 18th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2012 12 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a U.S. Congressman from Texas for over 40 years. Played a significant role in various legislative efforts, particularly in education and civil rights. Contributed to significant oversight on governmental agencies and was a member of key committees. Participated in military service during World War II and the Korean War. After a distinguished career in the military, transitioned to politics and became an influential figure in Texas.

Continue Reading

Esther Lederberg

Microbiologist and geneticist
Born
December 18th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 84 years old

Contributions to microbiology included work on bacterial genetics and the development of methods to study the interactions of viruses and bacteria. Established the importance of transduction in bacteria utilizing the bacteriophage. Collaborated with the husband in various research projects, including studies on the lambda phage and strain construction in Escherichia coli. Pioneering work laid foundations for future research in molecular genetics and understanding of bacterial recombination.

Continue Reading

Eamonn Andrews

Irish television and radio host
Born
December 19th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1987 37 years ago — 64 years old

Eamonn Andrews was a prominent Irish television and radio personality. He began his career in broadcasting with Radio Éireann and gained widespread recognition as a presenter. Andrews hosted the popular television quiz show 'What's My Line?' which became a staple of Irish television. He also became the face of several other television programs, including 'The Eamonn Andrews Show', which showcased various guests and entertainment segments. In addition to television, he had a successful career in radio, connecting with audiences across Ireland. His influence on Irish broadcasting left a lasting legacy.

Continue Reading

Beverly Pepper

Sculptor and painter, outdoor art installations
Born
December 20th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 98 years old

An American sculptor and painter, created large-scale outdoor sculptures and installations. Worked extensively with materials like steel, concrete, and stone. Became a significant figure in the public art movement, with many works installed across the United States and abroad. Developed a unique style that blends abstract forms with organic influences. Received numerous awards throughout the career, contributing to the discourse on contemporary sculpture.

Continue Reading

William Soeryadjaya

Businessman & Co-founder of Astra International
Born
December 20th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 88 years old

Co-founded Astra International, a major Indonesian conglomerate, which has interests in automotive, agribusiness, and other sectors. Helped transform Astra into one of Indonesia's largest publicly listed companies, contributing significantly to the country's economy. Played a pivotal role in the automotive industry through partnerships with leading global manufacturers and expanded Astra's reach across various business verticals.

Continue Reading

Cécile DeWitt-Morette

Mathematician and physicist in quantum theory
Born
December 21st, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 95 years old

A French mathematician and physicist specialized in quantum gravity. Played a crucial role in the development of quantum field theory and mathematical physics. Worked on the mathematical formalism of general relativity and contributed significantly to the understanding of quantum mechanics. Served as a professor and influenced numerous students through teaching and mentorship. Played an important role in various scientific committees and organizations.

Continue Reading

Paul Winchell

Ventriloquist and voice artist of Winnie the Pooh
Born
December 21st, 1922 102 years ago
Died
June 24th, 2005 19 years ago — 82 years old

An American actor, voice artist, and ventriloquist. Created the character Tigger for the animated film Winnie the Pooh and the Hundred Acre Wood. Developed a successful television career, appearing on various shows and hosting programs that showcased ventriloquism. Known for innovative voice techniques that brought characters to life, earning recognition in the entertainment industry. Contributed to children's television and animation, influencing a generation of viewers.

Continue Reading