What Happened This Year 1922

Born in 1922

Troy Smith

Businessman, founder of Sonic Drive-In
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2009 15 years ago — 87 years old

Founded Sonic Drive-In, a fast-food restaurant chain known for its drive-in service and varied menu options. Established the first location in 1953, which focused on providing a unique dining experience where customers could order from their cars. Expanded the chain significantly, leading to thousands of locations across the United States. The company became recognized for its distinctive use of carhops and drive-thru services, creating a popular dining trend. Continued to innovate within the fast-food industry until passing away in 2009.

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Sōsuke Uno

Japanese politician, 75th Prime Minister
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1998 27 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the 75th Prime Minister of Japan from April to June 1991. Uno had a background in law and held various senior government positions prior to becoming Prime Minister. His tenure was marked by efforts to address Japan's economic issues and strengthen diplomatic relations. After leaving office, Uno continued to be involved in politics until his passing in 1998.

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Vasco Gonçalves

Portuguese general and Prime Minister
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2005 20 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the 103rd Prime Minister of Portugal after the Carnation Revolution in 1974. Focused on implementing social reforms and nationalizations during a transformative period in Portuguese history. Was a member of the Armed Forces Movement, which led the coup that overthrew the Estado Novo regime. Held the position of Prime Minister from 1974 to 1975, during which significant political changes occurred in the country. Later transitioned into a political career, influencing Portuguese politics in various capacities before entering retirement.

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Dick Hoerner

American football player, NFL star
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
December 11th, 2010 14 years ago — 88 years old

Played professional American football as an offensive lineman. Competed in the National Football League (NFL) for teams including the Chicago Bears and the Philadelphia Eagles. Had a successful career spanning several seasons and was part of teams that contended for league championships.

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Juri Lotman

Historian and scholar of semiotics
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1993 31 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of semiotics and cultural studies. Founded the Tartu-Moscow Semiotic School, influencing many scholars in the discipline. Published numerous works on the interplay of culture, literature, and language, including 'The Structure of the Artistic Text'. Explored the role of texts within their cultural contexts and examined how meaning is constructed in society.

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Tata Giacobetti

Italian singer-songwriter known for pop music
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1988 36 years ago — 66 years old

Born in Italy, a prominent singer-songwriter emerged in the music scene during the mid-20th century. Achieved popularity with appealing melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to the Italian pop music landscape. Gained recognition through unique performances and recordings. Died in 1988, leaving behind a legacy of influential music.

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Guy Thys

Football coach and Belgium national team manager
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2003 22 years ago — 81 years old

Played professional football primarily as a midfielder. Managed the Belgium national football team from 1976 to 1989 and guided the team to the 1986 FIFA World Cup, where Belgium reached the semi-finals. Additionally, coached Royal Antwerp, winning the Belgian Cup in 1989. His tenure contributed to the development of Belgian football during a formative period in its history.

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Charlie Sifford

Professional golfer, first African American on PGA Tour
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 93 years old

Became the first African American to compete on the PGA Tour after breaking racial barriers in professional golf. Won the 1967 Greater Hartford Open and the 1975 Long Beach Open. Pioneered the path for future generations of golfers. Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2014, recognizing contributions to the sport.

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