What Happened This Year 1942

People Who Died in 1942

Valentine Baker

Welsh Aircraft Company Co-Founder
Born
August 24th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1942 82 years ago — 54 years old

Co-founded the Martin-Baker Aircraft Company in 1934. Contributed to the development of ejection seats for military aircraft, improving pilot safety. The ejection seat designs became standard in many combat aircraft, enhancing survival rates for pilots during emergencies. Held various positions within the company, influencing aircraft safety protocols and engineering practices significantly.

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E. S. Gosney

Eugenicist and philanthropist, founded Human Betterment Foundation
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1942 82 years ago — 87 years old

An American eugenicist and philanthropist founded the Human Betterment Foundation in 1928, focusing on promoting eugenics and social reform. The foundation supported sterilization policies and research related to human heredity, which were influential during the early 20th century. The work of the foundation had a significant impact on eugenics movements across the United States. Additionally, active in various social issues, promoted public awareness about hereditary problems.

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Condé Montrose Nast

American publisher, founder of Condé Nast
Born
1873 152 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1942 82 years ago — 69 years old

Founded Condé Nast Publications, which revolutionized the magazine industry in the early 20th century. Launched periodicals such as Vogue, The New Yorker, Vanity Fair, and Architectural Digest. Pioneered the concept of magazine branding, focusing on high-quality content and stylish presentation. Built a legacy through the promotion of American cultural trends and lifestyle journalism.

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Kārlis Ulmanis

Latvian Prime Minister and President
Born
September 4th, 1877 147 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1942 82 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the Prime Minister and later as the President of Latvia. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Latvian Republic following World War I. Led the country during a period of national consolidation, emphasizing agrarian reform and economic development. Established a national language policy and prioritized education. Held power during the authoritarian regime from 1934 until the Soviet occupation in 1940. After the occupation, faced exile and continued to advocate for Latvia's independence.

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Douglas Albert Munro

Coast Guard signalman and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
October 11th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1942 82 years ago — 22 years old

Served as a signalman in the United States Coast Guard during World War II. Munro played a crucial role in the Battle of Guadalcanal, providing vital support during the evacuation of American forces. His actions on September 27, 1942, involved risking his life to save fellow service members, leading to his posthumous award of the Medal of Honor. Munro was the only Coast Guard service member to receive this high honor for actions in World War II.

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Hans-Joachim Marseille

German Luftwaffe pilot and fighter ace
Born
December 13th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1942 82 years ago — 22 years old

A distinguished Luftwaffe pilot during World War II, achieved fame as a fighter ace. Recognized for impressive aerial combat skills, credited with shooting down hundreds of enemy aircraft. Gained a reputation for tactics and flying maneuvers in the Messerschmitt Bf 109. Met an early death in 1942, yet remains one of the top aces of the war.

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Ants Piip

Estonian lawyer and politician
Born
February 28th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1942 82 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1884, this individual served as the 7th Prime Minister of Estonia during a critical period of the nation's early independence. A lawyer by profession, he was involved in legal and political affairs that shaped Estonia's trajectory in the early 20th century. His tenure coincided with significant national challenges, and he engaged in efforts to stabilize the governmental framework. The contributions within the political sphere were marked by a focus on legislative processes and national interests.

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Dorothea Klumpke

American astronomer and academic
Born
August 9th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1942 82 years ago — 81 years old

An American astronomer and academic contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, particularly in stellar spectroscopy. Achievements included studying the spectrum of various stars and the publication of numerous research papers. Served as the first female president of the American Astronomical Society and was instrumental in promoting women's roles in science. Earned a doctorate from the University of California, Berkeley, focusing on astrometry and spectrometry. Worked with institutions including the Paris-Meudon Observatory.

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Sergey Chaplygin

Physicist and mathematician in fluid mechanics
Born
April 5th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1942 82 years ago — 73 years old

Specialized in theoretical fluid mechanics and gas dynamics, made significant contributions to the mathematical description of airflows and fluid behavior. Developed the Chaplygin gas model, which is integral to cosmology and the understanding of dark energy. Worked as a professor at several universities, influencing future generations of engineers and physicists. Contributed to the field of aerodynamics through research and publication, particularly during the early 20th century.

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