What Happened This Year 1942

People Who Died in 1942

Arnold Majewski

Finnish military hero
Born
December 11th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1942 82 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1892 in Finland to Polish parents, achieved recognition for military service during the Winter War and Continuation War. Participated in numerous key battles, demonstrating tactical skill and leadership. Played a significant role in the defense of Finnish territory against Soviet forces. Post-war, continued to contribute to Finnish military operations and served in various capacities within the armed forces.

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Noboru Yamaguchi

Japanese mob boss involved in crime syndicate
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
October 14th, 1942 82 years ago — 40 years old

Led a prominent yakuza organization during the early 20th century in Japan. Played a significant role in the expansion of organized crime activities in the Tokyo area. Established connections with various factions and sought to maintain power amid the turbulent socio-political environment of the time. His leadership contributed to the shaping of yakuza operations, including involvement in illegal gambling and other criminal enterprises. Passed away in 1942.

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Mikhail Nesterov

Russian painter, 'The Great Martyr'
Born
1862 163 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1942 82 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent Russian painter, contributed significantly to the development of Russian art in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Focused on religious and spiritual themes, often depicted scenes from Russian folklore and saintly figures. The work 'The Great Martyr' remains one of the most notable pieces, showcasing a blend of realism and symbolism. Nesterov was also involved in the revival of the traditional East Slavic icon painting, influencing the art community during his time. His distinctive style combined elements of Impressionism with an emphasis on Russian themes.

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Ralph Rainger

American pianist and composer
Born
1901 124 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1942 82 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent pianist and composer, contributions to film music included popular songs and scores during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Collaborated with lyricist Leo Robin on numerous hits, enhancing the musical landscape of the time. Worked on notable films, composing memorable pieces that resonated with audiences. Rainger's work on projects such as "Going My Way" and "The Bank Dick" showcased exceptional talent in blending music with cinematic storytelling.

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Helmuth Hübener

German anti-Nazi activist
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1942 82 years ago — 17 years old

A German activist opposed to the Nazi regime, engaged in distributing anti-Nazi pamphlets in Hamburg. Arrested by the Gestapo at the age of 16, faced a trial and was executed for his actions against the government. His efforts highlighted youth resistance to totalitarianism during World War II. Became a symbol of courage for standing up against oppression and injustice at a young age.

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Walter Buckmaster

Polo player and businessman, co-founder
Born
October 16th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1942 82 years ago — 70 years old

Born in England, a polo player emerged as a prominent figure in the sport during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Co-founded Buckmaster & Moore, a company that contributed significantly to the promotion and development of polo. Accumulated considerable accolades in various polo tournaments, establishing a strong reputation within the equestrian community.

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Hugo Distler

German composer and conductor of choral works
Born
June 24th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1942 82 years ago — 34 years old

Pioneered new approaches to choral music in the early 20th century. Composed various works that emphasized a blend of modern and traditional styles. Served as a conductor for multiple choirs and contributed significantly to the music education field. Best recognized for compositions that integrated liturgical themes with contemporary musical forms.

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George M. Cohan

Songwriter and Broadway performer
Born
July 3rd, 1878 146 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1942 82 years ago — 64 years old

An American songwriter, actor, singer, and dancer, recognized as one of the pioneers of musical theater in the United States. Cohan wrote the scores for several prominent Broadway shows in the early 20th century. Hit productions included 'Little Johnny Jones', 'George Washington, Jr.', and 'Yankee Doodle Dandy'. His patriotic songs, such as 'Over There' and 'You're a Grand Old Flag', became anthems during World War I. He was among the first composers to integrate song and dance into the narrative of musicals, shaping the development of the genre.

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Emil Starkenstein

Czech pharmacologist, co-founded clinical pharmacology
Born
December 18th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
November 6th, 1942 82 years ago — 57 years old

A pharmacologist co-founded the discipline of clinical pharmacology, significantly contributing to the understanding of drug effects on the human body. Starkenstein's work laid the groundwork for future research in medical therapies and the evaluation of drug efficacy and safety. Throughout the career, collaboration with other prominent scientists drove advancements in pharmacological studies, shaping the way drugs are tested and used in clinical settings.

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