What Happened This Year 1942

People Who Died in 1942

François Darlan

French Admiral and Prime Minister
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1942 83 years ago — 61 years old

Served as a French admiral and held the position of 122nd Prime Minister of France during World War II. Darlan played a significant role in the French Navy and was instrumental in the naval operations in the Mediterranean. His political career included overseeing the government's military strategies while navigating the complexities of wartime alliances. Darlan's leadership was marked by pivotal decisions that influenced French military engagements.

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Alfred Flatow

German gymnast and Olympic champion
Born
October 3rd, 1869 156 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1942 82 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent German gymnast, achievements included participation in the 1896 Athens Olympics. Secured medals in various events, contributing to the early history of gymnastics at the Olympic level. Played a significant role in advancing the sport in Germany during the late 19th century. Later faced persecution during the rise of the Nazi regime and emigrated to safety in the late 1930s.

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Karin Swanström

Swedish actress and director, 'Swedenhielms'
Born
June 13th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1943 82 years ago — 70 years old

Birth occurred in 1873. Career spanned over several decades, primarily in Swedish cinema and theater. Made notable contributions as both an actress and director. Worked closely with various prominent Scandinavian playwrights and filmmakers. Directed acclaimed productions and was involved in the production side of the film industry. Played significant roles in classic Swedish films and was pivotal in nurturing new talent in theater and cinema during the early 20th century.

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Janusz Korczak

Pediatrician and author of children's rights
Born
July 22nd, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 64 years old

A pediatrician and author, he specialized in child welfare and education. Established an orphanage in Warsaw, which he directed while advocating for children's rights. Wrote works that focused on the inner lives of children. Despite the Nazi occupation, he remained with the children in his care during their deportation to Treblinka.

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Frank Irons

American long jumper and Olympian
Born
March 23rd, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1886, the athlete achieved recognition as a long jumper, competing in the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London. Captured the silver medal in the long jump event, contributing to the United States' track and field success during this period. Alongside Olympic participation, competed in various national events, showcasing notable skills in the sport.

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Harald Tammer

Journalist and Olympic weightlifter
Born
January 9th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 43 years old

Contributed to Estonian journalism through various articles and publications. Competed in weightlifting and represented Estonia at the 1924 Paris Olympics, achieving notable success in the sport. Engaged in promoting physical fitness and sports in Estonia, impacting the development of weightlifting in the region.

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Karel Doorman

Dutch admiral during World War II
Born
April 23rd, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 53 years old

Served as an admiral in the Royal Netherlands Navy during World War II. Commanded the naval forces of the Netherlands East Indies and played a crucial role in the Battle of the Java Sea. Known for leadership and strategic naval operations against Japanese forces. Emphasized the importance of naval power in protecting Dutch interests during the conflict. He died in action in 1942, becoming a symbol of Dutch naval bravery.

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José Abad Santos

Filipino Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
Born
February 19th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 56 years old

Served as the 5th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines from 1941 until his execution in 1942. Prior to this role, contributed as a prominent lawyer and jurist, focusing on legal reform and public service. Played a significant role in the establishment of the judiciary system in the Philippines during a tumultuous period of the country's history. Abad Santos was a member of the Philippine Assembly and actively engaged in governance and lawmaking.

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Jessie Bond

Mezzo-soprano in Gilbert and Sullivan operas
Born
January 10th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 89 years old

Engaged primarily with the comic operas of Gilbert and Sullivan, performed with prominent companies during the late 19th century. Specialized in mezzo-soprano roles, showcasing a distinctive vocal quality and comedic timing. Major contributions included roles in classic productions such as 'The Mikado' and 'H.M.S. Pinafore'. Regarded for extensive performances in England and at the Savoy Theatre, where many of these operas debuted and became popular.

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