What Happened This Year 1942

People Who Died in 1942

Paddy Finucane

Irish fighter pilot and flying ace
Born
October 16th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 22 years old

A celebrated fighter pilot, served in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Accumulated numerous aerial victories against enemy aircraft in the Battle of Britain. Became one of the leading aces of the conflict, showcasing exceptional skill and bravery in aerial combat. Finucane's flying prowess earned recognition, and he received the Distinguished Flying Cross for gallantry. His career was cut short when he was killed in action in 1942, but his legacy as one of the war's most effective pilots endures.

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Alfred Wallis

English painter and illustrator of seascapes
Born
August 18th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1855, a painter and illustrator emerged from Penzance, Cornwall. Specializing in maritime scenes, developed a distinctive style that utilized found materials. Work primarily consisted of naive and abstract interpretations of seascapes and fishing boats. Gained recognition later in life, particularly within the St. Ives School art movement. Exhibited alongside prominent artists and became notable for the vibrant colors and striking compositional techniques. Passed away in 1942, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of folk art.

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Janusz Korczak

Pediatrician and author of children's rights
Born
July 22nd, 1878 146 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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Albert Payson Terhune

American journalist and author
Born
December 21st, 1872 152 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 70 years old

A journalist and author, wrote numerous works, particularly focusing on the canine world. Terhune's most celebrated work is the series of books about dogs, especially 'Lad: A Dog', which showcases the bond between dogs and humans. Terhune also contributed articles to various magazines and served as an editor during his career. His writings often reflected personal experiences with dogs, blending storytelling with practical advice for dog owners.

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Moriz Seeler

German playwright and theatrical producer
Born
March 1st, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 46 years old

Born in Germany, significant contributions made to theatre through numerous plays and productions. Collaborated with prominent figures in the theatrical landscape of the early 20th century. Works often reflected contemporary social issues and were marked by innovative staging techniques. Produced and adapted works that resonated with audiences during critical periods in German history, particularly in the tumultuous years leading up to World War II. Later fled Germany due to rising political tensions, leading to a notable relocation that impacted career trajectory. Continued to influence theatre through writings and productions in various countries.

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Robert Bosch

Engineer, founder of Bosch GmbH
Born
September 23rd, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 81 years old

An engineer and businessman established a successful engineering company in Stuttgart, Germany. Founded Robert Bosch GmbH in 1886, a global supplier of technology and services. Pioneered innovations in the automotive industry, including ignition systems and fuel injection technology. Expanded operations across Europe and later globally, contributing significantly to industrial advancements. Advocated for social responsibility and employee welfare, influencing corporate practices.

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Valdemar Poulsen

Danish engineer and inventor of magnetic recording
Born
November 23rd, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 73 years old

An engineer developed the magnetic wire recorder, one of the first devices to record sound electrically. Introduced the first practical system for recording and reproducing sound using magnetism. This innovation laid the groundwork for later developments in audio technology. Worked on various inventions, including the Poulsen Arc, used in radio transmission and the development of early sound recording equipment.

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Heber Doust Curtis

American astronomer with Curtis-Shapley Debate
Born
June 27th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 70 years old

An American astronomer contributed significantly to the field of astronomy in the early 20th century. His influential work included studies on nebulae and the structure of the Milky Way. Curtis was involved in the Curtis-Shapley Debate, which centered on the size and composition of the Milky Way and the universe beyond. He served as the director of the Allegheny Observatory and was known for advocating the existence of numerous galaxies other than the Milky Way. Curtis also engaged in public outreach, promoting astronomy through lectures and publications.

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Walter Sickert

English painter and printmaker
Born
May 31st, 1860 164 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 82 years old

An English painter and printmaker associated with the Post-Impressionist movement, this artist's work displayed a focus on urban life and figures, often featuring scenes from music halls and interiors. Major exhibitions took place throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with contributions to the Camden Town Group, a collective of artists based in London. Works included notable pieces such as 'Ennui' and 'The Cat and the Moon', reflecting a blend of realism and modernism while exploring themes of social commentary and psychological depth. Sickert's teaching at the Westminster School of Art influenced a generation of artists, further establishing his legacy within the art community.

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