What Happened This Year 1942

Born in 1942

Louis Falco

Dancer and choreographer of Falco Works
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1993 31 years ago — 51 years old

A prominent dancer and choreographer, contributions included innovative choreography for various dance companies. Established a distinctive style that blended elements of modern dance and theatrical performance. Worked with renowned companies and produced original works that showcased his artistic vision. Served as a faculty member at notable institutions where teachings inspired future generations of dancers. Advocated for the importance of dance in education and culture, influencing the development of contemporary choreography.

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Jonathan V. Plaut

Rabbi and author
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2012 12 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a prominent rabbi and authored numerous works on Jewish thought and practice. Played a significant role in interfaith dialogue and community engagement. Had a notable career in Jewish education and leadership, influencing many through sermons and writings. Contributed to various publications focusing on religious themes and community development.

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Blackjack Mulligan

Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2016 8 years ago — 74 years old

An American professional wrestler and wrestling promoter, gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s under the ring name Blackjack Mulligan. Competed in several wrestling promotions, including the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF) and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Known for a distinctive persona that combined size, athleticism, and charisma. Shared the ring with numerous legendary wrestlers and earned a reputation as a tag team wrestler with partners such as Blackjack Lanza. In addition to wrestling, contributed to the wrestling industry as a promoter and trainer, influencing future wrestlers.

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Jerry Grote

Baseball player and All-Star catcher
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2024 0 years ago — 82 years old

A professional baseball player, primarily played as a catcher during a career that spanned from 1962 to 1972. Most of the career was spent with the New York Mets, contributing to the team's first World Series championship in 1969. Also played for the Houston Astros and the Chicago White Sox. Recognized for defensive skills and strong leadership on the field, earned a spot in the MLB All-Star Game in 1970.

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Andrew Kohut

Political Scientist and Academic Leader
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2015 9 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent political scientist and academic, contributed significantly to the understanding of public opinion and political behavior. Served as the founding director of the Pew Research Center and directed the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press, focusing on survey research and media analysis. Authored numerous studies about American politics and media trends, providing insights into electoral behaviors and audience reach over several decades. Participated in discussions about the role of polling and public opinion in shaping politics.

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Ivan Mackerle

Czech cryptozoologist and explorer
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 71 years old

An explorer and author primarily focused on cryptozoology. Conducted numerous expeditions, searching for undiscovered animals and studying folklore pertaining to mythical creatures. Authored several books detailing findings and theories related to cryptozoological subjects. Engaged in research that involved travels to various remote locations and interviewing local populations about legendary animals.

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Pap Cheyassin Secka

Gambian lawyer and 8th Attorney General
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2012 12 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the Attorney General of The Gambia, focusing on legal reforms and governance. Played a key role in the establishment of legal frameworks during a period of significant political transition. Contributed to various legal initiatives aimed at improving the judicial system.

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Danny Williams

South African singer with hit songs
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2005 19 years ago — 63 years old

A South African singer gained recognition in the 1960s and 1970s for a distinctive voice and emotive performances. Achieved notable success with the song "Moonlight Affair," which became a hit in several countries. His music blended genres, appealing to a wide audience. In addition to a flourishing music career, contributed significantly to the South African music scene, influencing future generations of artists.

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Uğur Mumcu

Turkish investigative journalist
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1993 32 years ago — 51 years old

Pursued a career in journalism primarily focusing on investigative reporting. Worked for several Turkish publications and became prominent for uncovering political corruption and human rights abuses within Turkey. His work often pointed to connections between the government and illegal activities. Shortly before death, was investigating arms trafficking and the deep state in Turkey. Assassinated in a car bombing in 1993, which raised significant national and international concerns regarding freedom of the press.

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