What Happened This Year 1952

People Who Died in 1952

Patrick Joseph Hartigan

Australian priest and author
Born
October 13th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1952 72 years ago — 74 years old

A priest in the Australian Catholic Church, contributed significantly to literature and poetry. Hartigan is well regarded for writing under the pen name 'John O'Brien', producing works that reflect Australian life and experiences. The poetry collections often depicted themes of faith, culture, and landscape. His most notable work, 'Around the Boree Log', includes poems that resonate with rural and pastoral settings of Australia. The collection remains celebrated for its authenticity and lyrical quality.

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Fletcher Henderson

American jazz bandleader and composer
Born
December 18th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1952 72 years ago — 55 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of big band jazz in the 1920s and 1930s. Pioneered the use of arrangements in jazz music, helping to transform the genre from small ensembles to larger orchestral sounds. Led the Fletcher Henderson Orchestra, which featured prominent musicians of the era, including Louis Armstrong and Coleman Hawkins. Collaborated with Bessie Smith, providing arrangements for her recordings. Played a crucial role in popularizing swing music, bridging the gap between jazz and dance music.

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Beryl Rubinstein

Pianist with significant teaching contributions
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1952 72 years ago — 54 years old

An accomplished pianist and composer, contributions focused on music education and performance. Engaged in teaching at various institutions, shaping the skills of future musicians. Composed numerous works for piano, showcasing a blend of technical proficiency and artistic expression. Performed widely, gaining recognition within the classical music community. Contributions included engaging students and audiences through interpretation and pedagogy.

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Frank Borzage

American film director notable for romance
Born
April 23rd, 1893 131 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1962 62 years ago — 69 years old

Active in the early to mid-20th century, contributed to the film industry as a director and actor. Directed films during the silent and sound eras, particularly recognized for romantic dramas. Notable works include 'Seventh Heaven', 'The Mortal Storm', and 'History is Made at Night'. Won two Academy Awards for Best Director, first for 'Bad Girl' and second for 'The Great Ziegfeld'.

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Enrique Jardiel Poncela

Spanish playwright and novelist, key works
Born
October 15th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 51 years old

Contributed to the 20th-century Spanish theater through the creation of comedies that blended humor with social critique. His works frequently explored themes of love and fate within a surreal framework. Achieved significant recognition with plays such as 'Eloísa está debajo de un almendro' and 'Los ojos de Anita,' which showcased a unique style and witty dialogue. Also authored novels that expressed his comedic sensibilities, including 'La tortuga gigante.'

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José Vicente de Freitas

Portuguese Colonel and Prime Minister
Born
January 22nd, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 83 years old

Held the position of Prime Minister of Portugal during a crucial period. Served as a colonel in the Portuguese Army, contributing to military efforts in various conflicts. His political career included significant involvement in shaping policies of the time, influencing both military and civil governance.

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Georg Schumann

German composer and conductor
Born
October 25th, 1866 158 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1866, a significant figure in the music scene, particularly in Berlin. Schumann engaged in composing a variety of works, including orchestral, chamber, and vocal music. He was deeply connected to the music education community, serving as a teacher and contributing to music organizations. During his career, he championed the works of contemporary composers and played a role in the promotion of new music.

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Goscombe John

Sculptor and academic renowned for monument work
Born
February 21st, 1860 165 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 92 years old

Goscombe John was a Welsh-English sculptor and academic recognized for creating commemorative works and public sculptures. John studied at the Royal Academy Schools and became a prominent figure in the British sculpture movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His works include notable monuments like the statue of the Welsh poet Dafydd ap Gwilym located in Cardiff. He also created memorials for the First World War, reflecting a deep engagement with national identity and history. In addition to his sculptural practice, he was active in art education, contributing to the training of future generations of artists.

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Thomas Hicks

American Olympic marathon runner
Born
January 11th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 76 years old

Competed in the 1904 St. Louis Olympics, winning the marathon event. During the race, faced harsh weather conditions and endured a controversial finish. After completion, became recognized as the first American to win an Olympic marathon.

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