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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Mary Engle Pennington

Bacteriological chemist and engineer
Born
October 8th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 80 years old

An American bacteriological chemist and refrigeration engineer contributed to food preservation and safety. Pennington studied at the University of Pennsylvania and later worked for the United States Department of Agriculture. Significant advancements in refrigeration technology and methods for food storage were influenced by her work. She was an advocate for the use of controlled temperature in food handling, which helped reduce foodborne illnesses. Pennington's research included studies on the bacterial content in food and how refrigeration could mitigate spoilage and health risks. She became a prominent figure in her field, especially as a woman in science during her time.

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Patrick Hastings

English lawyer and Attorney General
Born
March 17th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1880, a prominent English lawyer and politician served as Attorney General for England and Wales. Renowned for significant legal contributions during a transformative period in British law, played a crucial role in various high-profile cases. Elected as a Member of Parliament, actively participated in legislative processes and governmental affairs, contributing to the development of the justice system in the UK.

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Louis T. Wright

Surgeon and civil rights activist
Born
July 23rd, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 61 years old

Pioneered advancements in surgery and fought for civil rights. Served as the first African American member of the New York City Board of Health. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Harlem Hospital's surgical department, advocating for better healthcare access. Contributed to various medical societies and was involved in efforts to increase the representation of African Americans in medicine.

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Henriette Roland Holst

Dutch poet and playwright
Born
December 24th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1869, a prominent Dutch poet, playwright, and politician. Contributed to the literary scene through poetry encompassing themes of social justice and political activism. Active in left-wing politics, advocating for labor rights and women's suffrage. Involved with the socialist movement and published works that inspired political discourse.

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Tufty Mann

South African cricketer and player
Born
December 28th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 32 years old

A cricketer represented South Africa in Test matches from 1947 to 1957. Played as a right-handed batsman and a right-arm medium pace bowler. Appeared in 15 Test matches, scoring 552 runs with a top score of 146. Contributed to the team with 21 wickets, showcasing skills in both batting and bowling. Primarily played for the Northern Transvaal.

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