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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Hiranuma Kiichirō

Japanese Prime Minister and lawyer
Born
September 28th, 1867 157 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 35th Prime Minister of Japan from 1939 to 1940. Had a legal background, contributing to various legal reforms during the Taishō and Shōwa eras. Played a crucial role in national politics during a turbulent period in Japanese history.

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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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René Seyssaud

Provençal painter with landscape art
Born
June 16th, 1867 157 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1867, a Provençal painter emerged as a significant figure in the post-impressionist movement. Influenced by the natural beauty of his homeland, focused on capturing the landscapes and light of Provence using vibrant colors and bold brush strokes. Developed a unique style that reflected the essence of the region. Worked alongside other prominent artists, contributing to the artistic culture of the time. Exhibited in various galleries and established a reputation through solo exhibitions, which highlighted the beauty of the Mediterranean landscape.

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Vincent Scotto

French composer and actor
Born
April 21st, 1874 150 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 78 years old

A French composer and actor, significant contributions came in the realm of operetta and film music. Scotto's career spanned several decades, with a focus on light music and theatrical productions. In the early 20th century, he became a prolific figure in French musical theater, writing numerous operettas that gained popularity. His works often featured catchy melodies and engaging narratives, appealing to a broad audience. In addition to composing, Scotto also acted, participating in various productions that showcased his musical talents. His legacy includes a rich repertoire of works that influenced the development of French musical theatre.

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George Howells Broadhurst

Theater director and manager
Born
June 3rd, 1866 158 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 86 years old

Contributions to theater included directing and managing productions during the early 20th century. Achievements in playwriting also marked a significant aspect of the career. Broadhurst played a crucial role in the development and success of several theatrical works, showcasing talents in both direction and production management. Influencing trends in stage presentations, he was integral to the theater scene of the time.

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