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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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'.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

George VI of the United Kingdom

King of the United Kingdom during WWII
Born
December 14th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 57 years old

Ascended the throne in December 1936 following the abdication of Edward VIII. Led the country during World War II, providing a symbol of British resolve. Worked to strengthen ties within the Commonwealth and had a focus on post-war recovery and rebuilding. His reign witnessed the transition of the United Kingdom from a colonial empire to a modern commonwealth. Passed away in February 1952, succeeded by his daughter, Elizabeth II.

Continue Reading

Charles Collett

Engineer and designer of locomotives
Born
September 10th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 81 years old

An engineer, key in the design and development of steam locomotives for the Great Western Railway. Collett joined the railway as a chief mechanical engineer and held the position from 1922 until retirement in 1941. Contributions included the creation of the Castle class locomotives which became a framework for future designs. His work improved efficiency and performance of trains during the steam era.

Continue Reading

Alexandrine of Mecklenburg-Schwerin

Queen of Denmark and Norway
Born
December 24th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1879, she served as the Queen Consort of Denmark and Norway through her marriage to King Christian X of Denmark. Her reign included the tumultuous period surrounding World War I, and she became an important figure in promoting national unity and welfare. She was actively involved in various charitable initiatives and cultural causes across both nations. Her commitment to public welfare and her royal duties marked her period as queen.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading