What Happened This Year 1952

Born in 1952

Kerry Fraser

Ice hockey referee and sportscaster
Born
May 30th, 1952 72 years ago

Career spanned over three decades as an NHL referee. Officiated in over 1,900 regular season games and more than 300 playoff games. Notable for officiating in the Stanley Cup Finals. Transitioned to sportscasting after retirement, providing analysis and commentary on various sports networks. Recognized for contributions to the sport and officiating community.

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Karl Bartos

German musician and Kraftwerk member
Born
May 31st, 1952 72 years ago

A significant figure in electronic music, a musician and songwriter contributed to the pioneering sound of Kraftwerk, a band that reshaped popular music with its innovative use of synthesizers. Bartos played keyboards and contributed to the songwriting process, helping define the band's distinctive style. The album 'The Man-Machine' received critical acclaim and showcased a blend of man and technology, featuring tracks that have influenced numerous genres. After leaving Kraftwerk, Bartos pursued a solo career, releasing albums like 'Communication' and 'Electric Music' which continued to explore electronic sounds.

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Şenol Güneş

Football manager and World Cup coach
Born
June 1st, 1952 72 years ago

Coached the Turkish national football team during the 2002 FIFA World Cup, leading them to a third-place finish. Played as a goalkeeper primarily for Trabzonspor, winning multiple Turkish league titles. Transitioned to management after retirement, achieving success with various clubs, including guiding Beşiktaş to multiple Süper Lig titles and the 2017 Turkish Cup.

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Mihaela Loghin

Romanian shot putter Olympic medalist
Born
June 1st, 1952 72 years ago

Competed in shot put at an elite level, achieving significant success in the 1980s. Won a silver medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics held in Los Angeles. Set multiple national records throughout the career and earned several titles in European competitions. Represented Romania in numerous international events.

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Gary Bettman

NHL Commissioner during expansion era
Born
June 2nd, 1952 72 years ago

Served as the 14th Commissioner of the National Hockey League since 1993. Played a significant role in the growth of the NHL, overseeing multiple expansions and the introduction of new franchises. Implemented various changes and strategies to increase the popularity and visibility of ice hockey, including media deals and global outreach programs. Played a crucial part in the creation of the NHL salary cap and the implementation of rule changes aimed at improving the pace and scoring of games.

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Bronisław Komorowski

Historian and 5th President of Poland
Born
June 4th, 1952 72 years ago

Served as the 5th President of Poland from 2010 to 2015. Actively participated in Polish politics since the late 1980s, contributing to the democratic transition of the country. Prior to the presidency, held the position of Marshal of the Sejm, the lower house of the Polish parliament. Engaged in historical research and published works focusing on modern Polish history, enhancing public understanding of the past.

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Dambudzo Marechera

Zimbabwean author and poet
Born
June 4th, 1952 72 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 35 years old

An influential writer from Zimbabwe, this author gained prominence for addressing themes of colonialism, identity, and post-colonial struggles. Works include 'The House of Hunger,' a semi-autobiographical novel that is considered a landmark in African literature. This writer's style combined elements of surrealism and realism, and was known for a unique narrative voice that challenged literary conventions. Alongside novels, poetry also featured prominently in this author's oeuvre, contributing significantly to the literary landscape of Zimbabwe.

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Carole Fredericks

Singer and songwriter, best known for 'The Big Easy'.
Born
June 5th, 1952 72 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1952, extensive career as a singer and songwriter encompassed various genres, including pop and rock. Gained prominence in the 1980s, particularly noted for contributions to the soundtrack of the film 'The Big Easy'. Collaborated with artists such as Eric Clapton and recorded several albums. Lived and worked in both the United States and France, where strong following developed due to performances and recordings. Involved in promoting cultural exchange between American and French music scenes.

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Nicko McBrain

Drummer for Iron Maiden, renowned songwriter
Born
June 5th, 1952 72 years ago

A prominent drummer and songwriter, contributed significantly to the heavy metal band Iron Maiden since joining in 1982. Instrumental in defining the band's sound through innovative drumming techniques and dynamic performances. Has also participated in various side projects and collaborations, showcasing versatility in music. Maintained a strong presence in the music industry, often associated with energetic live shows and iconic recordings.

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