What Happened This Year 1952

Born in 1952

Jack Wild

English actor, The Cowardly Lion
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
March 1st, 2006 19 years ago — 54 years old

An English actor gained prominence in the late 1960s for a leading role in the musical film 'Oliver!', portraying the character of The Artful Dodger. Achievements in television include a role in the series 'The Ghosts of Buxley Hall'. Wild's early success earned him a nomination for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Later career featured performances in various stage productions and TV roles. Struggled with personal challenges in later years.

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Anthony Pawson

Biologist and chemist known for research
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2013 11 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent figure in the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology, notable contributions included research on signal transduction and protein interactions. Served as a professor at the University of Toronto, advancing the understanding of cellular signaling pathways. Influenced scientific discourse through published articles in prestigious journals. His pioneering work on the SH2 domain has been fundamental in elucidating the mechanisms of signal transduction in cells.

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Connie Chiume

South African actress and filmmaker
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2024 0 years ago — 72 years old

An accomplished actress and filmmaker, contributions include work in television and film in South Africa. Gained prominence for roles in productions such as 'Gomora' and 'Black Panther'. Additionally, was involved in various theater productions, showcasing talent in performance arts. Received recognition for her efforts in advancing South African film and acting, participating in both local and international projects.

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Mipham Chokyi Lodro

Tibetan lama and educator
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2014 10 years ago — 62 years old

Served as a prominent figure in Tibetan Buddhism, Mipham Chokyi Lodro taught and guided many students in spiritual practices and philosophy. Contributed to the preservation and dissemination of Tibetan teachings. Played a significant role in promoting education and understanding of Tibetan culture and religion. His teachings emphasized the importance of compassion and wisdom.

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Zelimkhan Yandarbiyev

Chechen politician, 2nd President of Ichkeria
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 52 years old

A politician served as the second President of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria from 1997 to 1998. Yandarbiyev played a significant role during the Chechen conflicts, advocating for Chechnya's independence from Russia. Following the conflicts, he became an opponent of Russian policies regarding Chechnya, contributing to the Chechen separatist movement. Exiled in various countries due to political tensions, his leadership was marked by a commitment to Chechen self-determination and governance. Yandarbiyev was assassinated in Qatar in 2004.

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Breece D'J Pancake

Short story writer of 'Islands'
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1979 45 years ago — 27 years old

A significant figure in American literature, this short story writer produced a distinctive body of work that captures the complexities of life in rural West Virginia. The writing style combined stark realism with lyrical prose, often exploring themes of isolation and human longing. The collection 'Islands' contains many powerful narratives that showcase the writer's unique voice and perspective. Despite a brief life, the stories contributed to the Southern Gothic literary tradition and earned a place in the canon of American literature.

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Lee Brilleaux

Musician; frontman of Dr. Feelgood
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1994 30 years ago — 42 years old

An English singer-songwriter and guitarist played a key role in the pub rock scene of the 1970s. As the frontman of the band Dr. Feelgood, produced a gritty and energetic style that helped define the genre. The band's debut album, 'Down by the Jetty,' showcased a raw sound that captured the attention of audiences and critics alike. Known for the signature song 'Milk and Alcohol,' which highlighted the band's influence in the rhythm and blues revival. Continued to perform and record with the band until his death in 1994, leaving a lasting legacy in British rock music.

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Ray Sharkey

Actor in The Idolmaker and Wiseguy
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1993 31 years ago — 41 years old

An American actor gained recognition for performances in film and television. Starred in the film 'The Idolmaker' (1980), which earned a Golden Globe nomination. Featured in the television series 'Wiseguy' in the late 1980s, showcasing talent in portraying complex characters. Established a reputation for impactful roles across various genres during the 1970s and 1980s.

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Bill Stewart

American football coach, West Virginia University
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2012 12 years ago — 60 years old

Coached a college football team and led the program to notable success. Served as the head coach for West Virginia University from 2008 to 2012. Achieved a winning record during tenure and secured a victory in the 2012 Orange Bowl against Clemson. His coaching career included prior positions at several universities, contributing to the development of various players in college football.

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