What Happened This Year 1962

People Who Died in 1962

Harry Barris

American singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1962 62 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent figure in American music during the early 20th century, contributions included the classic song 'Ain't She Sweet' written in 1927. Served as a pianist for notable bands and collaborated with various artists throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Established a reputation in the jazz community for exceptional skill on the piano and vocalist capabilities. Continued to perform and record music until his passing in 1962.

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Charles Laughton

Actor and director, celebrated for 'Witness for the Prosecution'
Born
July 1st, 1899 125 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1962 62 years ago — 63 years old

An English-American actor and director, contributions to film and theater are notable. Laughton received acclaim for portraying complex characters, particularly in the film adaptations of literary works. Directed films showcasing his vision, particularly 'The Night of the Hunter'. His performance in 'Witness for the Prosecution' earned a nomination for an Academy Award, solidifying his status in cinematic history. Laughton's theater work included significant performances in London and New York, reflecting a deep commitment to the craft of acting.

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Thomas Mitchell

Actor, singer, screenwriter; Stagecoach
Born
July 11th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1962 62 years ago — 70 years old

An American actor, singer, and screenwriter, recognized for a prolific career in film, television, and theater. Appeared in the 1939 Western film 'Stagecoach,' playing the character Doc Boone, which became a significant part of cinematic history. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role in 'The Heirs of Rassendyll' in 1931. His work in multiple genres earned acclaim and led to enduring popularity.

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Ross McLarty

Australian politician, 17th Premier
Born
March 17th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1962 62 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the 17th Premier of Western Australia from 1947 to 1953. Played a significant role in the development of post-war Western Australia, overseeing economic growth and infrastructure projects. Worked on policies regarding land development and social welfare. Contributed to the political landscape during a transformative period in Australian history.

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Wilhelm Ackermann

German mathematician and logician
Born
March 29th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1962 62 years ago — 66 years old

A mathematician and logician, contributions included work on mathematical logic and the foundations of mathematics. Developed the Ackermann function, an important example in the theory of computable functions. Worked on model theory and was a professor at various universities throughout Germany. His research laid groundwork for future developments in both logic and computer science.

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Eveline Adelheid von Maydell

Illustrator, created children's books
Born
May 19th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1962 62 years ago — 72 years old

Born in Germany and later emigrating to the United States, an illustrator focused on children's literature. Worked with notable publishers, illustrating numerous picture books and stories aimed at young audiences. Developed a unique style that engaged children and effectively conveyed stories through art. Contributed illustrations to various well-regarded children's books, allowing for the growth of visual storytelling in literature.

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Ted Husing

American sportscaster and broadcaster
Born
November 27th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent sportscaster in the early to mid-20th century, Husing gained recognition for his work in radio and television. He became a fixture in sports broadcasting, lending his voice to numerous events. His career included covering significant moments in sports history, specifically in boxing and baseball. Husing's commentary reached wide audiences during a time when few had the opportunity to experience live sports through the radio. His lively style and ability to convey the drama of sporting events contributed to the popularity of sports broadcasting during his era.

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Morris Louis

American painter of Color Field art
Born
November 28th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 50 years old

A major figure in the Color Field movement, this painter developed a distinctive style characterized by the use of poured paint on large canvases. Early works featured symbols and rectangular forms, but the later canvas works exhibited a more fluidity of color and shape. The artist's techniques were influential in the post-World War II abstract painting scene. This painter was associated with the Washington Color School and contributed to the movement's emphasis on the interaction of color and light.

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Samuel Cate Prescott

Microbiologist and chemist, published research
Born
April 5th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1872, a microbiologist and chemist specialized in fermentation and the study of microorganisms. Conducted extensive research on bacterial fermentation processes and their applications in food preservation. Contributed significantly to the understanding of yeast and its role in brewing and baking. Associated with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where significant work on fermentative processes was conducted. Published numerous scientific papers that advanced the field of microbiology, influencing both academic research and practical applications.

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