What Happened This Year 1962

People Who Died in 1962

Émile Wegelin

French rower and Olympic medalist
Born
December 24th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 87 years old

Competed in rowing during the early 20th century. Achieved significant success at the 1900 Summer Olympics held in Paris, winning a bronze medal in the men's coxed fours event. Participated in various rowing competitions in France, establishing a reputation in the sport. Contributed to the development of rowing in France during a time of growing interest in athletic competition. Continued to support rowing events and nurtured upcoming talent in the sport.

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O.S. Natalia Goncharova

Russian painter and costume designer
Born
June 21st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1881, a prominent figure in the Russian avant-garde movement, contributed significantly to the development of modern art. Worked across several artistic disciplines including painting, costume design, and illustration. Played a crucial role in the establishment of Rayonism, an art movement that emphasized the use of color and light in expressing dynamic motion. Participated in the groundbreaking Donkey's Tail exhibition in 1912, which showcased avant-garde artists. Created set designs for Diaghilev's Ballets Russes, influencing theatrical aesthetics in early 20th-century Europe.

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Justin Catayée

French soldier and politician
Born
May 30th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 46 years old

Served as a soldier in World War II, participating in significant military actions. Later transitioned to a political career, representing interests pertaining to veterans and military affairs. Held various governmental positions, contributing to legislation affecting military personnel. Continued to advocate for the rights and recognition of soldiers throughout life.

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David van Embden

Dutch economist and politician
Born
October 22nd, 1875 150 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 87 years old

An economist and politician who played a significant role in Dutch politics during the early 20th century. A member of the Dutch Labour Party, served in various political capacities, contributing to economic and social reforms. Held a position in the Dutch House of Representatives and participated in discussions shaping economic policies. Active in promoting workers' rights and welfare programs. Engaged in international economic discourse, representing the Netherlands at various conferences.

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Shunroku Hata

Japanese field marshal and politician
Born
July 26th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 83 years old

Held the position of Minister of War during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Served in various military roles throughout a career in the Imperial Japanese Army, rising to the rank of field marshal. Played a significant part in Japan's military operations in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. After the war, contributed to the post-war political landscape as a member of the Japanese government.

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A. E. Douglass

American astronomer known for dendrochronology
Born
July 5th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 95 years old

An astronomer contributed significantly to the understanding of climate dynamics through the study of tree rings, a field known as dendrochronology. Developed methods to accurately date wooden artifacts and understand historical climate variations, providing insights into past climates and their impact on human activities. Established the Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research at the University of Arizona, which advanced research in the field and trained numerous students. Engaged in astronomical research related to the timing of solar and lunar cycles as well.

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Korneli Kekelidze

Georgian philologist and scholar
Born
April 18th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent philologist and scholar from Georgia, Kekelidze contributed significantly to the study of the Georgian language and literature. Engaged in research, he worked on preserving and promoting Georgian cultural heritage. His efforts laid the groundwork for future scholars in the field of linguistics and literary studies. His studies often focused on the historical and structural aspects of the language, influencing education and scholarship in Georgia. Throughout the academic career, he published extensively and participated in various scholarly endeavors that highlighted the richness of Georgian literature.

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Eugene Houdry

Mechanical engineer and inventor of catalyst
Born
April 18th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 70 years old

A mechanical engineer and inventor, contributed significantly to the field of catalytic cracking. Developed the Houdry catalytic cracking process, which revolutionized oil refining and increased gasoline production efficiency. Founded the Houdry Process Corporation, which commercialized the catalytic process. Emigrated from France to the United States during the 1920s, where innovations promoted advancements in petroleum refining technology.

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Alan L. Hart

Physician and author
Born
October 4th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 72 years old

A physician and author engaged in significant contributions to both medicine and literature. Pioneered research in tuberculosis and developed treatment protocols that transformed patient care. Authored numerous medical articles and books, including works that combined fiction with health-related themes. Advocated for the rights and recognition of trans individuals in a time of widespread discrimination. His life and work provided essential insights into both medical practice and social issues of gender identity.

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