What Happened This Year 1962

People Who Died in 1962

George Preca

Maltese priest and saint
Born
February 12th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 82 years old

A Maltese priest who founded the Society of Christian Doctrine, dedicated to religious education. Preca was ordained as a priest in 1906 and began his mission to educate young people in the faith, leveraging various methods including the use of biblical teachings. His efforts contributed to the spiritual development of many in Malta. In 1947, Preca received the title of Servant of God, and in 2007, he was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, recognizing his commitment to education and spirituality.

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G. M. Trevelyan

Historian and academic of British history
Born
February 16th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 86 years old

Engaged in historical writing and scholarship, contributing significantly to the understanding of British history through extensive works. Served as a professor and maintained an influential presence in historical academia. Authored several notable books, which examined major historical periods and events. Involved in various educational and scholarly activities, influencing historical thought and study.

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Archduke Joseph August of Austria

Austrian Archduke and military leader
Born
August 9th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1872, served in the Austro-Hungarian military. Achieved the rank of General and commanded troops during World War I. Contributed to military strategies and participated in various campaigns. After the war, became involved in cultural and historical preservation efforts in Austria. Actively engaged in the restoration of the family’s historical properties, promoting heritage and community involvement.

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Per Thorén

Figure Skater, Olympic Competitor
Born
January 26th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 77 years old

Born in Sweden in 1885, the figure skater competed in men's singles events. Participated in the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London, marking a significant point in the history of the sport. The competition provided a platform for showcasing skills and techniques in figure skating, contributing to the early development of the discipline in competitive sports. Represented Sweden at the international level.

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Olga Preobrajenska

Russian ballerina and choreographer
Born
January 21st, 1871 154 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1871, this celebrated ballerina trained at the Imperial Ballet School in St. Petersburg. She performed as a principal dancer with the Mariinsky Theatre, captivating audiences with exceptional technique and artistry. Later, she became a prominent teacher, influencing the next generation of dancers. As a choreographer, innovative works showcased her unique style and approach to ballet. In the early 20th century, she toured extensively, gaining recognition in Europe and the United States. Her contributions to ballet education have had lasting effects on the discipline.

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C. Wright Mills

American sociologist and author of 'The Sociological Imagination'
Born
August 28th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 46 years old

Born in 1916, a prominent American sociologist focused on the interplay between individual experiences and broader social forces. Utilized the term 'sociological imagination' to encourage understanding of societal structures and their effects on personal lives. Authored several influential books, including 'The Power Elite' and 'White Collar'. Contributed scholarly work on social stratification and bureaucratic structures in modern society. His writings often criticized the limitations of existing sociological methods and advocated for a more critical perspective on social issues.

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Emil Artin

Mathematician known for algebraic number theory
Born
March 3rd, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 64 years old

Born in Austria in 1898, this mathematician made significant contributions to algebraic number theory, particularly in the theory of ideals. Artin developed the Artin reciprocity law, a fundamental result in algebraic number theory which generalizes the classical reciprocity laws of quadratic fields. After fleeing Europe during World War II, he settled in the United States, where he continued his academic career and influences at institutions such as Princeton University. His work influenced modern mathematics and paved the way for future developments in number theory and algebra.

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Jimmy Hunter

Rugby player for New Zealand
Born
March 6th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 83 years old

Born in New Zealand in 1879, a rugby player recognized for contributions to the sport in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Represented the national team, participating in the inaugural test matches of New Zealand rugby. Played as a forward and was part of the early development of the game in the country. Gained attention for skills on the field during a formative period for rugby in New Zealand.

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René Coty

French politician and 17th President
Born
March 20th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 80 years old

A lawyer by profession, held key political roles in France. Served as the 17th President from 1954 to 1959 during the Fourth Republic. Oversaw critical phases including the end of the Algerian War and the establishment of the Fifth Republic. Instrumental in transitioning France's political landscape amidst post-war challenges.

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