What Happened This Year 1972

Historical Events from This Year 1972 (View all 129)

Crime & Law

Rose Heilbron Becomes First Female Judge at Old Bailey

January 4th, 1972 53 years ago

Rose Heilbron made history as the first woman to serve as a judge at the Old Bailey, London's famed central criminal court, in 1972. Appointed after an extensive career in law, she represented a significant breakthrough for women in the judiciary. Her appointment not only marked a change in the landscape of legal professions but also served as an inspiration for future generations of female lawyers and judges. Heilbron was known for her commitment to justice and her ability to handle complex cases, bringing a new perspective to the traditionally male-dominated judicial system.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

Nixon Introduces the Space Shuttle Program

January 5th, 1972 53 years ago

Richard Nixon announced the Space Shuttle program, aiming to enhance America’s space capabilities and reduce the costs of space travel. This ambitious initiative was designed to create a reusable spacecraft that could carry astronauts and cargo into orbit. The plan represented a strategic shift in U.S. space policy, moving from a focus solely on Apollo lunar missions to a broader scope that included sustained human presence in space. The announcement took place at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, emphasizing commitments to advance technology and collaboration in the space field.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Iberia Flight 602 plane crash near Ibiza

January 7th, 1972 53 years ago

Iberia Flight 602, a commercial aircraft, crashed shortly before landing at Ibiza Airport, resulting in the loss of all 104 passengers and crew members on board. The tragedy unfolded in cloudy weather conditions, triggering a significant investigation into safety measures. The aircraft was a Douglas DC-8, and while attempts were made to divert due to the weather, the flight ultimately failed to reach the airport safely.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Release of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman from Prison

January 8th, 1972 53 years ago

Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, the President of Pakistan, conceded to international pressure by releasing Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the prominent Bengali leader and founder of Bangladesh, who had been imprisoned following the Bangladesh Liberation War. This decision was part of diplomatic negotiations following the recent conflict. The release, which occurred in the climate of reconciliation, aimed at stabilizing relations between Pakistan and the newly independent Bangladesh, while also addressing concerns from global powers advocating for human rights and political resolution.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's Historic Return

January 10th, 1972 53 years ago

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman returned to Bangladesh as president after being imprisoned in Pakistan for over nine months. His arrival was a significant moment in the newly independent country, generating immense enthusiasm among the people. It marked the first time he was reunited with his supporters following the Liberation War. Crowds gathered in the capital, Dhaka, to celebrate his return and acclaim him as their leader.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

East Pakistan Becomes Bangladesh Officially

January 11th, 1972 53 years ago

On November 1, 1972, East Pakistan officially changed its name to Bangladesh. This renaming came after a brutal struggle for independence from Pakistan and the subsequent liberation. Following the independence war, the new government led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman sought to establish a distinct national identity through the name change, symbolizing unity and national pride for the Bengali people, who had fought for cultural and political autonomy. The new name also aimed to sever ties with the former political regime perceived as oppressive.

Continue Reading

Born in 1972 (View all 628)

Lilian Thuram

Football player, 1998 World Cup Champion
Born
January 1st, 1972 53 years ago

Born in 1972, a French footballer enjoyed a successful career primarily as a defender. Played for clubs such as AS Monaco, Parma, and FC Barcelona. Was a key member of the France national team during the late 1990s and early 2000s, participating in two UEFA European Championships and the FIFA World Cup. Achievements included winning the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the UEFA Euro 2000. Post-retirement, involvement in activism, focusing on racism and education.

Continue Reading

Rodney MacDonald

Canadian educator and politician
Born
January 2nd, 1972 53 years ago

An educator and politician, served as the 26th Premier of Nova Scotia from 2006 to 2009. Entered politics as a member of the Progressive Conservative Party. Prior to premiership, held the position of Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. Focused on educational reform and economic development during time in office.

Continue Reading

Mattias Norström

Ice hockey player and team manager
Born
January 2nd, 1972 53 years ago

A professional ice hockey player and manager, contributed significantly to both club and national teams. Played primarily as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL), with the Los Angeles Kings and the New York Rangers. Represented Sweden in international competitions, including the IIHF World Championship and the Winter Olympics. Transitioned into a management role after retirement, overseeing player development and operations.

Continue Reading

Shiraz Minwalla

Theoretical physicist in string theory
Born
January 2nd, 1972 53 years ago

An Indian theoretical physicist specialized in string theory. Contributed to the understanding of quantum field theory and its connections to string theory. Worked extensively on topics related to holography and gauge-gravity duality. Published numerous papers on theoretical physics and collaborated with other physicists in the field. Engaged in academic teaching and research at various institutions.

Continue Reading

Sakis Rouvas

Greek singer-songwriter and actor
Born
January 5th, 1972 53 years ago

A prominent figure in the Greek music scene, the individual began a career in the early 1990s. The music repertoire includes pop and traditional Greek songs, leading to several successful albums. The individual also ventured into acting, participating in various television series and films. Recognized for vibrant performances and stage presence, the individual represented Greece at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2004 with the song "Shake It."

Continue Reading

Donald Brashear

Ice hockey player and fighter
Born
January 7th, 1972 53 years ago

Played professional ice hockey primarily in the NHL, recognized for playing as a left winger. Competed for teams including the Montreal Canadiens, Philadelphia Flyers, and New York Rangers. Transitioned to mixed martial arts, participating in several bouts. Achieved a reputation as an enforcer in ice hockey noted for physical play and toughness on the ice.

Continue Reading

People Who Died in 1972 (View all 230)

Maurice Chevalier

French actor and singer in musicals
Born
September 12th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1972 53 years ago — 83 years old

Born in France, a prominent actor and singer became a leading figure in musical films during the early to mid-20th century. The career began in vaudeville, eventually transitioning to films in the 1920s. Achieved high recognition for performances in movies such as "The Love Parade" and "Gigi." Received an Academy Award nomination for his role in "The Road to Rio." Renowned for trademark style and wide-ranging repertoire which brought charm and sophistication to performances. Continued to perform into his later years, bridging the gap between traditional entertainment and the modern era.

Continue Reading

Mohan Rakesh

Indian author and acclaimed playwright
Born
January 8th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1972 53 years ago — 46 years old

A prominent figure in Indian literature, significant contributions included plays and novels that explored societal themes and human emotions. The author became an influential member of the modern Hindi literary movement. Several works received critical acclaim for their incisive portrayal of contemporary issues. Major literary achievements included the play 'Ashadh ka Ek Din', which is celebrated for its innovative narrative style and character development. Rakesh's literary prowess extended to fiction, where novels reflected the complexities of human relationships and societal structures.

Continue Reading

Chen Yi

Chinese general and politician
Born
August 26th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1972 53 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a general in the People's Liberation Army during the Chinese Civil War. Became the second Foreign Minister of the People's Republic of China from 1958 to 1972. Participated in various military campaigns and played a significant role in the establishment of the People's Republic. Contributed to foreign policy during a crucial period in China's international relations.

Continue Reading

John Berryman

Poet and scholar of modern literature
Born
October 25th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1972 53 years ago — 57 years old

Acclaimed as a significant American poet, contributions spanned from the mid-20th century until death in 1972. Works included the influential 'The Dream Songs,' a collection that showcased innovative use of form and voice. Engaged in academia, teaching at institutions such as the University of Minnesota, and explored themes of personal and cultural identity through intricate verse.

Continue Reading

Ted Shawn

Choreographer of modern dance
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1972 53 years ago — 81 years old

A pioneer in modern dance, this individual co-founded the Denishawn School of Dancing and Oriental Art with Ruth St. Denis, which was influential in the development of American dance. This choreographer established a male dance company, Ted Shawn and His Men Dancers, highlighting male performers in a field predominantly occupied by women. A significant figure in the early 20th century, he created numerous works that showcased the cultural significance of dance. This choreographer also contributed to dance education, promoting the art form in scientific and athletic contexts.

Continue Reading

Aksel Larsen

Danish politician and lawyer
Born
August 5th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1972 53 years ago — 74 years old

A significant figure in Danish politics, particularly active during the 20th century. Played a vital role in the Danish Communist Party and was influential in shaping its policies. Served as a member of the Folketing, the Danish Parliament, from 1945 to 1968, where contributions to various legislative efforts were made. Advocated for workers' rights and social justice throughout the political career.

Continue Reading