What Happened This Year 1972
People Who Died in 1972
Turk Broda
Born in 1914, a prominent ice hockey player and coach contributed significantly to the sport. Played as a goaltender for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1936 to 1952, achieving considerable success. Secured five Stanley Cup championships with the Maple Leafs in the years 1942, 1945, 1947, 1948, and 1949. Transitioned into coaching, leading teams in various leagues. After retiring from playing, continued to influence the game through a coaching career that helped develop future players and strategies.
Continue ReadingHarlow Shapley
Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy through research on the structure and size of the Milky Way galaxy. Served as the director of the Mount Wilson Observatory and later the Director of the Harvard College Observatory. Developed methods to determine the distances of stars, leading to a better understanding of the universe's scale. Advocated for science education and popularization of astronomy.
Continue ReadingJames K. Baxter
A prominent New Zealand poet and writer, contributed significantly to New Zealand literature. Engagement in theological themes and social commentary characterized much of his work. Baxter's poetry often reflected his deep understanding of the human experience, societal issues, and spiritual insights. He founded the Iona Community, aiming to blend spirituality with social awareness. His literary works include '24 Poems,' 'The Trees Are Alive,' and 'Some Unhistoric Poet,' which highlight his unique voice and perspective in New Zealand's cultural landscape.
Continue ReadingClaire Windsor
An actress with a significant career in silent films, starred in major productions such as 'The Deaf Mute' and 'The Love Light'. In the 1920s, featured in numerous films that showcased her talent and beauty. Transitioned to talkies but maintained a lower profile in later years. Also worked on the stage and appeared in a few early sound films, continuing to perform in smaller roles into the 1930s and 1940s.
Continue ReadingJackie Robinson
A significant figure in baseball history, this player broke Major League Baseball's color barrier in 1947. Playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers, he was the first African American to play in the league in the modern era. Over ten seasons, he garnered numerous accolades, showcasing exceptional skills while also being a pivotal figure in the fight for civil rights. After retiring from baseball, he became a sportscaster, furthering his influence in athletics and society.
Continue ReadingJohnny Mantz
Competed professionally as a race car driver during the mid-20th century. Achieved significant success in the Indianapolis 500, securing victory in 1950. Participated in multiple annual racing events, showcasing skill and determination on various tracks. Set records in several competitions, leaving a mark in the racing community.
Continue ReadingIgor Sikorsky
Born in 1889, a pioneering aircraft designer who emigrated to the United States from Russia. Established Sikorsky Aircraft in 1923, significantly contributing to aviation technology and helicopter design. Developed the first successful helicopter, the VS-300, which became the basis for many subsequent designs. Played a crucial role in the advancement of rotorcraft and aviation principles, helping to lay the foundation for modern helicopter development.
Continue ReadingBill Durnan
Played as a goaltender in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Montreal Canadiens from 1943 to 1949. Achieved significant success, winning the Hart Trophy as the NHL's Most Valuable Player in 1945. After retirement, transitioned to coaching in various leagues, including a head coach role in the Eastern Professional Hockey League. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1976, recognizing contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingRobert MacArthur
Contributed significantly to the understanding of ecology through the development of the theory of island biogeography. Pioneered the concept of niche differentiation, which explains how different species coexist in a habitat without competing for the same resources. Held a faculty position at Princeton University, where extensive research on bird populations and the dynamics of ecosystems took place. MacArthur's work established foundational principles in community ecology and contributed to habitat conservation efforts.
Continue Reading