What Happened This Year 1972

People Who Died in 1972

Gabby Hartnett

Baseball player and manager with Cubs
Born
December 20th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent figure in Major League Baseball, played primarily for the Chicago Cubs. Achieved recognition as a catcher and later took on the role of manager. Made significant contributions to the game during the 1920s and 1930s, becoming a key player for the Cubs as they contended in multiple seasons. Helped lead the team to a National League pennant in 1938. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1955, solidifying a legacy in the sport.

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Lillian Moller Gilbreth

Psychologist and engineer, efficiency expert
Born
May 24th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of industrial engineering through the study of time and motion. Developed work methods for increased efficiency and effectiveness in workplaces. Co-authored several influential books, including 'The Psychology of Management'. Focused on the importance of human factors in productivity and the relationship between psychological principles and engineering practices.

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R. F. Delderfield

English author and playwright
Born
February 12th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 60 years old

An English author and playwright, contributed significantly to literature in the 20th century. Works included historical novels and plays, most notably 'To Serve Them All My Days' which depicted the life of a schoolmaster at a fictional boarding school after World War I. Achieved success with a distinctive narrative style and engaging character development. Expanded the genre of historical fiction through vivid storytelling, evoking the social and cultural atmosphere of the periods portrayed.

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Kenneth Edgeworth

Irish astronomer and theorist
Born
February 26th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed to the understanding of the solar system and celestial mechanics. Worked on the theory of the Kuiper Belt, an area of the solar system beyond Neptune populated by many small icy bodies. Engaged in academic pursuits and published various papers, influencing future astronomical research. Involved in the establishment of the field of planetary science, bringing attention to the significance of small bodies in the solar system.

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Joakim Bonnier

Swedish race car driver and Le Mans competitor
Born
January 31st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 42 years old

Competed in Formula One racing and was active from 1956 to 1971. Participated in 108 Grand Prix events, achieving a total of three podium finishes. Also raced in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, securing significant recognition for performances with various teams. Known for his dedication to the sport during a transformative era in racing.

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Niño Ricardo

Spanish guitarist and composer
Born
July 11th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent figure in flamenco music, contributed significantly to the guitar techniques and composition styles within the genre. Developed a unique manner of playing that influenced many guitarists. Collaborated with noted flamenco artists and participated in numerous recordings, which elevated the art of flamenco guitar. Inspired future generations of musicians through educational efforts and performances.

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Jeff Pfeffer

Baseball player with strong pitching skills
Born
March 4th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 84 years old

Professional baseball player played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1912 to 1917. Played for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Giants. Achieved notable success on the mound, particularly during the 1913 season. After retiring from baseball, operated a successful business.

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Rinus van den Berge

Dutch middle-distance runner, Olympic athlete
Born
March 12th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 72 years old

Competed in athletics, specializing in middle-distance events. Participated in the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris, competing in the 1500 meters. Achieved notable success in national competitions, establishing a reputation in Dutch athletics during the early 20th century. Made significant contributions to the sport at a time when competitive athletics was gaining popularity.

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Leila Diniz

Brazilian actress in cinema and television
Born
March 25th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 27 years old

An actress achieved prominence in Brazilian cinema and television during the 1960s and 1970s. Gained recognition for roles in films such as 'Os Cafajestes', which highlighted a new wave of Brazilian cinema. Featured in the popular television series 'Dancin' Days' that captivated audiences. Advocated for freedom of expression and women's rights through her work, becoming a cultural icon in Brazil.

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