What Happened This Year 1972

People Who Died in 1972

Erich von dem Bach-Zelewski

German SS officer during WWII
Born
March 1st, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 73 years old

Served as an SS officer during World War II, holding multiple commands within Nazi Germany's paramilitary structure. Participated in operations against partisan forces in Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland and the Soviet Union. Involved in the suppression of uprisings and the enforcement of Nazi policies in occupied territories. After the war, faced prosecution for war crimes and provided testimony at various trials.

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Richard Courant

Mathematician and academic leader
Born
January 8th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 84 years old

Contributions to mathematical analysis, calculus of variations, and partial differential equations characterized a significant part of the career. Played a crucial role in establishing mathematical education in the United States. Founded the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences at New York University. Authored influential textbooks that shaped modern mathematics education.

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Edward VIII

King of the United Kingdom
Born
June 23rd, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 78 years old

Ascended the throne in January 1936 but abdicated in December of the same year. The abdication was largely due to his desire to marry Wallis Simpson, a twice-divorced American socialite. The decision caused a constitutional crisis and led to his brother, Albert, Duke of York, becoming King George VI. After abdication, held the title of Duke of Windsor and lived in exile in France.

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Frank Tashlin

Animator and screenwriter of films
Born
February 19th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 59 years old

An animator and screenwriter, contributed significantly to animated films and live-action comedies. Worked with Warner Bros, directing several animated shorts featuring characters such as Porky Pig and Daffy Duck. Transitioned to live-action, directing notable films like 'The Girl Can't Help It' and 'Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?'. Developed a unique style blending animation with live action, influencing future filmmakers.

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Ruhana Kuddus

Indonesian activist and journalist
Born
December 20th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 88 years old

Begun activism in the early 20th century, focused on women's rights and education in Indonesia. Established the first Indonesian women's organization, Kartini Club, promoting feminism and social issues. Actively wrote for various publications, addressing topics such as education, women's empowerment, and national independence. Played a crucial role in advocating for women's representation in Indonesian society during the colonial period, influencing future generations of activists.

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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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M. C. Escher

Dutch graphic artist and illustrator
Born
June 17th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 74 years old

An influential graphic artist and illustrator, this individual gained recognition for intricate and mathematically inspired works. Projects included woodcuts, lithographs, and mezzotints characterized by impossible constructions, explorations of infinity, and optical illusions. The profound impact on art and mathematics remains significant in both fields. The style reflects a fascination with patterns, perspective, and symmetry, presenting a unique blend of art and science that continues to intrigue audiences.

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Maria Goeppert Mayer

Physicist, Nobel Prize winner in Physics
Born
June 28th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 66 years old

A German-American physicist contributed significantly to the understanding of nuclear structure. Developed the shell model of the nucleus, which describes the arrangement of protons and neutrons. Worked at several institutions including Columbia University and the University of California, San Diego. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1963 with J. Hans D. Jensen and Eugene Wigner for achievements in the field. Focused research on the behavior of nuclear particles and interactions.

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Hana Meisel

Agronomist and politician from Israel
Born
December 25th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 89 years old

An agronomist and politician, she dedicated efforts to agricultural reform and contributed to the establishment of the agricultural sector in Palestine. Active in political circles, her work focused on improving farming conditions and advocating for agricultural innovation. In Israel, she played a key role in agricultural development policies. Her expertise helped shape agricultural practices during a pivotal time in the region's history.

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