What Happened This Year 1972

People Who Died in 1972

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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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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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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Günter Eich

German author and songwriter
Born
February 1st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 65 years old

An influential German author and songwriter, contributed significantly to post-war literature. Worked in radio, poetry, and drama, reflecting the complexities of human existence and society in turbulent times. Made notable contributions to the genre of radio plays, with several works addressing contemporary issues. Actively engaged in the literary community and collaborated with various media outlets throughout his career.

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Brian Donlevy

American actor in classic films
Born
February 9th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 71 years old

Active from the 1930s to the 1980s, this actor gained recognition for roles in a variety of films, particularly in the film noir genre. Notable performances include leading roles in 'The Great McGinty' and 'The Black Book'. This actor's career spanned several decades, showcasing versatility across different genres, including drama and comedy. The portrayal of Sergeant Thomas D. Kirk in the wartime film 'All Through the Night' further solidified a reputation in classic cinema. Essential contributions to Hollywood's Golden Age highlighted a prominent presence in film during this period.

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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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Margaret Bonds

Pianist and composer of 'Troubled Water'
Born
March 3rd, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 59 years old

One of the earliest African American classical composers, contributed significantly to American music through piano compositions and vocal works. Bonds studied at Northwestern University and later at the Chicago Musical College. Collaborated with prominent figures, including poet Langston Hughes, on several musical projects. Served as a music educator, imparting knowledge to younger generations. Bonds' work often reflected African American cultural themes and her experiences. She received several commissions from notable organizations, enhancing her prominence within the music community.

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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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