What Happened This Year 1972

People Who Died in 1972

Sharkey Bonano

American jazz trumpeter and bandleader
Born
April 9th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 68 years old

An influential figure in the New Orleans jazz scene. Played trumpet and served as a bandleader in various ensembles. Promoted the traditional jazz sound through performances and recordings from the 1920s to the 1960s. Known for lively performances that showcased both original compositions and classic standards.

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Clyde McPhatter

American singer, lead of The Drifters
Born
November 15th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 40 years old

Famous as a pioneering rhythm and blues singer, contributed significantly to the genre. Led the group The Drifters during their early years, providing a distinctive voice that helped shape their sound. Achieved success in the 1950s with a series of hit singles that resonated with audiences. Later pursued a solo career, delivering popular songs that showcased vocal talent and emotional depth. Influenced subsequent generations of musicians and singers across various genres.

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Walter Jackson Freeman II

Physician and psychiatrist, lobotomy pioneer
Born
November 14th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 77 years old

Contributed to the development of lobotomy as a psychiatric treatment in the mid-20th century. Worked as a neurologist, focusing on severe mental disorders. Co-invented the transorbital lobotomy, a procedure performed through the eye socket. Authored multiple publications on psychiatry and was involved in the establishment of mental health procedures.

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Gil Hodges

Baseball player and manager with Dodgers
Born
April 4th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 48 years old

An American baseball player and manager, played primarily for the Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers. Achievements include eight All-Star selections and two World Series championships. Transitioned into management, leading the New York Mets to their first World Series title in 1969. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2022, recognizing significant contributions to the sport.

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T. Texas Tyler

Country music singer-songwriter
Born
June 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 56 years old

A significant figure in country music, contributed to the genre with a blend of traditional and honky-tonk styles. Achieved notable success in the 1940s and 1950s with several chart-topping hits. Gained recognition for performances at various venues and on radio programs, influencing the music scene of that era. Was active in the American music industry until the 1980s.

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Kenneth Patchen

American poet and painter
Born
December 13th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1911, a significant figure in American literature and art, worked as both a poet and a painter. Developed a unique style that blended personal emotions with social commentary. Published numerous poetry collections including 'The Journal of Albion Moonlight' and 'The Teeth of the Lion'. Engaged with the Beats and influenced the counterculture of the 1960s. Innovated in mixed media, creating visual poetry that combined text and art.

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Richard von Coudenhove-Kalergi

Austrian politician and philosopher
Born
November 16th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 78 years old

An Austrian philosopher and politician, contributed significantly to the concept of European integration. Formulated the idea of Pan-European Unity and established the Pan-European Movement in 1923, which aimed to unite European nations. Published influential works advocating for cooperation among European states, including 'Praktischer Idealismus' in 1925. Engaged in political activism to promote a united Europe, emphasizing peace and solidarity among nations.

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Richard Ellsasser

American organist and composer
Born
September 14th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 46 years old

An American organist, composer, and conductor, notable contributions were made to the world of organ music through performances and compositions. Ellsasser gained recognition for exceptional organ performances, especially in liturgical settings, and for his innovative approaches to organ music. He served as a conductor, demonstrating skills in leading various musical ensembles. His contributions to the repertoire of organ music, along with recordings and performances, solidified his place in the music community.

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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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