What Happened This Year 1972

People Who Died in 1972

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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Richard Ellsasser

American organist and composer
Born
September 14th, 1926 98 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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T. Texas Tyler

Country music singer-songwriter
Born
June 20th, 1916 108 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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Richard von Coudenhove-Kalergi

Austrian politician and philosopher
Born
November 16th, 1894 130 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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Fredrick Willius

Cardiologist and medical author
Born
November 24th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 84 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of cardiology with extensive research and publications. Authored influential medical texts that enhanced understanding of heart diseases. Served as a consultant and educator, shaping future generations of medical professionals. Participated in various conferences and collaborated with peers on key advancements in clinical practice.

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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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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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Ross Bagdasarian Sr.

Singer-songwriter and creator of Chipmunks
Born
January 27th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 53 years old

An American singer-songwriter, pianist, producer, and actor, contributed to the music industry through the creation of the animated musical group Alvin and the Chipmunks. The group debuted in 1958 and became a significant cultural phenomenon. The first album, "Sing Alvin Sing," featured the hit song 'The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)', which won a Grammy Award. This innovative approach combined humor and music, appealing to both children and adults. The success of Alvin and the Chipmunks led to numerous sequels, animated television series, and films, making a lasting mark on pop culture.

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Hugo Steinhaus

Polish mathematician, co-founder of PWN
Born
January 14th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1887, a Polish mathematician contributed significantly to various areas of mathematics, including functional analysis, topology, and probability theory. Steinhaus co-founded the Polish Scientific Publishers (PWN), which played a crucial role in advancing scientific literature in Poland. He was a prominent member of the Lwów School of Mathematics and worked closely with other mathematicians such as Stefan Banach and Juliusz Braun. His work laid foundational aspects for future research in the field. Steinhaus also published several influential papers and books throughout his career, disseminating knowledge and fostering new generations of mathematicians. Steinhaus's legacy includes a continued influence on mathematical thought well beyond his lifetime.

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