What Happened This Year 1972

People Who Died in 1972

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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Maria Goeppert Mayer

Physicist, Nobel Prize winner in Physics
Born
June 28th, 1906 119 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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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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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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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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Don Byas

Jazz saxophonist and educator in bebop
Born
October 21st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 60 years old

Significant contributions to the development of bebop characterized the career of this saxophonist. Born in 1912 in the United States, early work included playing with jazz bands in the 1930s. Collaborated with notable musicians such as Thelonious Monk and Dizzy Gillespie. Served as an influential educator, imparting knowledge to upcoming generations of jazz musicians. Resided in Europe for many years, continuing to work and influence the jazz scene.

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Elton Britt

American country singer-songwriter
Born
June 27th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent figure in country music, this artist gained fame in the 1940s and 1950s. Successful as a singer-songwriter and guitarist, significant contributions were made to the genre through original songs and performances. The hit single 'There's a Rainbow 'Round My Shoulder' became a standout track, showcasing the artist's unique blend of traditional country with pop influences. A recording contract with RCA Records led to a number of popular recordings that helped define the sound of the era. This artist also gained recognition on radio and television, enhancing visibility in the music world.

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Rudolph Ganz

Swiss pianist and conductor of note
Born
February 24th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent Swiss pianist, composer, and conductor, contributions to classical music spanned several decades. Became recognized through performances and engagements across Europe and the United States. Founded the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's summer concerts and held various positions with orchestras and music institutions. His work included conducting operas and orchestral concerts, and he contributed to music education through teaching. The ability to blend performance with artistic leadership defined career.

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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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