What Happened This Year 1972

People Who Died in 1972

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.

Continue Reading

Sally Benson

American author and screenwriter
Born
September 3rd, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1897, an American author and screenwriter wrote several successful works throughout her career. The collection of short stories titled 'Meet Me in St. Louis' gained significant popularity and was adapted into a successful film in 1944. This adaptation contributed to the lasting legacy, showcasing the life of a St. Louis family during the early 20th century. Contributions to Hollywood included screenplays for notable films, solidifying a presence in the film industry alongside literary achievements.

Continue Reading

Kenneth Patchen

American poet and painter
Born
December 13th, 1911 113 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.

Continue Reading

Walter Jackson Freeman II

Physician and psychiatrist, lobotomy pioneer
Born
November 14th, 1895 129 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.

Continue Reading

Clyde McPhatter

American singer, lead of The Drifters
Born
November 15th, 1932 92 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.

Continue Reading