What Happened This Year 1972

People Who Died in 1972

Yasunari Kawabata

Japanese novelist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 11th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1972 52 years ago — 72 years old

A celebrated novelist and short story writer, received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1968 for contributions to literature that evoked the beauty of Japanese culture. Early works included 'Snow Country,' which depicted the emotional desolation of a love affair in a remote hot spring town, and 'The Sound of the Mountain,' exploring family dynamics and human experience. Kawabata's narrative style combined graceful language with deep psychological insight, often reflecting themes of nature and existential contemplation.

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Fernando Amorsolo

Filipino painter of rural landscapes
Born
May 30th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1972 52 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent Filipino painter, celebrated for depictions of rural life and natural beauty in the Philippines. Gained recognition for skillfully capturing light and shadow, earning the title of the country's first National Artist for Painting. Developed a unique style that blended realism with romanticism, producing numerous works that reflect the vibrant landscape and culture of the archipelago. Contributed significantly to Philippine art through various exhibitions and artworks that showcase everyday life and the countryside's picturesque scenery. Influenced future generations of Filipino artists and remains an iconic figure in the country's artistic heritage.

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George Sanders

British actor and Oscar winner
Born
July 3rd, 1906 118 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1972 52 years ago — 65 years old

Born in Russia, migrated to England and pursued a career in acting. Gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s, often playing sophisticated characters. Gained an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role in 'All About Eve'. Appeared in numerous films, including 'The Ghost and Mrs. Muir' and 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'. His distinctive voice and suave persona contributed to his success in the film industry.

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Kwame Nkrumah

Ghanaian politician, 1st President of Ghana
Born
September 21st, 1909 115 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1972 52 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the first Prime Minister and President of Ghana, leading the country to independence from British colonial rule in 1957. Focused on nation-building and pan-Africanism, advocating for the unity of African states. Founded the Convention People's Party and implemented policies for economic development and education reform. His leadership faced challenges, leading to a period of political turmoil and eventual overthrow in 1966. Nkrumah lived in exile until his death in 1972.

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Gia Scala

English-American model and actress in films
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1972 52 years ago — 38 years old

Born in England and raised in America, a model and actress gained recognition in the 1960s for roles in film and television. Gained notable acclaim for performances in productions such as 'The Guns of Navarone' and 'The Man Who Knew Too Much'. Appeared frequently on television, contributing to series like 'The Twilight Zone'. Struggled with personal issues, which affected career trajectory. Passed away in 1972.

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J. Edgar Hoover

Law enforcement official; FBI Director
Born
January 1st, 1895 130 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1972 52 years ago — 77 years old

An American law enforcement official served as the first Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation from 1935 until 1972. Played a pivotal role in establishing the FBI as a key institution in the federal government. His leadership was marked by significant developments in criminal investigation techniques, particularly in the areas of forensic science and criminal profiling. Oversaw numerous high-profile cases and investigations, including those related to organized crime and civil rights.

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Bruce Cabot

American actor in classic films
Born
April 20th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1972 52 years ago — 68 years old

This individual was an American actor, active primarily during the early to mid-20th century. Featured prominently in the Hollywood film scene, he gained considerable recognition for performances in adventure and horror genres. Major film credits include roles in 'King Kong' (1933) and 'The Last of the Mohicans' (1936). Throughout a career spanning several decades, he collaborated with various prominent filmmakers and actors, reinforcing his position in the industry during its golden age.

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Emil Breitkreutz

American runner and coach, Olympic athlete
Born
November 16th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1972 52 years ago — 88 years old

Achieved success as a middle-distance runner, competing in the 1908 Olympics in London. Also served as a coach for various running programs, fostering athletic talent and contributing to the development of track and field in the United States. His coaching efforts focused on training techniques and strategies that helped athletes excel in competitive events.

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Edward Calvin Kendall

Nobel Prize-winning chemist
Born
March 8th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1972 52 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1886, a prominent American chemist specialized in the field of steroid chemistry. Worked extensively on the isolation and identification of various hormones, particularly adrenal cortical hormones. Contributed to significant advancements in endocrinology through research involving the chemistry of adrenal glands. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1950 for discoveries related to these hormones, which had profound implications for medicine and health. Held academic positions and was involved in various scientific organizations, fostering further research in the field.

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