What Happened This Year 1972

People Who Died in 1972

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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Pandurang Vaman Kane

Indologist and Sanskrit scholar
Born
May 7th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1972 52 years ago — 92 years old

An influential Indologist and Sanskrit scholar contributed significantly to the study of ancient Indian texts and culture. Recipient of the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in India, for scholarly contributions. Authored 'History of Sanskrit Literature', a comprehensive account of Sanskrit literary tradition. Engaged in several academic and educational initiatives to promote Sanskrit studies in India.

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Dan Blocker

Actor from Bonanza
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1972 52 years ago — 44 years old

An American actor gained recognition for portraying Eric 'Hoss' Cartwright on the television series Bonanza from 1959 until 1972. The show focused on the Cartwright family and their ranch in Nevada during the 1860s. Blocker's character was known for his size and gentle nature, contributing significantly to the series' popularity. In addition to Bonanza, Blocker appeared in various television shows and films throughout his career, establishing a strong presence in the entertainment industry.

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Cecil Day-Lewis

Anglo-Irish poet and novelist
Born
April 27th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1972 52 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1904, this individual gained recognition as a prominent poet and novelist in the 20th century. Contributed significantly to both children's literature and adult poetry. Served as the Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1968 until death in 1972. Engaged in academia and literary criticism, holding positions at various universities throughout his career.

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Margaret Rutherford

English actress; won Academy Award
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1972 52 years ago — 80 years old

An accomplished English actress, celebrated for work in film and theater. Gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s, particularly noted for her comedic roles. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in the film 'The VIPs'. Additionally, portrayed Miss Marple in several adaptations of Agatha Christie's detective novels, contributing significantly to the film genre during that era.

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Edward VIII of the United Kingdom

Former King of the United Kingdom
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1972 52 years ago — 78 years old

Ascended to the throne in January 1936 but abdicated in December 1936 in favor of his brother due to his desire to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcée. The abdication marked the first voluntary resignation of a British monarch. After abdication, served as Governor of the Bahamas during World War II. Lived in France for many years, remaining a controversial figure in British history.

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Moe Berg

Baseball player and World War II spy
Born
March 2nd, 1902 123 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1972 52 years ago — 70 years old

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1923 to 1939, representing teams such as the Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox, and the Washington Senators. Apart from a baseball career, served as a spy for the Office of Strategic Services during World War II. Conducted intelligence-gathering missions in Europe, including assessing the German atomic bomb project. After the war, contributed to post-war analysis and educational efforts.

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Stephen Timoshenko

Mechanical engineer and educator
Born
December 23rd, 1878 146 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1972 52 years ago — 93 years old

Born in Ukraine, contributed significantly to the fields of engineering and mechanics. Taught at various prestigious universities in the United States and published seminal texts on elasticity and structural analysis. Established the Timoshenko Medal for recognition in engineering achievements. His work laid foundational principles utilized in engineering education and practice.

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Gilberto Parlotti

Motorcycle racer winning 1968 Isle of Man
Born
September 17th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1972 52 years ago — 31 years old

A prominent motorcycle racer specialized in road racing, particularly at the Isle of Man. Competed for various teams during the 1960s, showcasing exceptional skills on challenging circuits. Achieved significant placement in numerous prestigious events. Established a reputation through relentless determination and technical proficiency while racing.

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