What Happened This Year 1972

People Who Died in 1972

Edmund Wilson

Literary critic and essayist
Born
May 8th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1972 52 years ago — 77 years old

An influential American critic and essayist who contributed significantly to literary criticism and cultural commentary. Edited several prominent publications including The New Republic and The Nation. Authored numerous works that explored literature and society, including 'Axel's Castle' and 'To the Finland Station'. His writings examined the relationship between literature and politics across different eras, establishing a critical framework that remains referenced today.

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Stephanie von Hohenlohe

Austrian-German spy for Allied Forces
Born
September 16th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1972 52 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1891, this individual served as a spy during World War II, primarily working for the Allied Forces. Operating in Europe, she utilized her aristocratic connections to gain access to critical information and networks. Engaging with high-ranking officials, she gathered intelligence that was vital for military operations. After the war, she faced various challenges related to her involvement in espionage and her aristocratic background, which had significant implications for her later life.

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Georg von Békésy

Biophysicist, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
June 3rd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1972 52 years ago — 73 years old

A Hungarian-American biophysicist contributed to the understanding of sound perception through research on the inner ear. Developed the traveling wave theory of the cochlea, which explained how sound waves propagate and are processed in the auditory system. Held a position at Harvard University and contributed significantly to the field of auditory physiology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1961 for discoveries concerning the physical properties of the cochlea.

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Jan Matulka

Czech-American painter and illustrator
Born
November 7th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1972 52 years ago — 81 years old

Pursued artistic training in Prague before relocating to the United States. Contributed significantly to the American art scene in the early to mid-20th century. Worked as an illustrator and created vibrant paintings influenced by modernist styles. Emphasized themes of movement and geometry in artworks. Participated in exhibitions and gained recognition for both oil paintings and illustrations.

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Joseph Fielding Smith

Religious leader, 10th LDS President
Born
July 19th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1972 52 years ago — 95 years old

Served as the 10th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1945 to 1970. Authored numerous works on theology and church history, contributing to the church's doctrine. Advocated for education and religious studies within the church. Played a significant role in church governance and leadership during mid-20th century.

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Athenagoras I of Constantinople

Ecumenical Patriarch and theologian
Born
April 6th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1972 52 years ago — 86 years old

Served as Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 1948 until death in 1972. Contributed to the dialogue between Eastern and Western Christian traditions, emphasizing unity among various Christian denominations. Organized the 1964 meeting with Pope Paul VI, a significant step in Orthodox-Catholic relations. Advocated for religious freedom and was active in world peace efforts.

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Ghassan Kanafani

Palestinian writer and politician
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1972 52 years ago — 36 years old

A significant figure in Palestinian literature and politics, Kanafani contributed to the development of modern Arabic literature. His works often focused on the Palestinian struggle and identity. He served as a spokesperson for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine and used literature as a tool for political expression. His notable works included novels, short stories, and plays, with a strong emphasis on the refugee experience. Kanafani's life was cut short when he was assassinated in 1972.

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Robert Weede

Opera singer and acclaimed baritone
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1972 52 years ago — 69 years old

Acclaimed as a baritone, achieved prominence during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for performances at prestigious venues such as the Metropolitan Opera. Renowned for interpretations of leading roles in operas by composers like Verdi and Puccini. Contributed significantly to the art of opera through extensive performances across the United States.

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Lovie Austin

American pianist and bandleader
Born
September 19th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1972 52 years ago — 84 years old

Lovie Austin emerged as a prominent figure in the early 20th century jazz scene. As a pianist, composer, and bandleader, contributed significantly to the development of blues music. Led her own ensemble and performed in various venues, gaining recognition for musical talent. Worked with notable artists and left a lasting influence on the genre.

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