What Happened This Year 1992

People Who Died in 1992

José Ferrer

Puerto Rican-American actor and director
Born
January 8th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1992 33 years ago — 80 years old

An actor and director with a notable career in film and theater. Gained prominence for the role of Cyrano de Bergerac in the 1946 Broadway production of 'Cyrano de Bergerac,' which also led to an Academy Award for Best Actor. Directed several acclaimed stage productions and was involved in various film projects, illustrating a significant contribution to the performing arts. His work spanned both English and Spanish-language productions, showcasing versatility across different media.

Continue Reading

Willie Dixon

American blues musician and songwriter
Born
July 1st, 1915 109 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1992 33 years ago — 76 years old

A significant figure in the Chicago blues scene, this musician played a crucial role in shaping the genre through songwriting and producing. His work with renowned artists helped popularize blues music during the mid-20th century. Major contributions include classic songs such as 'Hoochie Coochie Man' and 'Little Red Rooster.' Additionally, contribution to the recording industry as a producer supported many rising talents in blues. The individual was also a successful performer, often appearing in various clubs and music festivals. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, further solidifying his legacy in music history.

Continue Reading

Bert Parks

Television host and beauty pageant emcee
Born
December 30th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1992 33 years ago — 77 years old

An American television personality and singer, hosted the Miss America pageant from 1955 to 1979. Started a career in entertainment with performances in radio and musical theatre. Gained considerable fame as the master of ceremonies for the annual Miss America pageant, becoming synonymous with the event. Parks showcased singing talent on various television shows and made guest appearances across multiple platforms, including game shows and variety programs.

Continue Reading

John Dehner

American actor in film and television
Born
November 23rd, 1915 109 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1992 33 years ago — 76 years old

An actor with a prolific career in film and television, primarily recognized for contributions to Westerns and historical dramas. Significant roles included playing in 'The Great Masquerade', 'The Twilight Zone', and 'Have Gun – Will Travel'. His versatility allowed for portrayals of both heroes and villains, achieving a wide-ranging body of work across more than four decades in the industry.

Continue Reading

Stanley Armour Dunham

American Sergeant and father-in-law of President
Born
March 23rd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1992 33 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II. Participated in the liberation of the Philippines. Later worked in the furniture business. Dunham was the grandfather of Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States.

Continue Reading

Alex Haley

Author of 'Roots'
Born
August 11th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1992 33 years ago — 70 years old

An American author and journalist gained prominence with the novel 'Roots: The Saga of an American Family', published in 1976, which traces his ancestry back to Africa and explores the impact of slavery on American history. The book was adapted into a successful miniseries in 1977, which became a cultural phenomenon and is credited with raising awareness about African American history. Haley also wrote 'The Autobiography of Malcolm X', which illustrated the life and thoughts of the civil rights leader, and served in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. His works have influenced literature and discussions surrounding race in America.

Continue Reading

Bep van Klaveren

Dutch boxer, Olympic medalist
Born
September 26th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1992 33 years ago — 84 years old

Competed in boxing and achieved significant success during the 1920s and 1930s. Secured a bronze medal in the lightweight division at the 1920 Antwerp Olympics. Accumulated numerous national championships and built a reputation in the boxing community, particularly in the Netherlands. Became a prominent figure in the sport, known for technical skill and competitive spirit. Transitioned to a coaching role later in life, contributing to the development of boxing in the country.

Continue Reading

Nikolay Bogolyubov

Mathematician and physicist, statistical physics
Born
August 21st, 1909 115 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1992 33 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematical physics, particularly in statistical mechanics and quantum field theory. Developed methods for the study of many-body systems and contributed to the theory of superconductivity. His work in functional analysis and operator theory laid foundational approaches used in physics. Served as a professor at various institutions, influencing future generations of mathematicians and physicists. Authored numerous scientific papers and several books, which continue to be referenced in contemporary research.

Continue Reading

William Schuman

Composer and educator, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
August 4th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1992 33 years ago — 81 years old

An influential American composer and educator, contributed significantly to the field of classical music. Served as president of the Juilliard School from 1945 to 1961, shaping the education of many future musicians. Composed numerous orchestral works, choral pieces, and chamber music, often characterized by American themes and styles. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1941 for his symphonic work, which further established his reputation in the music world. His compositions often featured innovative rhythms and harmonies that reflected the culture of his time.

Continue Reading