What Happened on May 29, 1942

Historical Events

Yankee Doodle Dandy

"Yankee Doodle Dandy", based on life of George M. Cohan, directed by Michael Curtiz, starring James Cagney and Joan Lesley, premieres in NYC (Academy Awards Best Actor 1943)

White Christmas

Bing Crosby records Irving Berlin's song "White Christmas", with the John Scott Trotter Orchestra and the Ken Darby Singers, in just 18 minutes; becomes world's best-selling single (estimated 100 million copies sold)


Famous Birthdays

  • Kevin Conway, American actor (Flash Point, Cage of Angels), born in New York City
  • Pierre Bourque, Canadian politician (40th Mayor of Montreal), born in Montreal, Quebec

Famous Deaths

  • Akiko Yosano, Japanese poet (Tangled Hair), dies at 63

John Barrymore (1882-1942)

American actor (Beloved Rogue, Dinner at 8), dies from cirrhosis of the liver and kidney failure at 60


Died in 1942 1942 Highlights

About May 29, 1942

Day of the Week: Friday
How Long Ago? 81 years, 10 months and 30 days
Leap Year: No

Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Horse
Star Sign: Gemini