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Events on Tuesday 12 May 1942 2
1942 – 2000Ian Dury (1942-2000)Died 27 March 2000, aged 57Ian Dury was an English singer and lyricist who, with his band the Blockheads, brought wit and music-hall swagger to the punk and new wave era. Songs such as "Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick" showcased his wordplay. Left disabled by childhood polio, he was also an advocate for disabled people. He died of cancer.
1942Second Battle of KharkovSoviet offensive ends in encirclementA Soviet offensive to retake Kharkov ran into a German counter-attack that trapped several Soviet armies at the Izium salient. The Red Army lost more than 250,000 men. The defeat opened the way for the German summer drive toward Stalingrad and the Caucasus.