What Happened This Year 1906

Born in 1906

Huguette Clark

American heiress and philanthropist
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
May 24th, 2011 13 years ago — 105 years old

An heiress, painter, and philanthropist, she inherited a vast fortune from her father, a copper magnate. Throughout life, engaged in art and philanthropy while living in seclusion for decades. Known for exquisite paintings which reflected personal aesthetic and interest in the arts. She donated substantial amounts to various charities, focusing on the arts and healthcare. At her death, her estate sparked legal battles due to its size and the nature of her bequests.

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August Komendant

Engineer and academic in structural design
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1992 32 years ago — 86 years old

An Estonian-American engineer, contributed significantly to structural engineering and education. Played a vital role in developing innovative design methods and structures throughout a long career in academia and industry. Served as a professor at various universities, mentoring multiple generations of engineers. Engaged in architectural projects that incorporated technical advancements in structural design, promoting safer and more efficient building practices.

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Nguyễn Văn Thiện

Vietnamese bishop with leadership role
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2012 12 years ago — 106 years old

Served as a bishop in Vietnam, contributing to the Catholic Church in the country. Played a significant role in the pastoral care and development of the local church community. Engaged in various social issues, advocating for the rights and dignity of the faithful amidst challenging political circumstances.

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Gustav Bergmann

Austrian-American philosopher
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1987 37 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent philosopher associated with the Vienna Circle, contributed to the development of logical positivism and the philosophy of mind. Emigrated from Austria to the United States, where continued philosophical work. Engaged in debates surrounding the structure of scientific theories and the relationship between language and reality. Additionally, taught at various institutions, influencing a generation of philosophers and students. Published several works that explored the interface of language, experience, and knowledge.

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Catherine Cookson

English author of historical novels
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1998 26 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1906 in Tyne and Wear, this author gained prominence for a series of novels set in the North of England. Brought up in a working-class family, early life experiences fueled storytelling. The first significant work, 'The Girl', published in 1950, received critical acclaim and established a successful writing career. Over the following decades, more than 100 novels were published, many of which were adapted into television dramas. Cookson's stories often featured themes of resilience and human experience, resonating with a wide audience. In 1995, an honorary degree from the University of Sunderland acknowledged literary contributions.

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Josef Kramer

Concentration camp commandant
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1945 79 years ago — 39 years old

Commanded the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp during World War II. Oversaw the operations of the camp from 1944 to 1945. Played a key role in the administration of Nazi concentration camp policies. Captured by British forces after the camp's liberation and tried for war crimes in 1945.

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Claude V. Ricketts

American admiral and military leader
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1964 60 years ago — 58 years old

Served in the United States Navy for over three decades, achieving the rank of admiral. Played key roles during World War II, particularly in naval operations in the Pacific theater. Commanded various naval vessels and participated in numerous significant battles, demonstrating strategic naval leadership. Contributed to post-war naval policies and training programs, influencing naval operations beyond his active duty years.

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Ahn Eak-tai

Composer and conductor, 'Aegukga' author
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1965 59 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent North Korean composer and conductor, Ahn Eak-tai contributed significantly to the development of classical music in North Korea. Educated in Japan and later in the Soviet Union, he focused on blending Western classical music with Korean folk elements. Ahn's most recognized composition is 'Aegukga', the national anthem of North Korea, which he arranged in its current form in 1947. He also served as a professor and held leadership roles within the North Korean music community, actively promoting music education and orchestral performances. His works primarily aimed to inspire nationalist sentiments during a period of burgeoning national identity.

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Mário Quintana

Brazilian poet and translator
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1994 30 years ago — 88 years old

A significant figure in Brazilian literature, contributed primarily through poetry and translation. Emerging in the 20th century, created a distinctive voice that melded simplicity with philosophical depth. Worked as a translator for various authors, enriching Brazilian culture with international literature. Published several poetry collections, establishing a lasting legacy in Brazilian literary circles.

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