What Happened This Year 1906

Born in 1906

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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James E. Webb

American politician and Under Secretary of State
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1992 32 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the 16th Under Secretary of State from 1961 to 1963. Contributed to policy formulation during the Kennedy administration, particularly in foreign affairs. Played a significant role in the development of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as its administrator from 1961 to 1968. Oversaw the Apollo program, which successfully landed humans on the Moon.

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Lane Dwinell

American politician, 69th Governor of NH
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1997 27 years ago — 91 years old

Served as the 69th Governor of New Hampshire from 1959 to 1961. Held the position of State Commissioner of Education prior to gubernatorial duties. Participated in various educational initiatives and state policies that shaped New Hampshire's education system. Contributed to community development and state governance in both political and business spheres.

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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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Walter L. Gordon

Canadian politician and Minister of Finance
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1987 37 years ago — 81 years old

An accountant and lawyer, served as the 22nd Minister of Finance in Canada from 1963 to 1965. Played a significant role in shaping economic policy during a period of change and faced challenges related to government expenditures and tax reform. Contributed to the development of Canada’s international financial relations and public service. Active in the Liberal Party, held various positions within the party and government throughout his career.

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E. Power Biggs

Organist and composer, Bach performer
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1977 48 years ago — 71 years old

An English-American organist and composer, contributed significantly to the performance of organ music. Became renowned for interpreting the works of Johann Sebastian Bach, helping to elevate the status of the organ in classical music. Established a successful career in both solo performances and recordings, bringing attention to the organ's musical capabilities. Involved in educational efforts, including teaching and lectures, promoting the organ as a vital instrument in church and concert settings. Participated in various recordings that showcased both Baroque and contemporary organ compositions.

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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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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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Enrique Laguerre

Author and critic of Puerto Rican literature
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
June 16th, 2005 19 years ago — 99 years old

An influential Puerto Rican-American author and critic, contributed significantly to literature and cultural discussions surrounding Puerto Rico. Founded the literary magazine 'Río de la Plata' and served as an editor for 'The San Juan Star'. Authored novels including 'Los dos lados de la cama' and played a significant role in promoting Puerto Rican writers and literature. Served as a professor at various universities, influencing generations of students through teaching and mentorship. Received recognition for literary contributions and critiques throughout a career dedicated to exploring Puerto Rican identity and culture.

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