What Happened This Year 1926

Born in 1926

Harold Shipp

Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
September 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old

A businessman and philanthropist, contributions included founding a successful transportation company. Established significant charitable initiatives that benefited education and health sectors in Canada. Played a pivotal role in the development of community programs.

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Robert White

American diplomat, U.S. Ambassador
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2015 11 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a career foreign service officer in the United States State Department. Held the position of United States Ambassador to Paraguay from 1993 to 1996. Developed policies to promote democracy and human rights in the region. Advocacy for social justice led to tensions with the U.S. government, particularly concerning policies in Latin America. Retired from diplomatic service and engaged in various educational and advocacy efforts.

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Michael Otedola

Nigerian politician, 9th Governor of Lagos
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the 9th Governor of Lagos State from 1992 to 1993. Prior to becoming governor, engaged in a career in journalism and contributed to various publications. Focused on infrastructure development and public service during the gubernatorial term. His administration was characterized by efforts to enhance education and health services within the state. After his term ended, remained involved in multiple philanthropic activities and business ventures.

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Johanna Quandt

German businesswoman, BMW stakeholder
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent German business figure who played a significant role in the automotive industry through her ownership stakes in BMW. Inherited a substantial portion of her wealth from her late husband, a member of the Quandt family, which has a long history with the company. Managed and expanded investments within the firm, contributing to its strategic development. In addition to automobile manufacturing, supported various charitable initiatives.

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Erich Loest

German author and screenwriter
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old

An author and screenwriter contributed significantly to German literature and film. Focused on themes of social justice and personal integrity, works often examined the complexities of life in East Germany. Earned recognition for novels and adaptations, including the acclaimed novel "Die Verwirrung der Welt" which explored the impact of social mores in post-war society. Additionally, participated in the literary community as a playwright, shaping cultural narratives through various forms of storytelling.

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William G. Roll

Psychologist and parapsychologist
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2012 14 years ago — 86 years old

A psychologist and parapsychologist, contributed significantly to the study of psychical research. Engaged in research on poltergeists and survival after death, publishing extensively on these topics. Developed the concept of 'psychokinesis' and conducted various experiments to test this phenomenon. Held the position of Director of the Psychical Research Foundation, where numerous studies were conducted to examine paranormal events and psychological phenomena.

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Ann B. Davis

American actress of 'The Brady Bunch'
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old

An actress achieved fame through a television role as Alice Nelson in 'The Brady Bunch'. Her career began in the 1950s with performances on stage and screen, including significant work in comedy series. She received two Primetime Emmy Awards for outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series for her role in 'The Bob Cummings Show'. Davis continued to work in television and film, establishing a lasting legacy.

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Leopoldo Calvo-Sotelo

Spanish Prime Minister and engineer
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2008 17 years ago — 82 years old

An engineer and politician served as Prime Minister of Spain from 1981 to 1982. Entered politics in the 1960s and held various positions, including Minister of Public Works and Urbanism. Oversaw significant events during the Spanish transition to democracy, guiding the nation through a critical period of political change. Promoted economic modernization and infrastructure development. Stepped down following a motion of no confidence, shortly after a failed coup attempt in 1981.

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Herbert Blau

American engineer and academic
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of electrical engineering and space technology. Served as a professor at multiple prestigious universities, influencing generations of engineers. Engaged in research and development for advanced technological systems. Published numerous papers and books advancing knowledge in engineering disciplines.

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