What Happened This Year 1926

Born in 1926

Margaret John

Welsh actress, Most famous for 'Gavin & Stacey'
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2011 15 years ago — 85 years old

An actress from Wales, contributed significantly to British television and film. Best recognized for roles in the series 'Gavin & Stacey' and 'The Basil Brush Show'. Her career spanned several decades, showcasing a range of characters that resonated with audiences. Participated in various theatrical productions, earning accolades for her performances. Appeared in notable television programs, solidifying a prominent position in the acting world. 'Gavin & Stacey' particularly highlighted her talent, further establishing her as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

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Christine Jorgensen

American transgender rights advocate
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1989 36 years ago — 63 years old

Transgender rights advocacy began following transition in 1952, raising awareness of transgender issues in the U.S. through personal narrative and media appearances. Gained fame as the first American to receive sex reassignment surgery after World War II. Became a public speaker and author, contributing to discussions on gender identity and representation. Participated in various television shows and interviews, influencing perceptions of transgender individuals.

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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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Arthur H. Rosenfeld

American physicist and energy advocate
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2017 9 years ago — 91 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in energy efficiency and conservation. Served as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley and as a commissioner of the California Energy Commission. Played a vital role in the development of energy-saving technologies and policies that shaped modern energy use in the United States.

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G. S. Shivarudrappa

Indian poet and educator
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old

An influential poet and educator, contributed significantly to Kannada literature. Advocated for the use of Kannada language in education and promoted literary culture through his works. Served as a professor and worked in various educational institutions, shaping the literary landscape in Karnataka. Authored several poetry collections, reflecting the nuances of life and nature.

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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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Jesse L. Brown

Naval aviator and pilot officer
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1950 75 years ago — 24 years old

First African-American naval aviator served in the United States Navy. Commissioned as an ensign in 1947, became a pioneer in military aviation. Flew combat missions during the Korean War while attached to fighter squadron VF-32. Died in action on December 4, 1950, when his aircraft was shot down over enemy territory.

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Fabrizio de Miranda

Italian engineer, Rande Bridge co-designer
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2015 11 years ago — 89 years old

An Italian engineer and academic contributed significantly to civil engineering, particularly in bridge design. Collaborated with others to co-design the Rande Bridge, located in Galicia, Spain. This bridge, which opened in 1995, is recognized for its unique cable-stayed architecture and plays a critical role in transportation in the region. Held academic positions, focusing on structural engineering and contributing to the education of future engineers. Published numerous papers and participated in various engineering conferences, offering insights into modern bridge construction techniques.

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