What Happened This Year 1926

Born in 1926

Lizbeth Webb

English soprano and actress in opera
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old

An English soprano and actress gained recognition for performances in musical theatre and opera. Webb originated the role of Clara in the 1945 production of 'Porgy and Bess' at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. She also played leading roles in various British operatic productions and concerts, showcasing a strong vocal range. In addition to stage performances, recorded works include numerous collaborations that feature her singing. Over the years, Webb continued to influence the genre through her performances until her death in 2013.

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Louis Pienaar

South African lawyer and diplomat
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2012 12 years ago — 86 years old

A South African lawyer and diplomat held the position of Minister of Internal Affairs. Contributions to national policy and governance through legal expertise were significant during tenure in the government. Throughout a career focused on public service, fostered development of internal policies and diplomatic relations.

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Lee S. Dreyfus

Governor of Wisconsin
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2008 17 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the 39th Governor of Wisconsin from 1979 to 1983. Elected as a Republican, implemented various reforms during tenure. Prior to his governorship, held roles in academia and was a well-regarded educator. Helped promote higher education initiatives in Wisconsin. Dreyfus also ran for U.S. Senate in 1982 but was unsuccessful.

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Yehuda Bauer

Historian specializing in the Holocaust
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2024 0 years ago — 98 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of Holocaust studies and education. Served as a professor at the Avraham Harman Institute of Contemporary Jewry at Hebrew University. Co-founded the International Institute for Holocaust Research at Yad Vashem. Authored numerous books and articles, providing scholarly analysis and historical context to the events of the Holocaust.

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Jože Toporišič

Slovenian linguist and author of dictionaries
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2014 10 years ago — 88 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of linguistics, focusing on the Slovene language. Authored a comprehensive Slovene dictionary that served as an essential reference for scholars and students alike. Held a position as a professor at the University of Ljubljana, where taught and researched for several decades. Participated in various linguistic associations and committees, promoting the study and preservation of the Slovene language.

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Bibi Titi Mohammed

Tanzanian politician and activist
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2000 24 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent Tanzanian politician and activist, significantly involved in the struggle for independence from colonial rule. Played a crucial role in organizing women’s groups and advocating for gender equality and women's rights in the newly formed nation. Served as a member of the National Assembly and was also appointed as Tanzania's first female Minister for Community Development. Contributed actively to the formation of various policies aimed at improving women's education and health. Engaged in numerous initiatives to enhance the role of women in society and worked towards empowering the female population in Tanzania.

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Norm Sloan

Basketball coach and player
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2003 21 years ago — 77 years old

Contributed significantly to college basketball as a head coach. Coached the University of Florida from 1970 to 1989, achieving notable success in the NCAA tournament. Later served as the athletic director at the same institution. Played at the University of North Carolina and had a subsequent professional career in the NBA.

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Jack Kyle

Rugby player and humanitarian
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
November 27th, 2014 10 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent rugby player, played for Ireland, earning 46 caps from 1946 to 1958. Participated in the 1958 Tour to South Africa, contributing significantly to the team's performance. After retiring from rugby, engaged in humanitarian efforts, particularly in the field of medicine. Worked as a doctor in various capacities, including as a medical officer in the Royal Army Medical Corps.

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Calvin "Fuzz" Jones

American singer and bass player, Blues artist
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2010 14 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent figure in the American Blues scene, contributed to the music industry primarily as a singer and bass player. Played with notable artists and participated in numerous recordings, showcasing talents that greatly influenced the genre. Collaborated with blues musicians and was actively involved in the Chicago music circuit. Gained recognition for performances that highlighted traditional blues elements while also incorporating his unique style. Maintained a strong presence in live performances throughout the 20th century, earning respect among peers and fans alike.

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