What Happened This Year 1926

Born in 1926

Sidney Bryan Berry

American general, military leader
Born
February 10th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2013 11 years ago — 87 years old

Served as a United States Army general, with notable leadership roles during and after the Vietnam War. Commanded the 7th Infantry Division and played an important role in military strategies in Asia. Contributed to various military operations and assessments that shaped U.S. military policy in the region. Participated in military exercises that aimed to enhance readiness and collaboration among NATO allies. Retired with a lasting influence on military training and operations.

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Danny Blanchflower

Northern Irish footballer and manager
Born
February 10th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1993 31 years ago — 67 years old

Played as a right half for Tottenham Hotspur and represented Northern Ireland in international competitions. Managed several clubs following retirement from playing. Achieved success in both roles, contributing significantly to football during the mid-20th century.

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Leslie Nielsen

Actor in comedy films and series
Born
February 11th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2010 14 years ago — 84 years old

A Canadian-American actor and producer achieved recognition for performances in the genre of comedy. Significant roles included appearances in the 'Airplane!' film series and the television series 'Police Squad!' which parodied police dramas. Transitioning from drama to comedy, delivered memorable performances characterized by deadpan humor. Enjoyed a lengthy career spanning several decades, making a mark in both film and television.

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Paul Bocuse

French chef with culinary contributions
Born
February 11th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2018 7 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in the culinary world, this chef revolutionized French cuisine in the 20th century. He was a pioneer of the Nouvelle Cuisine movement, which emphasized fresh ingredients and lighter dishes. Operating the prestigious restaurant L'Auberge du Pont de Collonges, he earned three Michelin stars, a distinction maintained for over five decades. The chef trained many renowned chefs and established the Bocuse d'Or, an international cooking competition that celebrates culinary excellence.

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Joe Garagiola

Baseball Player and Sports Broadcaster
Born
February 12th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2016 8 years ago — 90 years old

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1946 to 1954, primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Giants, and Chicago Cubs. Transitioned to sports broadcasting after retirement, becoming a prominent commentator. Served as a host for the television game show 'The Today Show' along with baseball coverage on NBC. Authored a memoir titled 'Baseball is a Funny Game', reflecting on experiences in the sport.

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Charles Van Doren

American academic and quiz show contestant
Born
February 12th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2019 5 years ago — 93 years old

An academic and quiz show contestant gained national attention through participation in the television quiz show 'Twenty-One'. This role brought controversies surrounding quiz show ethics to light. During the 1950s, considerable public interest followed the revelations of the scripted nature of quiz shows. After the scandal, pursued a career in education and writing, focusing on topics related to literature and culture. Served as a professor at Columbia University and authored several works, contributing to discussions on the role of education in society.

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Rolf Brem

Swiss sculptor and illustrator
Born
February 12th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2014 10 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Switzerland in 1926, this individual was a prominent sculptor and illustrator. A strong emphasis on form and material characterized sculpture work. In addition to sculptures, the artist also created illustrations that showcased a distinct style. Contributions to public art projects and collaborations with galleries highlighted the artistic journey. The work significantly contributed to the Swiss art scene over several decades.

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Fay Ajzenberg-Selove

Nuclear Physicist with key research
Born
February 13th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2012 12 years ago — 86 years old

An American nuclear physicist contributed significantly to the field of nuclear physics, particularly in the study of nuclear reactions. Secured a faculty position at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, specializing in experimental nuclear physics. Published several influential papers that advanced understanding of nuclear structures and reactions. A strong advocate for women in science, promoting their participation in the field throughout her career.

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Margot Frank

Holocaust victim and diary author
Born
February 16th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 19 years old

Born in Germany in 1926, a Jewish girl faced persecution during World War II. In 1933, fled to the Netherlands with the family to escape Nazi discrimination. In 1942, went into hiding in Amsterdam with the family to avoid deportation. This period was documented in a diary, providing insight into life in hiding. Arrested in 1944 and deported to Auschwitz and later to Bergen-Belsen, where she died in early 1945.

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