What Happened This Year 1926

Born in 1926

Mary Stuart

Actress and singer from 'The Secret Life of Bees'
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
February 28th, 2002 24 years ago — 76 years old

An American actress and singer gained recognition for roles in film and television. Early career included appearances in various shows, culminating in a prominent role in 'The Secret Life of Bees'. Worked in musical theater, showcasing vocal talent in several productions. Active in the entertainment industry until 2002.

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Jeanne Martin Cissé

Guinean teacher and politician
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2017 9 years ago — 91 years old

A notable figure in Guinean education and politics, she served as a teacher and was an advocate for women's rights. Cissé held various key positions in the Guinean government, including Minister of Women's Affairs. In the 1980s, she became a member of the National Assembly, where she worked to promote social and political issues affecting women and children. Cissé also represented Guinea at international forums, including the United Nations, contributing to discussions on women's empowerment and education.

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A. R. Ammons

American poet and critic of acclaimed poetry
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2001 25 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent poet and critic contributed significantly to American literature. Early works displayed a deep fascination with nature and existential themes, melding personal reflection with a broader exploration of human experience. Key publications include 'Sphere: The Form of a Poem' and 'Garbage', which reflect innovative stylistic choices and thematic depth. Won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1973 for 'Nebraska'. Served as a professor at several universities, influencing generations of writers and poets.

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Peter Alexander

Austrian singer and actor, hosted shows
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2011 15 years ago — 85 years old

A celebrated figure in Austrian entertainment, gained fame as a singer and comedian. Achieved widespread popularity through musical performances and television appearances. Starred in numerous films and hosted successful television shows, contributing significantly to the Austrian cultural landscape. Maintained a prolific career spanning several decades, leaving a lasting legacy in entertainment until death in 2011.

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Kid Gavilán

Cuban-American boxing champion
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2003 23 years ago — 77 years old

Competed as a welterweight boxer between 1945 and 1956. Achieved significant success, capturing the World Welterweight title in 1951. Fought prominent opponents such as Sugar Ray Robinson and Carmen Basilio during career. Noted for a unique fighting style that combined speed and power. Concluded professional career with 108 wins, 30 losses, and 6 draws, establishing a strong legacy in boxing.

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Jackie Pallo

Professional wrestler and television actor
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2006 20 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent English professional wrestler and television actor. Gained fame in the wrestling arena during the mid-20th century, captivating audiences with a flamboyant wrestling persona. Also appeared in various television shows, notably starring in the popular series 'Celebrity Squares'. Contributed to the popularization of wrestling in Britain during the wrestling boom era. Transitioned smoothly between sport and entertainment, showcasing talent in both fields.

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Ed Derwinski

U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2012 14 years ago — 86 years old

Served as an American soldier before entering politics, holding the position of the first Secretary of Veterans Affairs in the United States. Worked to improve services and benefits for veterans during a period of significant reform. Represented Illinois in the House of Representatives from 1983 to 1993, focusing on veterans' issues and military service. Contributed to establishing policies and programs aimed at supporting former service members.

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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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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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