What Happened This Year 1926

Born in 1926

Kazys Petkevičius

Lithuanian basketball player and coach
Born
January 1st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2008 16 years ago — 82 years old

Played professional basketball in Lithuania and served as a coach later in life. Contributed to the development of the sport in the region. Had a lengthy coaching career and was involved in various basketball programs, mentoring young athletes. His experience in international competitions further shaped Lithuanian basketball.

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Gino Marchetti

American football player, two-time NFL champion
Born
January 2nd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 93 years old

Played as a defensive end in the National Football League, primarily for the Baltimore Colts from 1952 to 1966. Recognized for exceptional skill and tenacity on the field, contributed significantly to the team's success during his tenure. Participated in multiple Pro Bowls and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972. His impact on the game and his position set a standard for future generations of players.

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W. Michael Blumenthal

U.S. Secretary of the Treasury
Born
January 3rd, 1926 99 years ago

A prominent economist and politician, served as the 64th United States Secretary of the Treasury from 1977 to 1978. Focused on economic policies during a challenging period marked by inflation and energy crises. Held various roles in academia and government, contributing to discussions on economic reform and policy. Worked with international financial institutions and provided insights into global economic trends, enhancing cooperation between nations.

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George Martin

English composer and producer for The Beatles
Born
January 3rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
March 8th, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent English composer and record producer, shaped the sound of popular music in the 20th century. Pioneered innovative recording techniques and arrangements, particularly during work with the iconic band The Beatles. Contributed extensively to their albums, including 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band' and 'Abbey Road'. Also served as a conductor and worked with various artists across multiple genres.

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Veikko Karvonen

Finnish long-distance runner, Olympic medalist
Born
January 5th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 81 years old

Competed in long-distance running events, achieving significant success in the 1950s. Won a bronze medal in the 10,000 meters at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. Secured victories in several international events, including the European Championships and the Finnish Championships. Set multiple national records during his athletic career, contributing to the popularity of long-distance running in Finland.

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W. D. Snodgrass

American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
January 5th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2009 16 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1926, this poet gained recognition for personal and confessional poetry. The collection 'Heart's Needle' won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1960, highlighting themes of loss and memory. Contributions to the field included numerous publications in various literary magazines, as well as participation in academia as a teacher. Influence extended to the next generation of poets through workshops and mentorship.

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Hosea Williams

American civil rights activist
Born
January 5th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent civil rights activist, played a significant role in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and was involved in numerous protests during the Civil Rights Movement. Organized and led the 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery, which was crucial in highlighting the struggle for voting rights. Engaged in grassroots organizing and worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. and other leaders. Active in promoting social and economic justice throughout his life.

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Mickey Hargitay

Bodybuilder and actor in 'Hercules'
Born
January 6th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2006 18 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Hungary, a career began in bodybuilding, achieving titles in the 1950s before transitioning to acting. Became prominent in Hollywood, frequently appearing in films and television. Gained recognition for the role of Hercules in the movie 'Hercules in the Haunted World' and for appearances in various television series during the 1960s and 1970s.

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Ralph Branca

Professional Baseball Pitcher
Born
January 6th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2016 8 years ago — 90 years old

A professional baseball pitcher achieved prominence in Major League Baseball (MLB) primarily with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Debuted in 1944 and became recognized for his powerful fastball and durability on the mound. Branca's career included participation in multiple All-Star Games and a significant role in the Dodgers' pennant-winning seasons. The game against the New York Giants in 1951 is particularly remembered for the 'Shot Heard 'Round the World,' where Branca surrendered a legendary home run. Retired with a solid career record and contributed to baseball as a coach and mentor post-retirement.

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