What Happened This Year 1946

Historical Events from This Year 1946 (View all 119)

Sports & Recreation

George Woolf suffers fatal racing accident

January 3rd, 1946 79 years ago

George Woolf, a prominent jockey, suffered a concussion during a freak racing accident which led to his death the following day. Woolf was known for his exceptional riding skills and had a significant impact on the sport. The incident occurred during a race in California, and it shocked the horse racing community, prompting a reevaluation of safety measures in the sport. To honor his contributions, the annual George Woolf Memorial Jockey Award was established, recognizing exceptional riders in the industry.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Devastating Tornado Outbreak Across the South-Central US

January 4th, 1946 79 years ago

A severe tornado outbreak wreaked havoc across the south-central United States, resulting in significant loss of life and injuries. Over the course of three days, the tornadoes caused destruction in multiple states, leaving communities devastated. The first day alone saw 41 fatalities and more than 400 injuries, drawing attention to the need for improved meteorological warnings and disaster preparedness. The storms, characterized by their intensity, left a lasting impression on the regions affected and on national disaster response strategies.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

First General Election in Vietnam Takes Place

January 6th, 1946 79 years ago

The first general election in Vietnam allowed citizens to vote for representatives in a national assembly. This election was a significant step towards establishing a democratic government after years of colonial rule. The election involved various political factions, including the Viet Minh, and took place throughout Vietnam. The electoral process aimed to give the Vietnamese people a voice in their governance as the country sought to assert its independence from French colonial powers.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Interrogation Report Submitted to Finnish Court

January 8th, 1946 79 years ago

Andrei Zhdanov presented to the Finnish War Criminal Court an interrogation report from General Erich Buschenhagen, a German POW. The report detailed the interactions between Finnish and German military personnel prior to the Continuation War and included a copy of Hitler's Barbarossa plan, highlighting the connections between Finland and Nazi Germany during the conflict.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

First United Nations General Assembly Session

January 10th, 1946 79 years ago

The first General Assembly of the United Nations convened in London, marking a significant step in international diplomacy. Fifty-one nations participated, with representatives coming together to discuss global issues following World War II. The Methodist Central Hall provided a historic and symbolic venue, reflecting the hope for peace and cooperation. Delegates were eager to establish a framework for collective security and international collaboration.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

First Successful Radio Transmission to the Moon

January 10th, 1946 79 years ago

In a groundbreaking achievement, the United States Army Signal Corps successfully bounced radio waves off the Moon and received the reflected signals. This experiment, known as Project Diana, took place at the Camp Evans Radar Site in New Jersey. The purpose was to demonstrate the feasibility of using the Moon as a medium for radio communication. The success of this project opened new avenues for long-distance communication and radar technology, positioning the United States as a leader in early space exploration initiatives.

Continue Reading

Born in 1946 (View all 752)

Rivellino

Brazilian footballer and manager
Born
January 1st, 1946 79 years ago

Played as an attacking midfielder and forward, earning recognition in Brazilian football. Had a significant career with Club Corinthians Paulista and later with Fluminense. Represented Brazil in international competitions including the FIFA World Cup, where contributed to the national team's success in 1970. After retiring from professional play, transitioned into football management, coaching various clubs.

Continue Reading

Claude Steele

Social psychologist and academic authority
Born
January 1st, 1946 79 years ago

A significant figure in social psychology, contributions focused on stereotype threat and its effects on educational performance. Served as a professor at Stanford University and held the position of Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost at the University of California, Berkeley. Presented a compelling theory explaining how stereotypes can adversely impact the performance of individuals from marginalized groups. Authored influential works that shaped research in psychology and education.

Continue Reading

Michalis Kritikopoulos

Footballer with AEK Athens legacy
Born
January 3rd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2002 22 years ago — 56 years old

A Greek footballer played as a forward, primarily associated with AEK Athens. His career spanned from the 1960s to the 1970s, where he contributed to the team with skilled performances. He participated in multiple domestic competitions, helping AEK Athens achieve notable success during his tenure. His contributions were significant in the club's campaigns in the Greek Super League.

Continue Reading

John Paul Jones

Bass player and songwriter, Led Zeppelin
Born
January 3rd, 1946 79 years ago

A prominent bass player and songwriter contributed to the formation of the legendary rock band Led Zeppelin. Worked on the band's self-titled debut album, which included classics such as 'Dazed and Confused' and 'Good Times Bad Times.' In addition to performing on bass guitar, also played keyboards and arranged many of the band's songs, showcasing versatility as a musician. After Led Zeppelin disbanded, pursued a successful career in music production and collaboration with various artists across multiple genres.

Continue Reading

Arthur Conley

Singer-songwriter, 'Sweet Soul Music'
Born
January 4th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2003 21 years ago — 57 years old

An American singer-songwriter rose to prominence during the 1960s. Achieved success with the hit single 'Sweet Soul Music,' which reached the top of the charts. Conley contributed to the Southern soul music scene and collaborated with influential artists. His style blended gospel, rhythm and blues, and rock and roll, leaving a lasting imprint on the genre.

Continue Reading

Diane Keaton

Actress and director of Annie Hall
Born
January 5th, 1946 79 years ago

An American actress, director, and businesswoman, influential in the film industry since the early 1970s. Achievements include starring in numerous films and receiving critical acclaim for performances. Best recognized for the role in 'Annie Hall', which won the Academy Award for Best Actress. Directed projects such as 'Unstrung Heroes'. Keaton's career spanned various genres, and she often portrayed unique characters that resonated with audiences. Also published several books on photography and personal reflections.

Continue Reading

People Who Died in 1946 (View all 148)

Joe Darling

Cricketer who led Australia in Test cricket
Born
November 21st, 1870 154 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1946 79 years ago — 75 years old

Played as a prominent cricketer, serving as the captain of the Australian national team during the early 1900s. Darling participated in the first Test match against England in 1877 and was influential in shaping the team's strategies. Following his sports career, he entered politics, representing the Australian House of Representatives. His contributions to both cricket and politics marked a significant dual legacy in Australian history.

Continue Reading

William Joyce

Pro-Axis propaganda broadcaster
Born
April 24th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1946 79 years ago — 39 years old

A broadcaster with a focus on pro-Axis propaganda during World War II, migrated to Germany and began his career with the Nazi regime. Gained attention through radio broadcasts directed at British audiences, creating a distinct identity as 'Lord Haw-Haw'. Captured after the war, faced a trial for treason in the UK.

Continue Reading

Countee Cullen

American poet and playwright
Born
May 30th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1946 79 years ago — 42 years old

A prominent figure during the Harlem Renaissance, the individual contributed significantly to American literature through poetry and plays. The work often explored themes of race, identity, and society, with a notable emphasis on African American experiences. Notable poetry collections include 'Color' and 'Copper Sun'. The individual also wrote plays that were performed in New York, enriching the cultural fabric of the era. In addition to literary achievements, involvement in various artistic and social circles characterized this person's career, fostering connections among contemporary thinkers and artists.

Continue Reading

Matti Turkia

Finnish politician and public servant
Born
February 26th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1946 79 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a prominent Finnish politician during the early to mid-20th century, contributing to the political landscape of Finland. Held various political positions, including membership in the Finnish Parliament. Focused on social and economic reforms that shaped the country during a transformative period. Engaged in political debates concerning national issues and participated in policies aimed at improving the welfare of Finnish citizens. His tenure coincided with significant events in Finnish history, including the aftermath of World War II.

Continue Reading

Morris Alexander

South African politician and lawyer
Born
December 4th, 1877 147 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1946 79 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent South African politician and lawyer, Alexander played a significant role in the political landscape during the early 20th century. He served as a member of the South African Parliament and was known for his advocacy on behalf of the rights of the Indian community in South Africa. Alexander participated in several legal and political initiatives aimed at addressing social injustices faced by marginalized groups. His contributions to the political discourse of the time highlighted critical issues regarding race relations and civil rights in the country.

Continue Reading

Adriaan van Maanen

Astronomer, discovered spiral galaxies
Born
March 31st, 1884 140 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1946 79 years ago — 61 years old

Contributions included extensive research in astronomy, particularly the study of spiral galaxies. Developed methods for measuring the distances to nebulae. Published several significant papers that advanced the understanding of the structure of galaxies. Worked at Mount Wilson Observatory and later became a professor at the California Institute of Technology.

Continue Reading