What Happened This Year 1946

People Who Died in 1946

Paul Langevin

French physicist and academic
Born
January 23rd, 1872 154 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1946 79 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in ultrasonics and the development of the piezoelectric effect. Developed the concept of Langevin dynamics in statistical physics. Authored numerous papers and textbooks that influenced the understanding of wave propagation and quantum mechanics. Participated in scientific organizations and promoted the application of physics in various industries.

Continue Reading

John A. Sampson

Gynecologist and medical academic
Born
August 17th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1946 79 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of gynecology with a focus on pelvic surgery. Served as a professor at various medical institutions, where education and research were prioritized. Conducted extensive research on conditions affecting women's health and introduced innovative surgical techniques. Published numerous articles in medical journals, providing valuable insights into gynecological practices.

Continue Reading

W. C. Fields

Comedian and actor in classic films
Born
January 29th, 1880 146 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1946 79 years ago — 66 years old

An American actor, comedian, and screenwriter, primarily active from the 1920s to the 1940s. Gained popularity through stage performances and became a significant figure in early Hollywood cinema. Featured in classic films such as 'It's a Gift' and 'The Bank Dick,' often portraying curmudgeonly characters with a distinctively humorous style. Known for a distinctive comedic persona that included a penchant for wit and a cynical view of life. Fields also worked in vaudeville and wrote many of his own screenplays, which highlighted his talent for both comedy and storytelling.

Continue Reading

Elie Nadelman

Polish-American sculptor and artist
Born
February 20th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1946 79 years ago — 64 years old

A Polish-American sculptor and artist, contributed to the development of modern sculpture in the early 20th century. Nadelman established a reputation with his stylized figures and ornamental designs, drawing inspiration from classical themes and folk art. Relocating to the United States, Nadelman became involved in the New York art scene and cultivated relationships with prominent artists and collectors. His works often featured themes of romance and femininity. Nadelman's major public commissions include the design of the bronze gates for the New York Public Library. The artist also produced a significant body of work in plaster, stone, and wood, maintaining a strong interest in expressionism throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Camillo Schumann

German composer and organist
Born
1872 154 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1946 79 years ago — 74 years old

Born in Germany, contributed to the field of music as a composer and organist. Schumann's works included choral and organ compositions, with a focus on sacred music. He was involved in numerous performances and festivals, showcasing various musical pieces. His dedication to music education also played a significant role in his career, influencing future generations of musicians. Schumann's legacy is represented through compositions that continue to be performed in churches and concert halls.

Continue Reading

John L. Bates

American Lawyer and Governor of Massachusetts
Born
September 18th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
1946 80 years ago — 87 years old

Served as the 41st Governor of Massachusetts from 1925 to 1929. Graduated from Harvard Law School, beginning a career in law and politics. Worked as a lawyer before entering public service. Focused on economic development and infrastructure during gubernatorial tenure. Promoted initiatives aimed at improving education and public welfare.

Continue Reading

Julius Streicher

German publisher of Der Stürmer
Born
February 12th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1946 80 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent German publisher, founded and edited the anti-Semitic newspaper Der Stürmer. Actively participated in the Nazi Party, promoting its ideology through print media. Streicher was a key figure in disseminating propaganda that fostered anti-Semitic sentiments in Germany during the 1930s and 1940s. The newspaper played a significant role in shaping public perception and attitudes towards Jews leading up to and during World War II.

Continue Reading

Logan Pearsall Smith

Critic and author of 'On Reading' and essays
Born
October 18th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1946 80 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1865, an American-English author and critic, contributed to literary culture through essays and critiques. Focused on themes of reading, literature, and the nuances of language. Engaged with the Bloomsbury Group and influenced contemporary thought through detailed analysis and commentary. Demonstrated a particular affinity for essays that explored the art of reading and the importance of literature in society. Left a legacy as a literary critic with a profound understanding of the written word and its impact on life.

Continue Reading

Charles Wakefield Cadman

American composer and music critic
Born
December 24th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1946 80 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1881, a composer recognized for contributions to American classical music, particularly in the early 20th century. Specialized in writing operas and orchestral works that often incorporated Native American themes and melodies. Composed the opera "Shanewis," which premiered in 1918 and played a significant role in showcasing American cultural narratives. Worked as a music critic, providing insights into the classical music scene during his era.

Continue Reading