What Happened This Year 1946

People Who Died in 1946

Paul Langevin

French physicist and academic
Born
January 23rd, 1872 153 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1946 78 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.

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John A. Sampson

Gynecologist and medical academic
Born
August 17th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1946 78 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.

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W. C. Fields

Comedian and actor in classic films
Born
January 29th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1946 78 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.

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Elie Nadelman

Polish-American sculptor and artist
Born
February 20th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1946 78 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.

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Camillo Schumann

German composer and organist
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1946 78 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.

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Fritz Sauckel

German sailor and politician
Born
October 27th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 52 years old

Born in Germany in 1894, a career spanned both sailing and politics. Played a significant role in maritime policies and held various political positions throughout the career. Focused on the development of sailing in Germany, promoting national interests in maritime affairs. Active in politics during a tumultuous period in German history, influencing legislative matters and governmental strategies. Contributions to the sailing community included fostering international competitions and collaborations.

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Simon Flexner

American physician and educator
Born
March 25th, 1863 161 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of medicine through research on infectious diseases and the development of vaccines. Served as the first director of the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research, leading groundbreaking studies in immunology. Published extensively in medical literature, influencing both clinical practice and public health. Held various academic positions, shaping future generations of medical professionals through education and mentorship.

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Arthur James Arnot

Engineer, designed Spencer Street Power Station
Born
August 26th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 81 years old

An engineer active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, played a significant role in the development of electrical infrastructure in Australia. Migrated from Scotland to Australia, where contributions to the field of engineering were notable. Designed the Spencer Street Power Station in Melbourne, one of the first major power stations in the region. This project played a vital role in supplying electricity to the growing urban population and contributed to the industrial advancement of Melbourne.

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Wilhelm Frick

German politician and federal minister
Born
March 12th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the German Federal Minister of the Interior from 1933 to 1943. Played a significant role in the administrative policies of the Nazi regime, overseeing various aspects of internal affairs and law enforcement. Involved in drafting and implementing numerous laws that facilitated the persecution and expulsion of Jewish citizens and other minority groups during the regime's rule. Contributed to the establishment of police structures that enforced the regime's policies and maintained state security.

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