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 152 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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Paul Nash

British painter of war landscapes
Born
May 11th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 57 years old

A significant British painter, associated with the British Surrealism movement. Engaged as an official war artist during World War I, captured the devastation of battlefields through evocative landscapes. Participated in various exhibitions throughout the 20th century, influencing the artistic representation of war. Published several writings on art and painting, contributing to the discourse within the art community.

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Georg Åberg

Swedish triple jumper, Olympic athlete
Born
January 20th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1893, a Swedish athlete specialized in triple jump. Competed in the 1912 Summer Olympics held in Stockholm, representing Sweden. Achieved significant success in various competitions during the early 20th century, solidifying a reputation as a prominent figure in athletics. Focused on developing techniques in the triple jump discipline while contributing to the sport's growth in Sweden.

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Felix Hoffmann

German chemist and aspirin inventor
Born
January 21st, 1868 157 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Germany, one of the significant contributions to the field of medicine included the synthesis of acetylsalicylic acid in 1897, leading to the development of aspirin. This compound became widely recognized for its effectiveness as a pain reliever. Hoffmann worked for Bayer, where the commercialization of aspirin took place, revolutionizing pain management treatments. Additionally, Hoffmann contributed to the synthesis of other pharmaceuticals, impacting medical practices in the early 20th century.

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Arthur Dove

American painter and educator
Born
August 2nd, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 66 years old

A significant figure in the American art scene, contributed to the development of modern American abstraction. Primarily worked in painting and is considered one of the earliest American abstractionists. Dove's style evolved throughout his career, incorporating elements of nature and abstraction. His paintings often depict landscapes and organic forms using a vibrant palette. In addition to painting, he taught and influenced many artists. His works have been included in major exhibitions and have garnered attention for their innovative approach to color and form.

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