What Happened This Year 1946

People Who Died in 1946

Hans Frank

German lawyer, Governor-General of Poland
Born
May 23rd, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 46 years old

A German lawyer and politician, served as the Governor-General of occupied Poland during World War II. Held significant power in the administration of German-occupied territories. Frank's legal background influenced his governance in Poland, where he implemented policies that led to extensive persecution and oppression of the Polish and Jewish populations. Post-war, he was tried by the International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

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Mamie Smith

American singer and actress of 'Crazy Blues'
Born
May 26th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1883, this artist gained fame as a singer, actress, dancer, and pianist. Smith's recording of 'Crazy Blues' in 1920 marked a pivotal moment in music history, being one of the first records to feature a Black woman as a lead artist. This work helped to popularize the blues genre and opened doors for African American artists in the music industry. In addition to her music career, Smith performed in vaudeville and appeared in several films throughout the 1920s and 1930s, showcasing her talents as an entertainer. Smith's influence extended beyond her era, laying the groundwork for future generations of musicians and performers.

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Logan Pearsall Smith

Critic and author of 'On Reading' and essays
Born
October 18th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
1946 79 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.

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Julius Streicher

German publisher of Der Stürmer
Born
February 12th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1946 79 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.

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John L. Bates

American Lawyer and Governor of Massachusetts
Born
September 18th, 1859 165 years ago
Died
1946 79 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.

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Alfred Rosenberg

Architect and politician; Reich Minister
Born
January 12th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 53 years old

Born in Estonia, a noted architect and politician emerged as an influential figure in Nazi Germany. Served as the Reich Minister for the Occupied Eastern Territories, overseeing administrative and political matters in the eastern regions during World War II. Contributed to the development of policy regarding Eastern Europe and its populations. His writings and theories on Aryan culture and heritage significantly influenced Nazi ideology. Involved in the Party's expansion beyond Germany, promoting aggressive territorial policies.

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James Thomas Milton Anderson

Canadian politician, 5th Premier of Saskatchewan
Born
July 23rd, 1878 146 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1878, a prominent lawyer and politician in Canada served as the 5th Premier of Saskatchewan from 1921 to 1922. Focused on progressive education reform and public health initiatives during the tenure. Efforts contributed to the establishment of various social services in the province. Played a significant role in Saskatchewan's early political landscape, influencing provincial policies for future administrators.

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Donald Meek

Stage and film actor in 1930s cinema
Born
July 14th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 68 years old

A Scottish-American stage and film actor, Meek made significant contributions to the film industry in the 1930s. He appeared in a range of films, gaining recognition for his performances. Meek's career included extensive work on stage before transitioning to cinema, where he portrayed various characters that showcased his acting abilities. His roles in classic films played an essential part in the development of character acting in Hollywood. He established a reputation as a reliable actor and was often cast in supporting roles. His work during this era left a notable imprint on the industry.

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Harlan F. Stone

Chief Justice of the United States
Born
October 11th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the 12th Chief Justice of the United States from 1941 until death in 1946. Appointed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, contributed to significant legal decisions during a pivotal time in American history. Prior to the Supreme Court appointment, held the position of Attorney General of the United States from 1924 to 1925. Played a key role in shaping U.S. law and governance during mid-20th century.

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