What Happened This Year 1946

People Who Died in 1946

Sada Yacco

Japanese actress and dancer, first star
Born
July 18th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 75 years old

Pioneering Japanese actress and dancer gained prominence in the late 19th century. Started career in kabuki theater, later transitioned to Western-style performances and became an icon of the taisho era. Established a significant presence in the United States, where she introduced Japanese theatrical art to American audiences. Notably performed in productions that showcased traditional Japanese culture, enhancing cultural exchange between Japan and the West. Also contributed to the development of modern performance art in Japan.

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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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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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Charles Wakefield Cadman

American composer and music critic
Born
December 24th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
1946 79 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.

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Antoinette Perry

Actress and director of 'Mary Poppins'
Born
June 27th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 58 years old

An influential actress and director in American theater, contributed to the Broadway scene from the 1920s until the 1940s. Directed several productions, including the original Broadway production of 'Mary Poppins'. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Tony Awards, which honor outstanding achievements in American theater. Also worked as an actress in various stage productions, showcasing talent and creativity.

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