What Happened This Year 1946

Historical Events from This Year 1946

Accidents & Tragedies

DC-4 Crash Near Ernest Harmon Air Force Base

October 3rd, 1946 78 years ago

A Douglas DC-4 operated by American Overseas Airlines crashed near Ernest Harmon Air Force Base while attempting to land. The incident resulted in the deaths of 39 individuals on board. The aircraft was returning from a flight and faced adverse weather conditions during its final approach. Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene, but the circumstances of the crash led to a swift investigation into the causes.

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Politics & Government

France Establishes Fourth Republic Constitution

October 13th, 1946 78 years ago

On this day, the French Constituent Assembly ratified the Constitution of the Fourth Republic, marking a significant transition in the French political landscape. The new constitution was framed after World War II to restore democracy and address the political instability faced in the preceding years under the Vichy regime. This constitutional framework aimed to balance power among various branches of government and included provisions for a strong executive, while also promoting parliamentary authority.

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Politics & Government

Nuremberg Trials Executions of Key Defendants

October 16th, 1946 78 years ago

Ten prominent Nazi leaders were executed by hanging following the Nuremberg Trials, where they were found guilty of war crimes. The trials, held in Nuremberg, Germany, represented a pivotal moment in the accountability for actions during World War II. The defendants included notable figures such as Hermann Göring and Joachim von Ribbentrop. In total, twelve individuals were sentenced to death by hanging, but two men did not meet the same fate, one died before execution and the other was acquitted. The executions were carried out at the Nuremberg Prison.

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Economics & Industry

Engineers Relocated to the Soviet Union

October 22nd, 1946 78 years ago

Over 2,200 engineers and technicians, along with their families and equipment, were relocated from Eastern Germany to the Soviet Union. This forced migration was part of broader efforts by the Soviet authorities to leverage German expertise in rebuilding the war-torn Soviet economy. The relocations occurred in the aftermath of World War II, highlighting the geopolitical tensions and shifts in power that characterized the period.

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Space Exploration

First Photograph of Earth from Outer Space

October 24th, 1946 78 years ago

A camera onboard the V-2 No. 13 rocket took the first photograph of Earth from outer space, capturing a stunning view of the planet at an altitude of 105 kilometers. This significant milestone was achieved during a rocket test flight conducted at the White Sands Proving Ground in New Mexico, USA. The mission aimed to collect data for military and scientific purposes, showcasing the capabilities of rocket technology and the new perspective of Earth from above.

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Politics & Government

Japan adopts new constitution through emperor's approval

November 3rd, 1946 78 years ago

The Constitution of Japan was formally adopted following the emperor's assent. This pivotal legal framework established Japan as a constitutional monarchy and laid the groundwork for democracy in the nation. In a ceremonial event, Emperor Hirohito endorsed the new constitution, marking a significant shift from the militaristic government prior to World War II. The constitution emphasized universal suffrage, the rule of law, and the renunciation of war, significantly altering Japan's governance and its role on the global stage.

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Natural Disasters

Devastating Earthquake Strikes Peruvian Andes

November 10th, 1946 78 years ago

A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck the Peruvian Andes, killing at least 1,400 individuals and causing widespread destruction. The mainshock occurred near the town of Yungay, leading to landslides and significant building collapses. Rescue operations faced challenging terrain and access difficulties, impeding efforts to save survivors. The quake highlighted the region's vulnerability to seismic events and underscored the necessity for better preparedness and infrastructure improvements.

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Military & Warfare

Battle of Margarana: Fatal Clash with Dutch Forces

November 20th, 1946 78 years ago

In the Battle of Margarana, a fierce confrontation occurred between Indonesian nationalist forces and Dutch troops, resulting in the deaths of 96 Indonesians, including notable leader I Gusti Ngurah Rai. The battle took place in Bali, a pivotal area for Indonesian independence efforts. Fought over control and sovereignty, the conflict highlighted the resilience of nationalist fighters in their struggle against colonial powers.

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Military & Warfare

French Bombardment of Hai Phong Causes Civilian Deaths

November 23rd, 1946 78 years ago

The French naval forces conducted a severe bombardment of Hai Phong, Vietnam, resulting in the deaths of thousands of civilians. This military action was aimed at suppressing anti-colonial sentiment and maintaining control over French Indochina, reflecting the tensions in the region following World War II. The aftermath saw significant destruction and drew international attention to the situation in Vietnam.

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