What Happened This Year 1946

People Who Died in 1946

László Moholy-Nagy

Hungarian painter and photographer
Born
July 20th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 51 years old

A prominent figure in the Bauhaus movement, this individual contributed significantly to modern art and design through innovative use of materials and techniques. His work in painting, photography, and sculpture explored the relationship between art and technology. In the 1920s, collaborated with various artists and taught at the Bauhaus, influencing a generation of designers and artists. After moving to the United States, continued to promote progressive ideas in art education and visual media. Established the New Bauhaus in Chicago, fostering new talents in arts and design.

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Ernst Kaltenbrunner

Austrian-German lawyer and military leader
Born
October 4th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1903, this individual served as a high-ranking official in the SS during World War II. As a lawyer, held various legal positions before joining the Nazi regime. Became chief of the Reich Main Security Office, overseeing key operations related to security and intelligence. Captured after the war and tried at the Nuremberg Trials, received a death sentence for war crimes.

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Ananda Mahidol

King Rama VIII of Thailand
Born
September 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 21 years old

Born in 1925, ascended to the throne of Thailand as King Rama VIII at a young age following the death of the previous monarch. His reign saw political turbulence and efforts towards modernization. During World War II, the king faced challenges due to Japanese occupation. The king's life ended tragically in 1946 under mysterious circumstances. His legacy continued through the establishment of educational and healthcare initiatives in Thailand.

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Laurette Taylor

Irish-American actress and playwright
Born
April 1st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent stage actress, this individual gained recognition through performances in Broadway productions during the early 20th century. Significant works include roles in 'The Bird of Paradise', which showcased talent and helped establish a successful career. Additionally, wrote and performed in plays that highlighted her artistic vision. The actress's work resonated with audiences and critics alike, particularly noted for emotional depth and compelling presence on stage.

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Frederick Francis IV

Grand Duke and last ruler of Mecklenburg-Schwerin
Born
April 9th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1882, a German noble who served as the last grand duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin from 1913 until the abolition of the monarchy in 1918. During World War I, he took on a ceremonial role while the actual governance was largely managed by others. The grand duchy was part of the German Empire, and Frederick's reign coincided with significant political changes in Germany. Following the war and the German Revolution, he abdicated and spent time in exile in various countries before settling in Germany. His contributions included attempts to modernize the administration of the duchy, although his reign was ultimately defined by the tumultuous events of the early 20th century.

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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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Carl Gustav Witt

German astronomer, discovered asteroids
Born
October 29th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 80 years old

A notable astronomer focused on celestial objects, contributed significantly to the discovery of several asteroids during the early 20th century. Conducted extensive observations and elaborated on methods for identifying non-planetary bodies within the Solar System. Worked at the Berlin Observatory where many discoveries took place. Developed systems for tracking and cataloging asteroids, providing essential data that benefitted future astronomers.

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Walter Dandy

Neurosurgeon and medical innovator
Born
April 6th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent physician and neurosurgeon, contributions included significant advancements in the field of neurosurgery. Developed pioneering techniques for treating brain tumors and hydrocephalus. Instrumental in the establishment of the principles of modern neurosurgery with a focus on intracranial pressure and brain anatomy. Contributed to the evolution of surgical methods, enhancing patient outcomes. Authored numerous articles in medical journals, influencing future generations of neurosurgeons.

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Sidney Hillman

Labor leader and union organizer
Born
March 23rd, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 59 years old

Born in Lithuania, became a prominent labor leader in the United States after immigrating. Co-founded the Amalgamated Clothing Workers of America, serving as its first president. Advocated for workers' rights during the early to mid-20th century and played a key role in shaping labor policies. Engaged in various political activities, aligning with New Deal policies and collaborating with prominent labor and political figures.

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