What Happened This Year 1946

People Who Died in 1946

Clemens August Graf von Galen

German cardinal and anti-Nazi opponent
Born
March 16th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1878, significant contributions to the Catholic Church occurred during the early to mid-20th century. Served as the Bishop of Münster from 1933 until death in 1946. Played a crucial role in opposing Nazi policies, particularly during the euthanasia program, delivering sermons that condemned the regime's actions. His outspoken nature garnered both national and international attention, leading to a posthumous elevation in the Church hierarchy. Elevated to the rank of Cardinal in 1946, shortly before death.

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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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Walter Dandy

Neurosurgeon and medical innovator
Born
April 6th, 1886 138 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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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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Oskar Kallas

Estonian linguist and diplomat
Born
October 25th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent linguist and diplomat, contributed significantly to the development of the Estonian language and its standards. Played a crucial role in the formation of the Estonian Academy of Sciences. Served as the first Estonian ambassador to the United States and worked on improving Estonia's international relations. Authored several works on linguistics and translated important texts, enhancing the cultural understanding of Estonia.

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Marcel Petiot

French physician and serial killer
Born
January 17th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 49 years old

A physician practiced medicine in France during the early 20th century. Associated with numerous suspicious deaths, allegations of his involvement circulated widely in Paris during World War II. Posing as a resistance fighter, facilitated the escape of several individuals under the pretext of aiding them. However, investigations revealed the grim truth of his actions when the remains of multiple victims were discovered in his home. In 1946, faced trial for his crimes, receiving a death sentence and executed the following year.

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Joachim von Ribbentrop

German Foreign Minister during WWII
Born
April 30th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 53 years old

Served as the 14th German Reich Minister for Foreign Affairs from 1938 to 1945. Played a significant role in Nazi Germany's foreign policy and diplomatic relations leading up to and during World War II. Instrumental in negotiating the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, a non-aggression treaty between Germany and the Soviet Union in 1939. Held influence over Germany's alliances and conflicts throughout the war, promoting military strategies and expansionist policies.

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Arthur Dove

American painter and educator
Born
August 2nd, 1880 144 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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Paul Nash

British painter of war landscapes
Born
May 11th, 1889 135 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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