What Happened This Year 1946

People Who Died in 1946

Wilhelm Keitel

German field marshal during WWII
Born
September 22nd, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1946 80 years ago — 64 years old

Served as a prominent field marshal in the German Army during World War II. As chief of the Oberkommando der Wehrmacht (OKW), oversaw military operations and strategies from 1938 until the end of the war. Instrumental in several key campaigns across Europe. Captured by Allied forces after Germany's surrender in 1945 and subsequently tried at the Nuremberg Trials.

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Fritz Sauckel

German sailor and politician
Born
October 27th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1946 80 years ago — 52 years old

Born in Germany in 1894, a career spanned both sailing and politics. Played a significant role in maritime policies and held various political positions throughout the career. Focused on the development of sailing in Germany, promoting national interests in maritime affairs. Active in politics during a tumultuous period in German history, influencing legislative matters and governmental strategies. Contributions to the sailing community included fostering international competitions and collaborations.

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Arthur James Arnot

Engineer, designed Spencer Street Power Station
Born
August 26th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1946 80 years ago — 81 years old

An engineer active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, played a significant role in the development of electrical infrastructure in Australia. Migrated from Scotland to Australia, where contributions to the field of engineering were notable. Designed the Spencer Street Power Station in Melbourne, one of the first major power stations in the region. This project played a vital role in supplying electricity to the growing urban population and contributed to the industrial advancement of Melbourne.

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Werner Kolhörster

Physicist specializing in cosmic rays
Born
December 28th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1946 80 years ago — 59 years old

A physicist focused on cosmic rays and atmospheric electricity. Contributed to the understanding of cosmic radiation through experiments in the Earth's atmosphere. Held a professorship at the University of Göttingen and furthered academic knowledge in the field. Developed novel techniques for measuring cosmic rays, influencing future research in high-energy physics.

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Ananda Mahidol

King Rama VIII of Thailand
Born
September 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
1946 80 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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Johannes Vares

Estonian poet and politician
Born
January 12th, 1890 136 years ago
Died
1946 80 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1890, this individual was a prominent Estonian poet, physician, and politician. Medical training was received, which facilitated a career in healthcare. In addition to practicing medicine, significant contributions to literature were made, particularly in poetry. The individual also engaged actively in politics and became a member of the Estonian government during a critical time in the country's history. Efforts included advocating for Estonia's independence and cultural identity, reflecting the political landscape of the early 20th century.

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Carl Gustav Witt

German astronomer, discovered asteroids
Born
October 29th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
1946 80 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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Clemens August Graf von Galen

German cardinal and anti-Nazi opponent
Born
March 16th, 1878 148 years ago
Died
1946 80 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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Oskar Kallas

Estonian linguist and diplomat
Born
October 25th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
1946 80 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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