What Happened This Year 1946

Born in 1946

Joseph Mitsuaki Takami

Japanese Cardinal with ecclesiastical influence
Born
March 21st, 1946 78 years ago

Ordained as a priest in 1970, served in various pastoral roles in Japan and became the Archbishop of Nagasaki. Elevated to the rank of cardinal in 2003 by Pope John Paul II. Participated in the papal conclave that elected Pope Benedict XVI in 2005. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and youth ministry, contributing to the Church's outreach efforts in Japan.

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Timothy Dalton

Actor recognized for James Bond role
Born
March 21st, 1946 78 years ago

An actor associated with both stage and screen, gained prominence in the 1980s. Portrayed the iconic character James Bond in the films 'The Living Daylights' and 'Licence to Kill'. Known for a more serious take on the character compared to his predecessors. Participated in numerous theatrical productions, including performances in Shakespearean plays. Engaged in various film and television projects throughout a lengthy career, showcasing versatility in different genres.

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Ray Dorset

Singer-songwriter, lead of Mungo Jerry
Born
March 21st, 1946 78 years ago

An English singer-songwriter and guitarist emerged in the late 1960s as the frontman of the band Mungo Jerry. The group gained widespread popularity with the hit single "In the Summertime," which became a defining song of the era. Dorset's musical style blended rock, folk, and blues, contributing to the band's distinctive sound. Throughout the years, Mungo Jerry released several albums and continued to tour, showcasing a mix of original songs and covers. Dorset's contributions to music extended beyond performing, as he also wrote and composed many of the band's songs. The ongoing legacy of Mungo Jerry in the music industry is illustrated by their enduring popularity and influence.

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Don Chaney

Basketball player and coach; NBA Champion
Born
March 22nd, 1946 78 years ago

A basketball player and coach, he played as a shooting guard in the NBA. His playing career spanned from 1968 to 1981, during which he played for several teams including the Boston Celtics, achieving an NBA Championship in 1974. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching, leading multiple teams in the NBA and serving as an assistant coach as well. His coaching career included stints with the Houston Rockets and the Boston Celtics, contributing to the development of players and strategies.

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Rudy Rucker

Mathematician and science fiction author
Born
March 22nd, 1946 78 years ago

An American mathematician, computer scientist, and author who contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and computational science. Rucker's works often blend science and philosophy with imaginative narratives. He has written numerous science fiction novels, notably the 'Ware Tetralogy', which explores concepts of consciousness, reality, and artificial intelligence. Rucker's academic career included teaching roles at various universities, where he focused on mathematics and computer science. Additionally, he was involved in the development of innovative ideas within the realms of cellular automata and theoretical computer science.

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Harry Vanda

Singer-songwriter and producer
Born
March 22nd, 1946 78 years ago

Born in the Netherlands and later moving to Australia, this individual gained prominence as a singer-songwriter and producer. Collaborating with fellow musician George Young, created significant music within the Australian rock scene. Contributed to the music industry as a member of The Easybeats, a band recognized for hits in the 1960s, including 'Friday On My Mind'. Also produced successful music for several Australian artists, shaping the local music landscape. Continued to influence music through songwriting and production endeavors.

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Klaus Dinger

Guitarist and songwriter for Neu!
Born
March 24th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 62 years old

Born in Germany in 1946, contributed significantly to the krautrock genre as a guitarist and songwriter. Co-founded the influential band Neu! in the early 1970s, which became a cornerstone of the genre. Neu! was characterized by its innovative sound and use of rhythm, leaving a lasting influence on many music styles that followed. Additionally worked with other bands, including La Dusseldorf, expanding the fusion of rock and electronic sounds. Contributions shaped the landscape of modern music well beyond his time.

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Kitty O'Neil

Stuntwoman and speed record holder
Born
March 24th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 72 years old

A skilled stuntwoman, contributed to the film industry with remarkable stunts in films like 'The Bionic Woman' and 'Airport 1975'. Set a world record for the fastest woman in the world in 1976, achieving a speed of 512.71 miles per hour in a rocket vehicle. Participated in numerous television series and films throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Overcame significant challenges related to hearing impairment, becoming a prominent figure in stunt work.

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Daniel Bensaïd

French philosopher and author of major works
Born
March 25th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2010 15 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent philosopher and Marxist theorist, contributions included analyses of politics, philosophy, and social movements. Authored significant texts such as 'For a Left Upon the Horizon' and 'The Dispossessed'. Engaged in activism and theoretical work throughout the late 20th century. Bensaïd's writings explored themes of history, revolution, and the critique of capitalism.

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