What Happened This Year 1946

People Who Died in 1946

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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Ananda Mahidol

King Rama VIII of Thailand
Born
September 20th, 1925 99 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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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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Werner Kolhörster

Physicist specializing in cosmic rays
Born
December 28th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1946 79 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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Arthur James Arnot

Engineer, designed Spencer Street Power Station
Born
August 26th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
1946 79 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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Fritz Sauckel

German sailor and politician
Born
October 27th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1946 79 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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Wilhelm Keitel

German field marshal during WWII
Born
September 22nd, 1882 142 years ago
Died
1946 79 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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Harley Granville-Barker

British actor, director and playwright
Born
November 25th, 1877 147 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 69 years old

Significant contributions made to the theatre as a playwright, director, and actor. Authored influential plays, including 'The Madras House' and 'The Voysey Inheritance'. Served as a director at the Lyric Hammersmith, helping to shape modern theatre. Also recognized for advocating for the importance of theatrical art and education. Worked in the early 20th century, influencing both contemporaries and future generations of playwrights and directors.

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