What Happened This Year 1946
People Who Died in 1946
Leon Marchlewski
Served as a professor of chemistry at the University of Lviv, specializing in organic chemistry. Contributed to the development of analytical techniques and wrote extensively on chemical education. Participated in scientific research and published various works that advanced understanding in his field during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingAlfred Jodl
A senior military officer in the German Army during World War II. Played a key role in planning and executing operations on the Western Front. Served as the Chief of the Operations Staff at the Oberkommando der Wehrmacht, overseeing strategic military decisions. Captured by Allied forces in 1945, faced trial at the Nuremberg Trials for war crimes.
Continue ReadingHendrik Adamson
Born in 1891, this poet contributed significantly to Estonian literature through both poetry and educational efforts. He worked as a teacher, intertwining literary studies with language instruction. His poetry often reflected the cultural and emotional landscape of Estonia during challenging times. Engaged in the literary community, he played a crucial role in nurturing Estonian poetry in the early 20th century and worked towards promoting the national language and culture.
Continue ReadingJoachim von Ribbentrop
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.
Continue ReadingSada Yacco
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.
Continue ReadingHans Frank
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.
Continue ReadingMamie Smith
Born in 1883, this artist gained fame as a singer, actress, dancer, and pianist. Smith's recording of 'Crazy Blues' in 1920 marked a pivotal moment in music history, being one of the first records to feature a Black woman as a lead artist. This work helped to popularize the blues genre and opened doors for African American artists in the music industry. In addition to her music career, Smith performed in vaudeville and appeared in several films throughout the 1920s and 1930s, showcasing her talents as an entertainer. Smith's influence extended beyond her era, laying the groundwork for future generations of musicians and performers.
Continue ReadingLogan Pearsall Smith
Born in 1865, an American-English author and critic, contributed to literary culture through essays and critiques. Focused on themes of reading, literature, and the nuances of language. Engaged with the Bloomsbury Group and influenced contemporary thought through detailed analysis and commentary. Demonstrated a particular affinity for essays that explored the art of reading and the importance of literature in society. Left a legacy as a literary critic with a profound understanding of the written word and its impact on life.
Continue ReadingJulius Streicher
A prominent German publisher, founded and edited the anti-Semitic newspaper Der Stürmer. Actively participated in the Nazi Party, promoting its ideology through print media. Streicher was a key figure in disseminating propaganda that fostered anti-Semitic sentiments in Germany during the 1930s and 1940s. The newspaper played a significant role in shaping public perception and attitudes towards Jews leading up to and during World War II.
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