What Happened This Year 1946

People Who Died in 1946

Alfred Jodl

German General in World War II
Born
May 10th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 56 years old

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.

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Dion Fortune

Occultist and author of 'The Mystical Qabalah'
Born
December 6th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 56 years old

A Welsh occultist and psychologist, contributed significantly to the field of Western esotericism. Founded the Society of the Inner Light, which promoted spiritual teaching and practices based on mystical traditions. Authored several works on occultism and psychology, with 'The Mystical Qabalah' being one of the most recognized. Explored themes of psychology and spirituality in her writings, blending them with her occult practices.

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William S. Hart

Silent film actor and director, The Outlaws
Born
December 6th, 1864 160 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 82 years old

An influential figure in silent film, played a pivotal role in shaping the Western genre. Started career in theater before transitioning to films, gaining prominence in the early 20th century. Directed and starred in numerous films, becoming one of the most recognized actors of his time. Created a distinct persona as a rugged cowboy character, resonating with audiences. The film 'The Outlaws' is one of the hallmark contributions to the genre and helped solidify the portrayal of the outlaw figure in cinema.

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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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Carl Gustav Witt

German astronomer, discovered asteroids
Born
October 29th, 1866 158 years ago
Died
1946 79 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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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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Charles F. Hurley

54th Governor of Massachusetts
Born
November 24th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 53 years old

Served as an American soldier before entering politics. Held the position of the 54th Governor of Massachusetts from 1935 to 1937. Played a significant role in various state initiatives and programs aimed at addressing the economic challenges of the Great Depression. Prior to his governorship, served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives and the Massachusetts Senate. Advocated for public works projects and improvements in infrastructure during his tenure as governor, contributing to the development of the state.

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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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