What Happened This Year 1946
Born in 1946
Józef Oleksy
An economist and politician served as the 7th Prime Minister of Poland from 1995 to 1996. Played a significant role in the political landscape of the country during the post-communist transition. Associated with the Polish Social Democratic Party and actively participated in various reform initiatives throughout the 1990s. Also held the position of Speaker of the Sejm, contributing to legislative processes and government policies.
Continue ReadingEliades Ochoa
A prominent figure in Cuban music, this artist gained recognition for contributions to the genre of son cubano. Initially part of the group Cuarteto Patria, later joined Buena Vista Social Club, which introduced traditional Cuban music to a global audience. The artist's distinctive guitar playing and vocals feature in the 1997 album 'Buena Vista Social Club.' This work received critical acclaim and won a Grammy Award, helping to revive interest in Caribbean music. The music reflects the rich cultural heritage of Cuba, blending various influences to create a unique sound.
Continue ReadingTed Shackelford
An American actor born in 1946, became prominent for roles in soap operas and television dramas. Gained recognition for playing the character Gary Ewing in 'Knots Landing', a role that solidified his career in television. Contributed to various television projects, showcasing a range of characters. In addition to acting, appearances in stage productions highlighted versatility.
Continue ReadingRobert Reich
An economist and politician, served as the 22nd Secretary of Labor from 1993 to 1997 under President Bill Clinton. Focused on labor policies and economic issues, promoting middle-class interests and fair wages. Worked as a professor at the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley. Contributed to various publications and served on several boards and committees related to economic policy.
Continue ReadingEllison Onizuka
An engineer and astronaut, contributed to space exploration as a NASA astronaut. Selected as one of the first members of the group of astronauts formed after the Apollo program. Flew on the Space Shuttle Discovery as a mission specialist for STS-51-L in 1986. Part of the crew that tragically lost their lives in the Challenger disaster. Worked on various missions that included research in microgravity and telecommunications. Notably the first Asian American astronaut in space.
Continue ReadingIan McDonald
A multi-instrumentalist contributed significantly to the progressive rock band King Crimson. Instrumental in shaping the band's early sound, played guitar and saxophone on their iconic debut album, 'In the Court of the Crimson King', released in 1969. Later participated in various musical projects and collaborations across genres, showcasing versatility and continuing to perform live and in the studio long after the band's initial success. Co-founded the band Foreigner, achieving chart-topping hits in the late 1970s and 1980s.
Continue ReadingRoméo Dallaire
A retired Canadian general, a politician, and a humanitarian, played a significant role during the Rwandan genocide while serving as the commander of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda. After retirement, engaged in efforts to raise awareness about military intervention and human rights issues. Became a senator and continued to advocate for vulnerable populations, especially children affected by war. Authored several books, including a memoir detailing experiences in Rwanda, which contributed to discussions about international relations and military ethics.
Continue ReadingAllen Lanier
Contributed as a guitarist and keyboardist for the rock band Blue Öyster Cult, which achieved significant success in the 1970s and 1980s. Participated in the writing of several songs for the band, helping to shape their sound. Also worked on solo music projects and collaborated with various artists throughout a career that spanned decades. Valued for contributions to the rock music scene.
Continue ReadingCandace Pert
A significant figure in neuroscience and pharmacology, contributed to the discovery of opiate receptors, which revolutionized the understanding of pain management and addiction. Developed the concept of neuropeptides as signaling molecules in the brain, exploring their roles in emotions and behavior. Conducted pivotal research on the interactions between the immune system and the brain, establishing links crucial for understanding health and disease.
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