What Happened This Year 1946

Born in 1946

Sonia Gandhi

Italian-Indian politician and leader
Born
December 9th, 1946 78 years ago

An Italian-born Indian politician, significant influence in the Indian National Congress. Served as the President of the Indian National Congress from 2000 to 2017 and led the party to victory in the 2004 general elections. Played a crucial role in the formation of the United Progressive Alliance, which governed India from 2004 to 2014. She was a Member of Parliament for Raebareli, advocating for various social and economic issues. Pivotal in Indian politics and known for her leadership during the coalition government era.

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Nicholas Reade

Bishop and religious leader
Born
December 9th, 1946 78 years ago

Ordained as a bishop in the Church of England, served as the Bishop of Blackburn from 2001 to 2011. Contributed to the development of church policies and engaged in various community outreach programs. Prior to his role in Blackburn, held positions in other dioceses, including London and East Anglia. Focused on strengthening relationships within the local community and emphasized the importance of social justice and inclusivity within religious practices.

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Dennis Dunaway

Bass player for the band Alice Cooper
Born
December 9th, 1946 78 years ago

Original bass player and songwriter for the rock band Alice Cooper. Contributed to the band's success during the early 1970s. Participated in albums such as 'Love It to Death,' 'School's Out,' and 'Billion Dollar Babies.' His work with Alice Cooper led to the band achieving widespread popularity and critical acclaim in the glam rock genre.

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Douglas Kenney

American satirist and co-founder of National Lampoon
Born
December 10th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1980 44 years ago — 33 years old

A satirist and writer, contributed significantly to humor through various mediums. Co-founded National Lampoon magazine, transforming it into a cultural phenomenon. Authored influential works that included 'National Lampoon's Animal House', which became a milestone in comedy films. Engaged in writing and producing for different projects that shaped comedic satire in American media.

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Rhoma Irama

Indonesian singer-songwriter and actor
Born
December 11th, 1946 78 years ago

A significant figure in Indonesian music, produced a unique blend of traditional dangdut music and rock. Gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, establishing a loyal fanbase. Also ventured into acting, appearing in films that contributed to the dangdut genre's popularity. Throughout a lengthy career, wrote numerous hit songs and became a cultural icon in Indonesia, influencing many artists in the genre.

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Emerson Fittipaldi

Formula One World Champion driver
Born
December 12th, 1946 78 years ago

Racing driver secured the Formula One World Championship in 1972 and 1974. Transitioned to IndyCar racing, winning the Indianapolis 500 twice, in 1989 and 1993. Fittipaldi was the first Brazilian driver to achieve significant success in both Formula One and IndyCar. His career spanned over three decades, during which he competed for teams such as Team Lotus and McLaren in Formula One, and founded his own racing team in IndyCar. Fittipaldi's contributions to motorsport are noteworthy, as he paved the way for future Brazilian drivers.

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Joyce Vincent Wilson

American singer with Tony Victory
Born
December 14th, 1946 78 years ago

A singer and songwriter, contributed to the popular music scene in the 1980s as a member of the renowned group Tony Orlando and Dawn. The group achieved significant success with hit songs such as "Knock Three Times" and "Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree." Later, transitioned to a solo career while performing in various venues across the United States.

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Stan Smith

American tennis player and coach
Born
December 14th, 1946 78 years ago

Played professionally in the 1960s and 1970s. Achieved a world No. 1 ranking in singles and won two Grand Slam titles, including the 1971 US Open and the 1972 Wimbledon Championship. Transitioned into coaching and has contributed to the development of tennis players at various levels. Known for promoting the sport through various commitments and appearances.

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Ruth Fuchs

Javelin thrower and politician
Born
December 14th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent javelin thrower who competed for East Germany, made significant achievements in international athletics. Won a gold medal at the 1980 Moscow Olympics and set multiple world records during the 1970s. Transitioned into a political career after retiring from sports, holding a seat in the Bundestag and advocating for athletes' rights.

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