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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David Currie

Economist and academic leader
Born
December 9th, 1946 78 years ago

Baron Currie of Marylebone contributed significantly to the field of economics and higher education. Served as a professor of economics and held various academic leadership positions. Played a pivotal role in the development of economic policy and education reform in the United Kingdom. Also served as the chairman of the Office of Communications (Ofcom) from 2003 to 2009, overseeing the telecommunications industry during crucial changes.

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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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Patty Duke

American actress and Academy Award winner
Born
December 14th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2016 8 years ago — 69 years old

Achieved prominence in acting with a career that began in childhood. Starred in the film 'The Miracle Worker' as Helen Keller, earning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Portrayed characters in multiple television series, notably in 'The Patty Duke Show' and 'Judith Merril.' Received recognition for work in both film and television across several decades. Authored an autobiography that detailed personal struggles and industry experiences.

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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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Antony Beevor

Historian and author of war narratives
Born
December 14th, 1946 78 years ago

A prominent historian and author focused on World War II and modern military history. Works include acclaimed titles such as 'Stalingrad' and 'Berlin: The Downfall 1945', both significant studies on pivotal battles of the Second World War. Academic involvement includes positions at various universities, contributing to military history discourse. Beevor's writings are characterized by extensive research and engaging narratives, making complex historical events accessible to a wider audience.

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