What Happened This Year 1946

Born in 1946

Lyudmila Pakhomova

Russian ice dancer and Olympian
Born
December 31st, 1946 78 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 40 years old

An accomplished ice dancer, this athlete excelled in competitive figure skating in the 1970s and 1980s. Pakhomova partnered with Alexander Gorshkov to achieve significant success in the sport, capturing several titles. The duo secured gold at the 1970 World Championships, earned Olympic gold in 1976, and won multiple European Championships. The innovative style and technical precision displayed in performances set a standard in ice dance. This dancer's contribution to the sport remains influential, as the techniques and artistry developed are still referenced in ice dance today.

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Nigel Rudd

Businessman, founder of Williams Holdings
Born
December 31st, 1946 78 years ago

Founded Williams Holdings, a major company in the UK, which was involved in various sectors including construction and real estate. Oversaw significant growth of the business and expanded its operations through strategic investments. Played a crucial role in the acquisition of several businesses to enhance the company’s portfolio. After successful years in business, transitioned into private equity investment.

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Tim Stevens

Bishop with notable church leadership
Born
December 31st, 1946 78 years ago

Ordained as a bishop in the Church of England, influential in church governance and community engagement. Served as the Bishop of Leicester from 2009 to 2018. Focused on interfaith dialogue and social justice issues throughout the tenure. Contributed to various church initiatives aimed at revitalizing congregational life.

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Raphael Kaplinsky

International development academic
Born
December 31st, 1946 78 years ago

An academic specializing in international development, focusing on the role of global value chains in economic development. Conducted extensive research in the area of technology transfer and industrial policy. Contributed significantly to understanding the link between globalization and poverty alleviation. Engaged with various international organizations and advised policy formulation in developing countries. Authored numerous publications that explored the dynamics of development economics.

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Mervyn Davies

Welsh rugby player and captain
Born
November 21st, 1952 72 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2012 13 years ago — 59 years old

Played as a lock for the Welsh national rugby team and the British Lions. Captained Wales to a Grand Slam victory in the 1971 Five Nations Championship. Played club rugby for Swansea RFC and won multiple domestic titles. Retired from international rugby in 1976. Later pursued a career in business and served as a director in various companies.

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Alaina Reed Hall

American actress known for Sesame Street
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2009 15 years ago — 63 years old

An actress gained recognition for roles in television and theater. Notable for portraying Olivia Robinson on the children's program 'Sesame Street,' which she joined in 1976. Also appeared in the sitcom '227' as Marla, contributing to the show's success during its run. Hall's earlier career included performances on Broadway, showcasing her range as a performer and gaining acclaim for her work in the arts.

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Brenda Howard

American activist for LGBTQ rights
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2005 19 years ago — 59 years old

An activist played a significant role in advancing LGBTQ rights and awareness. Often referred to as the 'Mother of Pride,' organized the first LGBTQ Pride marches in New York City following the Stonewall riots in 1969. Advocated for the decriminalization of homosexuality and worked on issues related to transgender rights. Contributed to various LGBTQ organizations and was involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the 1980s and 1990s.

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Oba Chandler

American murderer involved in a notorious case
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2011 13 years ago — 65 years old

Involved in a high-profile criminal case, a man committed multiple murders in Florida during the 1990s. Arrested in connection with the deaths of three women whose bodies were found in the waters of Tampa Bay. Convicted of the murders in 1994, receiving a death sentence. Following years of legal appeals, executed in 2011 by lethal injection.

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Ken Wadsworth

New Zealand cricketer and Test player
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1976 48 years ago — 30 years old

Wadsworth was a cricketer who represented New Zealand at the international level. He played as a right-handed batsman and a wicket-keeper. His career spanned from 1955 to 1969. He made significant contributions to the New Zealand national team, particularly during the early years of Test cricket for the nation. Wadsworth was also involved in domestic cricket, playing for teams such as Wellington. His expertise in wicket-keeping was regarded as an essential asset for the team during his tenure.

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