What Happened This Year 1946

Born in 1946

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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Cliff Richey

American tennis player
Born
December 31st, 1946 78 years ago

Achieved notable success as a professional tennis player during the 1960s and 1970s. Won the 1960 United States National Championships, the precursor to the US Open, which marked a significant milestone in the career. Excelled in singles competition, earning a reputation for strong performances in major tournaments. Played a pivotal role in the US Davis Cup team, contributing to victories in several competitions. With consistent appearances in Grand Slam events, reached the quarterfinals and semifinals multiple times.

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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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Pius Ncube

Zimbabwean archbishop and activist
Born
December 31st, 1946 78 years ago

Ordained as a Roman Catholic priest, served as the Archbishop of Bulawayo from 1998 to 2009. Focused on issues of social justice, democracy, and human rights in Zimbabwe. Criticized the government of Robert Mugabe for its abuses and corruption, which led to international recognition. Played a significant role in peace initiatives and promoted nonviolent resistance.

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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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Drafi Deutscher

German singer-songwriter and musician
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2006 18 years ago — 60 years old

Drafi Deutscher was a German singer-songwriter and musician active primarily in the 1960s and 1970s. His career began in the early 1960s when he formed the band The Rattles, contributing to the German beat and rock scene. In 1965, he gained significant recognition with the hit single 'Marmor, Stein und Eisen bricht,' which topped the German charts and became a classic in German pop music. Deutscher's style blended pop, rock, and Schlager, appealing to a wide audience. Throughout his career, he produced numerous successful songs and albums, with his work greatly influencing the German music landscape. He continued to perform and write music until his later years, remaining a notable figure in the entertainment industry.

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William Thurston

Mathematician, awarded Fields Medal
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2012 12 years ago — 66 years old

Contributions focused on topology, geometry, and the study of three-dimensional manifolds. Developed the theory of hyperbolic geometry and its applications in topology. Served as a professor at Princeton University and was instrumental in education, mentoring numerous students and researchers. Received the prestigious Fields Medal in 1982 for significant advancements in cryptography. Authored several influential papers and texts, shaping modern understanding in these mathematical fields.

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Aliu Mahama

Ghanaian politician and engineer
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2012 12 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 3rd Vice President of Ghana from 2001 to 2009. During this tenure, played a significant role in various government policies and initiatives aimed at promoting national development and economic growth. Worked as an engineer prior to entering politics, contributing to infrastructure projects in the country. Advocated for youth empowerment and education reform throughout his political career.

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Christopher Keene

Conductor and educator of opera
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1995 29 years ago — 49 years old

An influential conductor and educator in the realm of opera. Trained at the University of Southern California, worked as the music director for several notable companies. Conducted productions for the New York City Opera and the San Francisco Opera. Renowned for taking on the challenging role of leading the Pittsburgh Opera and developing various educational programs.

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