What Happened This Year 1946

Born in 1946

Cliff Richey

American tennis player
Born
December 31st, 1946 79 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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Nigel Rudd

Businessman, founder of Williams Holdings
Born
December 31st, 1946 79 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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Raphael Kaplinsky

International development academic
Born
December 31st, 1946 79 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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Lyudmila Pakhomova

Russian ice dancer and Olympian
Born
December 31st, 1946 79 years ago
Died
1986 40 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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Mervyn Davies

Welsh rugby player and captain
Born
November 21st, 1952 73 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2012 14 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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Sonny Ruberto

Baseball player, coach, and manager
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
March 25th, 2014 12 years ago — 68 years old

Played professional baseball primarily as an infielder. Coached at the collegiate level and managed various minor league teams, including the New York Mets' Triple-A affiliate, the Tidewater Tides. Concluded a lengthy career in baseball that spanned several decades, contributing to the sport through both playing and coaching positions. Transitioned to coaching at various educational institutions after completing playing career.

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Ottmar Schreiner

German lawyer and politician
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2013 12 years ago — 67 years old

A politician and lawyer, contributed significantly to German politics through various roles. Served as a member of the German Bundestag representing the Social Democratic Party (SPD). Advocated for social justice, education reform, and healthcare policy. Held positions in committees focusing on legal and human rights issues. Engaged in political debates and legislative processes that shaped numerous laws in the country.

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Bigas Luna

Spanish film director and screenwriter
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2013 12 years ago — 67 years old

Key figure in Spanish cinema, focused on themes of sexuality and identity. Gained recognition in the 1990s for distinct visual style and narrative techniques. Directed films such as 'Jamón Jamón', which highlighted the cultural dynamics of Spain and showcased the talents of actors like Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem. Also directed 'The Age of Beauty' and 'The Last Supper', both of which explored societal issues through a unique artistic lens. His work contributed to the rise of a new wave of Spanish filmmakers during this era.

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Richard LeParmentier

Actor in Star Wars and screenwriter
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 67 years old

American-English actor and screenwriter had a career spanning several decades. Appeared in the original 'Star Wars' as Admiral Motti. Also featured in films such as 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold' and 'Octopussy'. Worked in television, guest-starring in series including 'The New Avengers' and 'The Professionals'. Contributed to several stage productions and screenplays, showcasing a range of talents in acting and writing.

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