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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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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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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Ravi Chopra

Indian director and producer of films
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
November 12th, 2014 10 years ago — 68 years old

Director and producer contributed significantly to Indian cinema. Directed various acclaimed films and television shows, with a focus on themes of social justice and family values. Established a successful production company and worked on memorable projects that highlighted cultural narratives. Engaged with storytelling that resonated with diverse audiences across India.

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Ottmar Schreiner

German lawyer and politician
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2013 11 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 79 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2013 11 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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Loleatta Holloway

American singer-songwriter, 'Love Sensation'
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2011 13 years ago — 65 years old

Loleatta Holloway was an American singer-songwriter prominent in the disco and soul genres. She gained recognition for her powerful voice and dynamic performances. Her most successful single, 'Love Sensation,' was released in 1980 and became a major hit, later sampled in several tracks by notable artists. Throughout her career, she also released several albums and collaborated with various musicians, contributing to the dance and R&B scenes.

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