What Happened This Year 1946

Born in 1946

Aliu Mahama

Ghanaian politician and engineer
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2012 13 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.

Continue Reading

William Thurston

Mathematician, awarded Fields Medal
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2012 13 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.

Continue Reading

Drafi Deutscher

German singer-songwriter and musician
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2006 19 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.

Continue Reading

Abdelwahab Meddeb

Tunisian-French author and poet
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 68 years old

An author, poet, and scholar engaged with themes of identity, culture, and the modern Arab world. Received education in Tunisia and France, enriching the literary landscape with a distinctive voice. Contributed significantly to literature with a rich blend of prose and poetry, exploring the complexities of the Mediterranean socio-political climate. Authored works in both French and Arabic, highlighting the nuances of intercultural dialogue. Selected works include the novel 'Talismano' and contributions to various literary journals and anthologies.

Continue Reading

Boris Dubin

Sociologist and academic in Russia
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent sociologist and academic, contributions focused on post-Soviet society, political culture, and social transformation in Russia. Authored several influential works that examined public opinion, social values, and political attitudes in contemporary Russia. Served as a senior researcher at the Levada Center, a leading independent polling organization in Russia. Engaged in sociological research that provided insights into the public's response to governmental policy and social changes. Provided analysis during times of significant political change, contributing to understanding the social dynamics at play in the region.

Continue Reading

Ted Greene

American guitarist and music journalist
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2005 20 years ago — 59 years old

An influential figure in American guitar music, contributed significantly to guitar instruction through the publication of instructional materials. Authored 'Chord Chemistry', a book that explored chord theory and fingerboard navigation for guitarists. Worked as a session musician and performed with various artists while also being a sought-after teacher in the Los Angeles area. His guitar style blended elements from jazz and classical music, influencing both students and fellow musicians. Recognized for his unique approach to harmony and improvisation, left a lasting legacy on guitar education.

Continue Reading

Leandro Mendoza

Filipino police officer and politician
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
October 7th, 2013 12 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the 36th Executive Secretary of the Philippines. Held various positions in the Philippine National Police, rising through the ranks to become Chief of the Philippine National Police. Contributed to public safety and law enforcement efforts during tenures in both law enforcement and government roles.

Continue Reading

Ken Wadsworth

New Zealand cricketer and Test player
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1976 49 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.

Continue Reading

Oba Chandler

American murderer involved in a notorious case
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2011 14 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.

Continue Reading