What Happened This Year 1946

Born in 1946

William Thurston

Mathematician, awarded Fields Medal
Born
1946 79 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

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.

Continue Reading

Christopher Keene

Conductor and educator of opera
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1995 30 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.

Continue Reading

Christopher Malcolm

Scottish-Canadian actor and director
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
February 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 68 years old

Chose a career in acting, directing, and producing. Gained recognition for performances in stage productions and television series. Featured in the original cast of the musical 'The Rocky Horror Show' in 1973. Appeared in the series 'Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back' as Dack Ralter. Worked on various projects across media, contributing significantly to the arts in both Canada and Scotland.

Continue Reading

Johnny Oates

Baseball manager and player
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2004 20 years ago — 58 years old

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball, featuring for teams such as the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs, and San Diego Padres. Transitioned into coaching and managing, leading the Texas Rangers as a manager. Guided the team to several successful seasons and playoff appearances during the 1990s. Oates also served as a batting coach for the Baltimore Orioles before taking on managerial roles.

Continue Reading

Colin Petersen

Australian drummer and record producer
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2024 0 years ago — 78 years old

Petersen contributed significantly to the music industry as a drummer, record producer, and actor. He gained recognition for playing drums on several projects, including work with popular artists. His role in the band The Bee Gees during their early years in Australia marked a pivotal point in his career. Apart from his musical contributions, he also ventured into acting, appearing in various television shows and films throughout the years. Petersen's work in the entertainment industry spanned several decades, showcasing his versatility across different mediums.

Continue Reading

Georges J. F. Köhler

Biologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1995 30 years ago — 49 years old

A significant figure in the field of immunology, contributions included the development of monoclonal antibodies. Collaborated with César Milstein and Niels K. Jerne, leading to groundbreaking discoveries in antibody production. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1984 for this work. Served as a professor and researcher at the University of Freiburg.

Continue Reading

Armand

Dutch singer-songwriter, 'Ben ik te min?'
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2015 9 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent figure in the Dutch music scene, this singer-songwriter gained popularity in the 1970s. Famed for the song 'Ben ik te min?', he explored themes of love and social issues through his music. Throughout the career, multiple albums were released, showcasing a blend of pop and folk influences. The artist also engaged in activism, using music as a platform to address societal challenges, contributing to cultural conversations within the Netherlands. The work resonated with a wide audience, leading to enduring recognition within the Dutch music landscape.

Continue Reading

Champ Summers

Baseball player and coach
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
October 11th, 2012 13 years ago — 66 years old

Summers played professional baseball primarily as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1969 to 1979. He appeared in 227 games for teams including the Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers, and San Diego Padres. After his playing career, he transitioned to coaching and continued to share his knowledge of the game. Summers contributed to various minor league teams and served as a hitting instructor, influencing younger players.

Continue Reading