What Happened This Year 1946

People Who Died in 1946

James Hopwood Jeans

Physicist and astronomer specializing in cosmology
Born
September 11th, 1877 147 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1946 78 years ago — 69 years old

Contributions included work in statistical mechanics and the theory of radiation. Developed ideas on the formation of the solar system and proposed theories regarding the stability of the universe. Authored several influential books, including 'The Mysterious Universe' and 'Physics and Philosophy'. Played a pivotal role in advancing early 20th-century astrophysics and cosmology.

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Hans Eppinger

Austrian physician and academic leader
Born
January 5th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1946 78 years ago — 67 years old

Contributions to medical education and practice included serving as a professor of internal medicine at the University of Vienna. Eppinger specialized in tuberculosis research and developed significant techniques for the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Authored several important papers in the field of medicine, influencing German-speaking medical communities. Held various administrative roles, promoting advancements in medical practices during early 20th century Europe.

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Takashi Sakai

Japanese general and Governor of Hong Kong
Born
October 18th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1946 78 years ago — 58 years old

A general in the Japanese Imperial Army and a politician, this individual served as the Governor of Hong Kong during its occupation in World War II. The tenure involved significant military governance amid the war's challenges. Leadership included addressing wartime administration and socio-economic issues in the region. Following the war, the individual faced repercussions for actions taken during the occupation period. Post-war political developments influenced the individual's legacy.

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Barney Oldfield

Race car driver, first American speed champion
Born
1878 147 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1946 78 years ago — 68 years old

Pioneered auto racing in the early 20th century. Achieved fame as the first driver to break the 60 mph world speed record. Competed in various racing formats, including dirt tracks and board tracks. Participated in the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911. Transitioned to acting with a notable role in the silent film 'The Great Race'. His contributions significantly shaped the sport of auto racing in America.

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Frank Castleman

American football and baseball coach
Born
1877 148 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1946 78 years ago — 69 years old

Played professional American football and baseball. Served as a coach in both sports after his playing career. Contributed to the development of players and teams at various levels. Helped improve athletic programs in educational institutions during coaching tenure.

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Joseph Stilwell

American general during World War II
Born
March 19th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1946 78 years ago — 63 years old

Served as a general in the United States Army during World War II, primarily in the China-Burma-India Theater. Commanded the Allied forces in the region and advocated for a unified command approach in the area, leading to significant strategic decisions. Played a crucial role in the logistics and supply challenges faced during the campaign against Japanese forces. Emphasized cooperation with local Chinese forces and worked to strengthen their capabilities against Japan.

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Hermann Göring

German politician and military leader
Born
January 12th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1946 78 years ago — 53 years old

Served as a prominent figure in Nazi Germany, becoming the second-in-command to Adolf Hitler. Held the position of Minister President of Prussia and was a leading member of the National Socialist German Workers' Party. In addition to political duties, played a significant role in the development of the Luftwaffe, the German air force, and was instrumental in various military strategies during World War II. After the war, faced trial at Nuremberg for war crimes.

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Ioannis Rallis

Greek politician, Prime Minister of Greece
Born
1878 147 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1946 78 years ago — 68 years old

Served as Prime Minister of Greece during a critical period surrounding World War II. Held office in a government that was recognized by Germany after the occupation of Greece. Participated in negotiations and served within the political landscape that shaped Greece's response during the wartime crisis. His career included involvement in various legislative actions aimed at addressing the needs of the Greek populace during and after the conflict.

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Rüdiger von der Goltz

German general and military leader
Born
December 8th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1946 78 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1865, served as a general in the Imperial German Army. Played a significant role during World War I, particularly on the Eastern Front. Initially commanded the German forces in the Baltic region and later became the military governor of Latvia. Advocated for the German national interests in the region and attempted to establish a puppet state. After the war, involved in various nationalist movements and sought to influence the political landscape in post-war Germany.

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