What Happened This Year 1966

People Who Died in 1966

Lao She

Chinese novelist and dramatist, Tea House
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1966 58 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent Chinese novelist and dramatist, created works that portray life in 20th century Beijing. Wrote notable novels such as 'Rickshaw Boy' and 'Four Generations under One Roof', reflecting social issues and cultural changes. Additionally, penned the play 'Tea House', which has become a classic in Chinese literature. His writing is characterized by its rich language and deep understanding of the Chinese society of the time. In later years, faced challenges during political upheaval, which influenced his later works and life.

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Sayyid Qutb

Egyptian author and Islamic theorist
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1966 58 years ago — 60 years old

An Egyptian author, thinker, and poet, contributed significantly to Islamic thought in the 20th century. His work focused on the relationship between faith and society, particularly through the lens of modernity and Western influence. A key figure in the Muslim Brotherhood, articulated views on social justice and Islamic governance. Writings included notable works such as 'Milestones', which outlined his vision for a return to fundamental Islamic principles. His perspectives often critiqued Western culture and promoted a comprehensive Islamic societal framework based on his interpretations of the Quran.

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Dezső Lauber

Hungarian golfer and architect
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1966 58 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent golfer, tennis player, and architect from Hungary. Contributed to the architecture field while also being active in sports. Played at a high level in both golf and tennis. Participated in various competitions throughout the career, showcasing athletic prowess along with a commitment to design and architecture.

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Margaret Sanger

Nurse and Birth Control Activist
Born
September 14th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1966 58 years ago — 86 years old

A nurse and activist contributed significantly to the birth control movement in the United States. Founded the American Birth Control League in 1921, which later became Planned Parenthood. Advocated for women's reproductive rights and education about contraception. Published works and provided information to women regarding family planning. Arrested multiple times for distributing contraceptive information. Played a crucial role in changing societal attitudes towards birth control and women's health.

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Hendrik Verwoerd

Politician and Prime Minister of South Africa
Born
September 8th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1966 58 years ago — 64 years old

Served as South Africa's 7th Prime Minister from 1958 until 1966. Before becoming Prime Minister, held the position of Minister of Native Affairs. Played a significant role in the establishment and implementation of apartheid policies in South Africa. Initiated various reforms that focused on segregation and racial classification, which contributed to systemic discrimination.

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Emil Julius Gumbel

Mathematician and statistician
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1966 58 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of statistics with a focus on robust statistics and the application of statistical methods in various disciplines. Authored several influential works, including the book 'Statistical Theory and Methodology in Science and Engineering'. Gumbel faced political challenges due to his Jewish heritage during the rise of the Nazi regime and left Germany for the United States, where he continued his work in statistics. His research laid foundations that were utilized in various scientific inquiries and methodologies. Gumbel's work on extremal value theory has applications in fields such as meteorology, hydrology, and engineering.

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Collett E. Woolman

Businessman, co-founder of Delta Air Lines
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1966 58 years ago — 77 years old

An American businessman co-founded Delta Air Lines in 1925. Played a significant role in the expansion and modernization of the airline industry. Served as the President of Delta Air Lines and was instrumental in introducing innovations in air travel and customer service. Led Delta through challenging economic periods and transformed it into a major national airline.

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Cemal Gürsel

Turkish general and 4th President
Born
1895 130 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1966 58 years ago — 71 years old

Cemal Gürsel served as a military officer and politician in Turkey. Rising to prominence within the military, Gürsel became a key figure during the 1960 coup d'état, which led to significant political changes in the country. Following the coup, he assumed the presidency of Turkey, holding the office until 1966. His presidency marked a period of political transition and reform, addressing various social and economic challenges faced by the nation. The end of his term was characterized by ongoing political instability.

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Gertrude Berg

American actress and screenwriter
Born
October 3rd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1966 58 years ago — 66 years old

An influential figure in American television, an actress, screenwriter, and producer contributed significantly to the industry through the creation of a successful series. The series, which depicted a Jewish family and their daily lives, showcased her writing and performance talents. The show became a mainstay on the air and received critical acclaim for its portrayal of family dynamics and cultural themes. Recognized for pioneering the television sitcom format, the contributions shaped future programming styles and represented minority voices on screen.

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