What Happened This Year 1966
People Who Died in 1966
Lao She
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.
Continue ReadingSayyid Qutb
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.
Continue ReadingDezső Lauber
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.
Continue ReadingMargaret Sanger
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.
Continue ReadingHendrik Verwoerd
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.
Continue ReadingEmil Julius Gumbel
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.
Continue ReadingCollett E. Woolman
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.
Continue ReadingHiram Wesley Evans
A prominent leader in the Ku Klux Klan during the early to mid-20th century, played a significant role in shaping the organization's policies and outreach. Evans served as the Imperial Wizard from 1922 until 1939, notably increasing membership and visibility of the Klan during this period. Under Evans' leadership, the Klan adopted a more structured hierarchy and engaged in various civic activities aimed at attracting a broader audience. The promotion of white Protestant supremacy marked a pivotal aspect of the organization's agenda during his tenure. In the political landscape, Evans endorsed candidates and sought to influence local and national elections, aligning the Klan with various political movements of the time. His leadership coincided with the increased public presence of the Klan during the 1920s, which saw a revival of the organization following its original formation.
Continue ReadingCemal Gürsel
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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