What Happened This Year 1966

People Who Died in 1966

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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Fritz Wunderlich

German tenor celebrated for operatic roles
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1966 58 years ago — 36 years old

An acclaimed German tenor gained recognition for outstanding performances in the operatic world during the mid-20th century. Primarily associated with the operas of Mozart and German lieder, he showcased a remarkable vocal talent and emotional delivery. His career flourished in prestigious venues across Europe, particularly at the Stuttgart State Opera and the Salzburg Festival. Despite a career cut short by an untimely death, his recordings remain influential in classical music.

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Paul Reynaud

French politician, Prime Minister of France
Born
October 15th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1966 58 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 118th Prime Minister of France during World War II. Took office shortly before the German invasion in 1940 and faced significant challenges in response to the crisis. Advocated for strong military resistance against Nazi forces. Resigned following the fall of France and fled to London, where he continued to support the Free French efforts.

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André Breton

French poet and founder of Surrealism
Born
February 19th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1966 58 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1896, this figure emerged as a leading voice in the Surrealist movement. In 1924, published the 'Surrealist Manifesto', articulating principles of Surrealism and its rejection of reality. Contributed significantly to literature, art, and criticism, advocating for the exploration of the unconscious mind. Wrote several influential works including 'Nadja' and 'L'Amour fou'. Engaged with other prominent artists and intellectuals of the time, fostering a vibrant community focused on innovation in culture.

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Bernard Gimbel

Businessman, Gimbel's Department Stores
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1966 58 years ago — 81 years old

Founded Gimbel's Department Stores in the early 1900s, establishing a pioneering retail chain that expanded to multiple locations across the United States. Played a significant role in popularizing the concept of department stores by introducing innovative retail practices and modern merchandising techniques. Oversaw the company's growth during the mid-20th century, helping to shape the landscape of American retail. Contributed to philanthropic efforts, supporting various community initiatives and organizations.

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Rolf Maximilian Sievert

Physicist known for radiation measurement
Born
May 6th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1966 58 years ago — 70 years old

A Swedish physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of radiation measurement and dosimetry. Developed the Sievert, a unit of measurement for ionizing radiation, as part of work to quantify radiation exposure and its biological effects. Engaged in research related to radiation effects on health and established guidelines for safe radiation levels. Held a position at the Karolinska Institute and contributed to the development of medical applications of radiation.

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Grigoris Asikis

Greek singer-songwriter known for rebetiko
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
October 7th, 1966 58 years ago — 76 years old

Born in Greece, a significant figure in the rebetiko music genre, which reflects the experiences of urban Greeks. Asikis contributed to the evolution of this musical style, blending traditional Greek sounds with modern influences. His career spanned several years during which he wrote and performed numerous songs that resonated deeply with the struggles and joys of everyday life. He became well-known for his distinct voice and emotive performances, capturing the essence of Greek culture through music. His works remain an integral part of Greek musical heritage, influencing future generations of artists. Asikis passed away in 1966, leaving behind a rich legacy of songs that continue to evoke the spirit of rebetiko.

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Charlotte Cooper

Tennis player, first women's singles champion
Born
September 22nd, 1870 154 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1966 58 years ago — 96 years old

First achieved prominence as a tennis player in the late 19th century. Won the inaugural women's singles title at Wimbledon in 1884, becoming the first female champion in the history of the tournament. Competed successfully against both male and female opponents, showcasing skills in tennis that contributed to the sport's popularity. Continued to participate in various national and international tournaments throughout the 1890s.

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Louise Thuliez

French Resistance fighter and author
Born
December 12th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1966 58 years ago — 84 years old

During both World Wars, a schoolteacher actively participated in resistance efforts against occupying forces. In World War I, contributed to the war effort and later helped to establish networks that facilitated the escape of soldiers and civilians from Nazi Germany during World War II. Documented experiences and strategies in authorial works, offering insights into resistance activities. Engagement in feminist causes further highlighted contributions to social issues.

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