What Happened This Year 1966

People Who Died in 1966

Yiorgos Theotokas

Greek author and playwright
Born
April 27th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1966 58 years ago — 60 years old

An influential Greek author and playwright, produced significant literary works that contributed to modern Greek literature. Wrote numerous plays and novels that explored themes of identity, society, and history. Received acclaim for both literary and theatrical contributions, solidifying a prominent position in 20th-century Greek literature.

Continue Reading

Mississippi John Hurt

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1966 58 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent American singer-songwriter and guitarist, this artist gained recognition for his unique fingerpicking style and engaging storytelling through music. Born in Mississippi, he performed in various settings during the early to mid-20th century. His work was largely rediscovered during the folk music revival of the 1960s, which brought his music to a new audience. He recorded several albums, showcasing traditional blues and folk songs, and influenced many musicians with his soothing voice and intricate guitar work. The commitment to preserving and performing folk music established a significant legacy within the genre.

Continue Reading

Peter Debye

Physicist with Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Born
March 24th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1966 58 years ago — 82 years old

A physicist and chemist, contributed significantly to the field of physical chemistry. Developed the Debye model for specific heat and the Debye-Hückel theory for electrolyte solutions. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1936 for research on dipole moments and molecular structure. Held academic positions in various institutions, including the University of Göttingen and Cornell University.

Continue Reading

Rube Bressler

Baseball player, 1920 World Series
Born
October 23rd, 1894 130 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1966 58 years ago — 72 years old

Played professional baseball as an outfielder and pitcher during the early 20th century. Had a career spanning from 1915 to 1929. Contributed to the Cincinnati Reds and the Philadelphia Phillies. Played a significant role in the Reds' lineup during the 1920 World Series, helping the team compete at a high level. Bressler's performance included both batting and pitching contributions, showcasing versatility on the field.

Continue Reading

William Zorach

Sculptor and painter, created The Sailor
Born
February 28th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1966 58 years ago — 79 years old

A Lithuanian-American sculptor and painter, Zorach emigrated to the United States at a young age. Zorach studied at the National Academy of Design and became part of the American modernist movement. Zorach's work often featured bold forms and dynamic compositions. The Sailor, a prominent sculpture, exemplified his approach. In addition to sculptures, Zorach created paintings that reflected his love for the American landscape. Zorach's contributions to the art world garnered recognition, and he exhibited his work at major institutions, including the Carnegie Institute and the Whitney Museum of American Art.

Continue Reading

Dimitrios Tofalos

Greek weightlifter and wrestler champion
Born
1877 148 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1966 58 years ago — 89 years old

Competed prominently in weightlifting and wrestling, representing Greece in international competitions. Achieved recognition for success in the 1906 Intercalated Games, where secured a gold medal in weightlifting. Also participated in the 1904 Olympic Games, showcasing skills in both wrestling and weightlifting disciplines.

Continue Reading

Seán T. O'Kelly

Irish politician, 2nd President of Ireland
Born
August 25th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 1966 58 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1882, an influential figure in Irish politics and journalism served as the second President of Ireland from 1945 to 1959. An early member of Sinn Féin, supported the drive for Irish independence. Played a key role in the drafting of the 1937 Constitution of Ireland. Contributed significantly to the establishment of the Irish state and its democratic institutions. Advocated for the promotion of the Irish language and culture during his presidency. Held several government positions prior to his presidency, including Minister for Finance and Minister for Supply.

Continue Reading

L. E. J. Brouwer

Mathematician and philosopher
Born
February 27th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1966 58 years ago — 85 years old

A Dutch mathematician and philosopher, significant contributions were made to topology, fixed-point theorems, and mathematical intuitionism. Developed the Brouwer Fixed Point Theorem, foundational in topology, which states that any continuous function mapping a compact convex set to itself has at least one fixed point. Brouwer's work in intuitionism challenged classical mathematics by arguing that mathematics is a creation of the mind, advocating for a more constructivist approach. Served as a professor at the University of Amsterdam, influencing a generation of mathematicians and philosophers through both teaching and academic writing.

Continue Reading

Giles Cooper

Irish soldier and playwright
Born
August 9th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1966 58 years ago — 48 years old

Served as an officer in the Irish Army during World War II. Wrote plays that explored themes of conflict and personal struggle, contributing to Irish theatre. Notable works include 'The Redundancy of the Dead' and 'The Last of Mr. Fortune'. Held a strong interest in the intersection of politics and art.

Continue Reading