What Happened This Year 1966

People Who Died in 1966

St. Elmo Brady

Chemist and educator, first African American PhD
Born
December 22nd, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 82 years old

First African American to earn a PhD in chemistry at the University of Illinois in 1916. Contributed to the development of curricula for chemistry education at several institutions. Became a prominent educator, teaching at various universities and mentoring numerous students in the field of chemistry. Served as a significant figure in promoting the education of African Americans in the sciences throughout the 20th century.

Continue Reading

Adrianus de Jong

Dutch fencer and Olympian
Born
June 21st, 1882 142 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 84 years old

Born in the Netherlands, a prominent fencer and soldier achieved recognition during the early 20th century. Competing in the 1920 Summer Olympics in Antwerp, displayed skill in individual foil events and contributed to team competitions. Besides sporting pursuits, served in military capacities, balancing a dual career until retirement.

Continue Reading

Renzo Rivolta

Italian engineer, founder of Iso Rivolta
Born
September 5th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 58 years old

An Italian engineer established a company specializing in automobiles, Iso Rivolta. The company began by producing refrigerators and later shifted focus to motorcycles and then cars. Notable for the production of the Iso Grifo, a luxury sports car, and the Iso Rivolta IR 300, which featured a unique design and performance capabilities. The company gained attention in the 1960s for its innovative engineering and design. Rivolta also made contributions to the automotive industry with his engineering expertise.

Continue Reading

Bernhard Zondek

Gynecologist and academic researcher
Born
July 29th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of gynecology and reproductive medicine. Worked extensively on hormonal research and developed early pregnancy tests. Held positions at various academic institutions, including the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Played a pivotal role in establishing reproductive health practices in Israel.

Continue Reading

Mary Logan Reddick

Neuroembryologist, developmental research
Born
December 31st, 1914 110 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 52 years old

Contributed to the understanding of neuroembryology and the development of the nervous system. Focused on the embryonic development of the cerebral cortex and the impact of environmental factors on developing tissues. Worked at the University of Washington and published significant research on brain development in relation to genetics and environment.

Continue Reading

Deems Taylor

American conductor and music critic
Born
December 22nd, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent conductor and music critic, played a significant role in American classical music. Served as a conductor for the New York Philharmonic and conducted many premieres of new works. Authored several influential writings on music, including 'Music: The New Civilization.' Hosted the radio program 'The New York Philharmonic Symphony.'

Continue Reading

Demchugdongrub

Mongol prince and Mengjiang head of state
Born
February 8th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1902, served as the head of state of Mengjiang, a puppet state established by Japan in Inner Mongolia during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Worked to promote Mongolian nationalism and held leadership roles within the Mengjiang government. Involved in military relations between Mengjiang and Japan. After World War II, faced challenges as the region transitioned due to the defeat of Japan, ultimately leading to his downfall and exile.

Continue Reading

Alfred P. Sloan

Businessman and philanthropist, General Motors
Born
May 23rd, 1875 149 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1875, a prominent American businessman served as the president and later as the chairman of General Motors. Headed the company from 1923 to 1946 and played a pivotal role in its expansion, overseeing the introduction of innovative marketing strategies and management practices. Advocated for the development of a diversified range of automobiles tailored to different market segments, which contributed significantly to the automotive industry's structure. Established the Sloan Foundation in support of various educational and scientific initiatives.

Continue Reading

Narcisa de Leon

Filipino film producer and actress
Born
October 29th, 1877 147 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1877, a film producer and actress in the Philippine cinema industry. Co-founded the first major film production company in the Philippines, Lvn Pictures, in 1939. Contributed significantly to the development of local cinema. Produced several notable films that showcased Filipino culture and stories. Also acted in various films during the early years of the Philippine film industry.

Continue Reading