What Happened This Year 1966

People Who Died in 1966

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

Howard Kinsey

American tennis player and tournament champion
Born
December 3rd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 67 years old

Competed primarily in the 1920s and 1930s in tennis, achieving notable success in both singles and doubles play. Achieved significant victories in various tournaments, including winning the U.S. National Championships in 1929. Also excelled in doubles, securing titles at prestigious events. Contributed to the growth of tennis during this era.

Continue Reading

Marguerite Higgins

American journalist and author
Born
September 3rd, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 45 years old

An American journalist and author, this individual gained prominence during the Vietnam War. The journalism career included reporting for the New York Herald Tribune, covering both World War II and the Korean War. Authored 'War in Korea: The Report of a Woman Combat Correspondent,' which documented experiences of combat. Contributed to the coverage of significant global events, becoming one of the first women to report from the front lines.

Continue Reading

Anna Johnson Pell Wheeler

Mathematician specializing in topology
Born
May 5th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of topology and made advancements in differential equations. Worked as a professor at several institutions, including the University of California, Berkeley. Published numerous papers that explored the foundations of topology and its applications. Played a critical role in expanding the educational opportunities for women in mathematics and encouraged female students to pursue mathematical studies.

Continue Reading

Thaddeus Shideler

American hurdler, Olympic athlete
Born
October 17th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 83 years old

Competed in the men's 110 meters hurdles at the 1904 Summer Olympics in St. Louis. Athletic career showcased prowess in hurdles, representing the United States. Achieved recognition through participation in Olympic events during the early 20th century, contributing to the legacy of American track and field sports.

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

Archer Baldwin

American farmer and politician
Born
December 30th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 83 years old

Significant contributions to local governance took place alongside a career as a farmer. Served in local government positions, influencing agricultural policies and community initiatives. Engagement in legislative matters aimed at improving farming practices and supporting rural development characterized the political role. Advocacy for farmers' rights and sustainable agriculture was prominent.

Continue Reading

Bill Carr

American runner, Olympic medalist
Born
October 24th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 57 years old

Competed in the 800 meters and 1500 meters events. Secured a bronze medal at the 1936 Berlin Olympics in the 800 meters. Established several American records in middle-distance running during the 1930s. Represented the United States in various international competitions and contributed to the sport's development.

Continue Reading

Georgia Douglas Johnson

American poet and playwright
Born
September 10th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance, authored several volumes of poetry including "The Heart of a Woman" and plays that explored African American life and experiences. Engaged in literary societies and worked to promote the arts, providing a platform for Black writers. Contributed to various anthologies of the time, reinforcing the significance of African American literature.

Continue Reading