What Happened This Year 1966

People Who Died in 1966

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.

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Emiliano Chamorro Vargas

President of Nicaragua
Born
May 1st, 1871 153 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 95 years old

Served as the president of Nicaragua during the early 20th century. Held office from 1921 to 1923 and again in 1926. Focused on stabilizing the political situation in Nicaragua during a time of civil unrest and foreign intervention. Participated in the negotiations and agreements with U.S. officials to ensure support for his administration. His leadership was marked by attempts to establish a more centralized government and address the challenges posed by rival political factions.

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Smiley Lewis

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
July 5th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1913, a significant figure in the rhythm and blues genre. Achieved popularity in the 1940s and 1950s. Recorded for Imperial Records, delivering influential tracks that shaped the music scene. The song "I Hear You Knocking" reached wide recognition and later covered by various artists. Collaborated with prominent musicians and contributed to the New Orleans sound, becoming a pivotal artist in the development of rock and roll.

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Verna Felton

American voice actress in Disney films
Born
July 20th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 76 years old

An American actress achieved prominence in voice acting, particularly within Disney films. Voiced characters in 'Cinderella,' 'Alice in Wonderland,' and 'Dumbo.' Started a career on stage and transitioned to radio before focusing on animation. Felton's distinctive voice and character portrayals became integral to many beloved animated features, allowing her to maintain a lasting legacy in the industry.

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Helen Kane

American singer and actress, 'Boop-Oop-A-Doop'
Born
August 4th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 62 years old

Achieved prominence in the 1920s as a singer and actress. Gained recognition for unique vocal style and the song 'I Wanna Be Loved by You.' Appeared in the musical 'Good Boy' and the film 'You Can't Have Everything.' Her signature phrase and style influenced a generation of performers, contributing to the caricature of the flapper image.

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Manuel María Ponce Brousset

President of Peru during a crucial period
Born
April 5th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 92 years old

Served as the President of Peru from 1939 to 1945. Focused on social reforms, economic development, and infrastructure projects. Was involved in efforts to modernize the country's agricultural policies and promoted education initiatives. Also played a role in navigating World War II's impact on Peru, contributing to national security policies and international diplomacy efforts.

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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.

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Gino Severini

Italian-French painter and author
Born
April 7th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1883, a prominent figure in the Italian Futurist movement. His works combined elements of Cubism and Futurism, employing dynamic forms and vibrant colors. Notable for exploring themes of modernity and technology, this artist contributed significantly to the development of modern art. Works included paintings like 'Dynamic Hieroglyphic of the Bal Tabarin' which depicted the energy of urban life and 'The Dancer's Song.' Severini also produced notable writings that further articulated the principles of Futurism and its impact on art and culture. His career spanned several decades, influencing contemporary art movements.

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Nishizō Tsukahara

Japanese admiral and naval leader
Born
April 3rd, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1887, a Japanese admiral served during World War II. Played a significant role in various naval operations. Advanced through ranks in the Imperial Japanese Navy, demonstrating strategic military leadership. Participated in the Battle of Midway and other key Pacific engagements. His leadership during critical naval battles marked a notable career in military history.

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