What Happened This Year 1966
People Who Died in 1966
S. S. Kresge
Founder of Kmart, a discount store chain, established Kresge & Company in 1899. Expanded the business into a national chain, which became a significant competitor in the retail market. Kmart revolutionized discount retailing by offering a wide range of products at lower prices. The first Kmart store opened in 1962, marking the company as a key player in the retail industry.
Continue ReadingEd Lewis
A prominent figure in professional wrestling from the 1920s to 1950s, served as both a wrestler and manager. Achieved significant success in the ring and later transitioned to managing other wrestlers. Became a popular draw in various wrestling promotions across the United States. Developed a reputation for his charismatic personality and strategic insights within the sport, influencing the way wrestling was presented to audiences.
Continue ReadingMina Loy
Born in 1882, this British modernist poet and artist contributed significantly to the avant-garde movement. A participant in the New York Dada scene, innovative works included poetry collections and manifestos that challenged traditional literary forms. The 'Lunar Baedecker' stands out as a pivotal work, reflecting intricate themes of feminism and identity. Besides poetry, visual artwork included abstract canvases and collage. Later in life, the artist explored various mediums, continuing to influence the landscape of modernist art and literature until passing in 1966.
Continue ReadingSylvère Maes
Competitor in professional cycling, with a significant presence in the early decades of the Tour de France. Claimed victory in the 1939 Tour de France, showcasing formidable endurance and racing skill. Competed in the 1936 Olympics, representing Belgium in road cycling. Achieved multiple victories in prestigious one-day races and composed a notable legacy in Belgian cycling history.
Continue ReadingRenzo Rivolta
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 ReadingAnna Johnson Pell Wheeler
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 ReadingBernhard Zondek
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 ReadingMary Logan Reddick
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 ReadingNarcisa de Leon
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.
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