What Happened This Year 1966

People Who Died in 1966

Frank Verner

American Runner, 1908 Olympic Competitor
Born
June 24th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1966 58 years ago — 83 years old

Competed in athletics, specializing in distance running. Participated in the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London, representing the United States. Achieved notable performance in the marathon event, contributing to the early recognition of American long-distance runners on the world stage.

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Jan Brzechwa

Polish author of children's literature
Born
August 15th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1966 58 years ago — 67 years old

An accomplished author and poet, focused primarily on children's literature. Created memorable characters and engaging stories through poems and short tales. Works included beloved collections such as 'Zoo' and 'The ABC'. Contributed significantly to children's publishing in Poland. Active during a period of significant cultural change and produced engaging content that has been cherished by generations.

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George de Hevesy

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 1st, 1885 139 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1966 58 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Hungary, a chemist contributed to the development of modern radiochemistry. Detailed work on isotopes and their applications in medicinal and industrial fields led to groundbreaking research in radioactivity. Held various academic positions in Europe, notably at the University of Freiburg and the Niels Bohr Institute in Copenhagen. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1943 for introducing radioactive tracers in the study of chemical processes. His research significantly advanced knowledge in tracing chemical reactions and understanding the behavior of elements at the atomic level.

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Sad Sam Jones

Baseball player and manager
Born
July 26th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1966 58 years ago — 73 years old

Played in Major League Baseball from 1914 to 1932, primarily as a pitcher. Managed several teams after retirement from playing, contributing to baseball as a coach. Achieved notable success with a strong arm and a distinctive pitching style.

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Delmore Schwartz

American poet and short story writer
Born
December 8th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1966 58 years ago — 52 years old

Contributed significantly to American literature as a poet and short story writer. Became associated with the New York intellectual community. Published works include the poetry collection 'Requiem' and the short story collection 'In Dreams Begin Responsibilities'. His writing often explored themes of existentialism and personal conflict. Served as a mentor to several prominent writers, influencing their careers and writings.

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D. T. Suzuki

Japanese author and Zen Buddhism scholar
Born
October 18th, 1870 154 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1966 58 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent figure in the introduction of Zen Buddhism to the Western world, extensive writings focused on Zen philosophy transformed the understanding of Eastern spirituality. Worked as a professor of Buddhist literature and philosophy, teaching at universities in Japan and the United States. Contributed to the establishment of various Zen centers, fostering the practice of Zen meditation in the West. Published influential texts that explored the relationship between Zen and modern thought.

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Julie Manet

French painter and art collector
Born
November 14th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1966 58 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1878, a prominent French painter and art collector, contributed to the Post-Impressionist movement. Close association with notable artists like Pierre-Auguste Renoir influenced artwork. Housed important works in private collections and participated in various exhibitions. Employed a vibrant color palette and captured intimate portraits that reflected personal and artistic connections.

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Bobby Fuller

American singer-songwriter, 'I Fought the Law'
Born
October 22nd, 1942 82 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1966 58 years ago — 23 years old

Gained prominence in the 1960s as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. Formed the Bobby Fuller Four, achieving success with the single 'I Fought the Law.' The song became a classic rock staple and is one of the most recognized songs of the era. Also released albums such as 'I Fought the Law' and 'Party.'

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Montgomery Clift

American actor in classic films
Born
October 17th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1966 58 years ago — 45 years old

Acclaimed for a powerful film career, an American actor rose to prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. Breakout roles included performances in 'Red River' and 'A Place in the Sun.' Starred in 'From Here to Eternity,' receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Clift's method acting style brought depth to characters, redefining male roles in cinema. Struggled with personal challenges throughout life, impacting later performances.

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