What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

Sandy West

Singer and drummer of The Runaways
Born
July 10th, 1959 65 years ago
Died
October 21st, 2006 18 years ago — 47 years old

Started musical career as the drummer for the all-female rock band The Runaways, which was formed in 1975. The band achieved major success with hit songs including "Cherry Bomb" and "Queens of Noise." After the disbandment of The Runaways in 1979, pursued a solo career and played with various other bands. Also engaged in songwriting during and after her time with The Runaways. Continued performing music until the 1990s.

Continue Reading

Arthur Hill

Canadian-American actor, 'The Andromeda Strain'
Born
August 1st, 1922 102 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 2006 18 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1922, a Canadian-American actor achieved prominence in film and television. Best recognized for performances in 'The Andromeda Strain' and the television series 'The Invaders'. Worked extensively in theater, including performances on Broadway, contributing to a successful career spanning several decades. Received acclaim for a range of dramatic roles.

Continue Reading

William Montgomery Watt

Historian and scholar of Islamic studies
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
October 24th, 2006 18 years ago — 97 years old

A historian and scholar specialized in Islamic studies, significant contributions to understanding the life of Muhammad and the development of Islamic thought occurred. Profound analysis of historical texts and context provided insights into early Islamic history. Watt also engaged in comparative religion and provided critical perspectives on modern Islam, contributing articles and books that shaped academic discourse. Academic positions included tenure at the University of Edinburgh, influencing generations of students and scholars in the field. His research expanded beyond religious studies into intercultural dialogue and understanding.

Continue Reading

Enolia McMillan

American educator and civil rights activist
Born
October 20th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
October 24th, 2006 18 years ago — 102 years old

Significant contributions to education and civil rights characterized a career dedicated to promoting equity and justice. Established the first African American Parent Teacher Association in Washington D.C., advocating for the rights of African American children in public schools. Played a key role in the integration of public schools during the civil rights movement. Worked alongside various organizations to improve educational opportunities for minority students and to fight against segregation policies.

Continue Reading

Pontus Hultén

Art collector and historian
Born
June 21st, 1924 100 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2006 18 years ago — 82 years old

An influential figure in the art world, played a critical role in the development of several art institutions. Served as the first director of the Moderna Museet in Stockholm, which became a significant venue for contemporary art. Organized numerous important exhibitions including 'The New American Painting' and contributed to establishing the significance of Swedish art on the international stage. Worked extensively on the promotion and preservation of modern art throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Joe Niekro

American baseball pitcher, All-Star
Born
November 7th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
October 27th, 2006 18 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent baseball pitcher, played primarily for the Houston Astros and the Detroit Tigers. Competed in Major League Baseball from 1967 to 1988. Selected as an All-Star in 1979 and gained recognition for his effective knuckleball pitch. Achieved over 200 career wins, establishing himself as a reliable starter. Concluded professional career after playing for the Atlanta Braves.

Continue Reading

Reko Lundán

Finnish journalist and author
Born
1969 56 years ago
Died
October 27th, 2006 18 years ago — 37 years old

A Finnish journalist and author contributed significantly to literature and journalism. Engaged in various media outlets, authored numerous articles and books, and focused on political and social issues in Finland. Collaborated with prominent publications to produce in-depth reports revealing societal challenges. Emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in governance throughout the writing career. Contributed to cultural discourse through essays and commentary on Finnish society.

Continue Reading

Brad Will

Journalist and activist focusing on Oaxaca
Born
1970 55 years ago
Died
October 27th, 2006 18 years ago — 36 years old

A journalist and activist emphasized grassroots movements and social justice issues in Mexico. Worked for various media outlets, covering protests and political unrest. Documented the 2006 Oaxaca protests against government repression. Engaged in community-based projects to highlight struggles of marginalized groups. Death occurred during reporting on these events in Oaxaca, leading to increased attention on journalist safety and activism.

Continue Reading

Jozsef Gregor

Hungarian opera singer and bass-baritone
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
October 27th, 2006 18 years ago — 66 years old

This opera singer gained recognition for performances in esteemed operatic productions across Europe. Trained in Budapest, his career spanned several decades, showcasing his talents in major opera houses. He performed in renowned works, including 'The Magic Flute' and 'Don Giovanni'. The singer was a prominent presence in the Hungarian State Opera, contributing to its cultural landscape. His contributions extended internationally, with appearances in opera festivals and concert performances that highlighted his vocal abilities.

Continue Reading