What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

K. Ganeshalingam

Accountant and Mayor of Colombo
Born
January 3rd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2006 18 years ago — 68 years old

An accountant by profession, served as the Mayor of Colombo and held significant influence in the local political landscape. Engaged in various administrative functions, focused on urban development and community services during tenure. Facilitated initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and public facilities in the city. Also contributed to the growth of local governance and representation within Colombo.

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David Bronstein

Chess Player and Theoretician
Born
February 19th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2006 18 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent chess player and theoretician, achievements include challenging for the World Chess Championship in 1951 against Mikhail Botvinnik. Contributed extensively to chess theory and authored numerous chess books. Helped advance the understanding of opening strategies and endgame techniques within the chess community. His innovative approaches influenced many players and analysts in the field.

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Jeane Kirkpatrick

Diplomat and United Nations Ambassador
Born
November 19th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2006 18 years ago — 80 years old

An American academic and diplomat served as the 16th United States Ambassador to the United Nations from 1981 to 1985. Advocated for a strong, active U.S. role in international affairs and supported authoritarian regimes viewed as allies against communism. Played a crucial role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Reagan administration, contributing to debates on human rights and geopolitical strategies. In 1984, became the first woman to hold the UN ambassador position, influencing U.S. relations with Latin America and promoting a conservative foreign policy agenda.

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José Uribe

Baseball player, San Francisco Giants
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2006 18 years ago — 47 years old

A former baseball player from the Dominican Republic, played as a shortstop and second baseman in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 1986 with the San Francisco Giants and played until 1991. Contributed to the team's effort in the National League as a solid infielder. Participated in the Dominican Winter League, gaining recognition for his skills on the field. His career in the majors concluded after playing with the Giants and later the Houston Astros.

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Martha Tilton

Singer and actress from 'The Hit Parade'
Born
November 14th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2006 18 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent singer and actress during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition in the 1940s for performances with the Benny Goodman Orchestra. Became a featured vocalist in films, including 'The Hit Parade' and 'The Canterville Ghost'. Recorded numerous hit songs and became a staple of the swing era. Made appearances in variety shows and musical programs, further solidifying a place in American entertainment history.

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Georgia Gibbs

American singer with chart-topping hits
Born
August 17th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2006 18 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1919, a prominent American singer gained popularity during the 1940s and 1950s. She achieved commercial success with several hit singles and is best remembered for her unique vocal style. The music career included performances in major venues and appearances on radio shows. Gibbs recorded under notable record labels, contributing to the music landscape of the time.

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Augusto Pinochet

Chilean General, 30th President of Chile
Born
November 25th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2006 18 years ago — 91 years old

Rose to prominence as a general in the Chilean Army, leading a military coup that overthrew the democratically elected government of President Salvador Allende in 1973. Subsequently assumed the presidency and governed until 1990, implementing neoliberal economic reforms and establishing a military regime marked by widespread human rights violations. After leaving office, faced legal challenges and various attempts to prosecute for crimes committed during the dictatorship.

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Paul Arizin

Basketball player, 10-time NBA All-Star
Born
April 9th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2006 18 years ago — 78 years old

Played as a forward for the Philadelphia Warriors from 1950 to 1962. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1978. Contributed significantly to the Warriors' success and was a key player in the NBA during his era. Led the league in scoring during the 1951-52 season and was known for his jump shot.

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Peter Boyle

Actor best known for 'Everyone Loves Raymond'
Born
October 18th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2006 18 years ago — 71 years old

An American actor, recognized for a career spanning several decades in film, television, and theater. Gained prominence with a breakthrough role in 'Joe' (1970), showcasing versatility in both comedic and dramatic performances. Portrayed Frank Barone in the acclaimed sitcom 'Everyone Loves Raymond,' which earned several award nominations. Received praise for work in films such as 'Young Frankenstein' (1974) and 'Taxi Driver' (1976). Held a successful career on stage, performing in various productions, including those on Broadway.

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