What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

Marv Breeding

Baseball player and scout for Orioles
Born
March 8th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1934, this American baseball player played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. His career spanned from 1959 to 1961, primarily with the Baltimore Orioles. After his playing career, transitioned to a scouting role and contributed to player development. His understanding of the game and talent evaluation helped shape future rosters.

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Dana Reeve

Actress and activist for disability rights
Born
March 17th, 1961 63 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 45 years old

An actress and singer, engaged in advocacy for disability rights after the illness of a spouse. Achieved recognition for work in theater and television, particularly in the role of "Superman" alongside Christopher Reeve. Contributed significantly to various charitable organizations focused on spinal cord injury research. Appointed as chair of the Christopher Reeve Foundation, promoting awareness and funding for research efforts.

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Robert Lockwood Jr.

American guitarist and blues musician
Born
March 27th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1915, a notable American guitarist contributed significantly to the blues genre. Involved in the Chicago blues scene, worked closely with luminaries such as Muddy Waters and appeared on many recordings. Released several albums, showcasing a unique blend of delta blues and Chicago styles. Recognized for extraordinary skill on the guitar and distinctive vocal style, influenced many musicians in the blues and rock genres. Received the National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts in 1998, highlighting his contributions to American music.

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Henry Beachell

American biologist and botanist
Born
September 21st, 1906 118 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 100 years old

A prominent American biologist and botanist focused on rice genetics and breeding. Contributed significantly to the development of high-yielding rice varieties. Conducted extensive research that led to the creation of improved strains, which supported food production in various countries. Worked at the International Rice Research Institute and collaborated with several agricultural institutions to enhance rice cultivation methods. Published numerous papers and findings in the field of plant genetics, influencing agricultural practices globally.

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Martin David Kruskal

Physicist and mathematician, soliton theory
Born
September 28th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 81 years old

A physicist and mathematician contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and physics. Developed the theory of solitons, which describes wave phenomena in various physical contexts. Worked on mathematical methods for nonlinear waves and fluid dynamics, influencing multiple disciplines. Held a position at Princeton University, engaging in research that advanced understanding of integrable systems. Authored numerous publications and participated in conferences that fostered collaboration among researchers globally.

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King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV

Monarch of Tonga and constitutional reformer
Born
July 4th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 88 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1965, ruling until 2006. Implemented significant constitutional reforms that transitioned Tonga towards a more democratic governance structure. Played a vital role in increasing the political participation of commoners in the Tongan government. Engaged in various international diplomatic missions. Focused on promoting education and economic development within Tonga.

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Billy Mauch

American actor in 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer'
Born
July 6th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 85 years old

Billy Mauch was an American actor who gained recognition in the early 20th century. He performed in film adaptations and stage plays, showcasing his talents in various roles. His most notable performance was in the title role of 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer', a film released in 1930. Mauch's portrayal contributed to the film's success and highlighted his acting abilities, leading to further opportunities in the entertainment industry. Mauch also had a career in radio and worked on several projects throughout his acting career, establishing himself in the performing arts.

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Henry McGee

English actor and singer
Born
May 14th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 77 years old

An English actor and singer, gained prominence in the entertainment industry through various performances in television and theatre. Best recognized for roles in the series 'The Benny Hill Show' and 'The Good Old Days'. Besides acting, contributed to musical performances, showcasing vocal talents in various productions. Active in the industry for several decades, leaving a mark with a blend of comedy and music.

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Benno Besson

Actor and director of 'The Threepenny Opera'
Born
November 4th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 84 years old

An actor, director, and screenwriter born in Switzerland. Worked extensively in theater and film, contributing significantly to adaptations of Bertolt Brecht's works. Directed productions in various languages and influenced European stage practices. Besson's collaborative efforts with prominent playwrights shaped the post-war theater landscape in Germany and Switzerland.

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