What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

Ondina Valla

Italian sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
May 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 90 years old

Achieved prominence as a sprinter and hurdler in the mid-20th century. Competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where secured a gold medal in the women's 80 meters hurdles. Valla also participated in other track events, setting national records and earning recognition within Italian athletics. Her athletic career spanned several years, with significant performances in various competitions.

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S. Yizhar

Israeli academic and politician
Born
September 27th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 90 years old

An influential Israeli academic and politician, Yizhar contributed significantly to education and civil rights. In academia, served as a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and was active in various educational initiatives. In the political arena, held a position in the Knesset for the Mapai party, where engaged in legislative efforts. Wrote extensively on issues regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and advocated for education reform. His literary contributions included essays and discussions on national identity and social justice.

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Joseph Ki-Zerbo

Historian, politician, and writer
Born
June 21st, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 84 years old

A Burkinabé historian and politician, played a significant role in the intellectual and political life of Burkina Faso. Authored several works on African history, challenging Eurocentric narratives and promoting the understanding of African heritage. Participated in the political movements post-independence, advocating for social justice and educational reforms. Contributed to the founding of the National Council of the Revolution in Burkina Faso and served as a member of the National Assembly.

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Otto von Bülow

German military commander
Born
October 16th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 95 years old

Served as a commander in the German military during World War II. Held various leadership positions and contributed to military strategies in multiple campaigns. Commanded significant operations and was noted for his tactical approaches within the military structure of the time.

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Moe Drabowsky

Baseball player and coach, Chicago Cubs
Born
July 21st, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 71 years old

A Polish-American baseball player and coach. Played Major League Baseball as a pitcher from 1956 to 1971. Contributed to teams such as the Chicago Cubs and the Baltimore Orioles. Transitioned to coaching after retirement and served in various roles.

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Esther Lederberg

Microbiologist and geneticist
Born
December 18th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 84 years old

Contributions to microbiology included work on bacterial genetics and the development of methods to study the interactions of viruses and bacteria. Established the importance of transduction in bacteria utilizing the bacteriophage. Collaborated with the husband in various research projects, including studies on the lambda phage and strain construction in Escherichia coli. Pioneering work laid foundations for future research in molecular genetics and understanding of bacterial recombination.

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Beatriz Sheridan

Mexican actress and director of plays
Born
June 25th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1934, a prominent figure in Mexican theater, directing influential plays and establishing a legacy in performing arts. Worked extensively in television, particularly in series that explored social issues. Contributed to the development of dramatic arts in Mexico, shaping the cultural landscape through artistic expression.

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Harry Browne

American politician and soldier
Born
June 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 73 years old

Joined the U.S. Army and served during the Korean War. Became a prominent libertarian politician and was the Libertarian Party nominee for President in 1996 and 2000. Authored several books on personal finance and libertarianism, including 'How I Found Freedom in an Unfree World' and 'The Economic Solution'. Worked as an investment advisor and financial planner.

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John Tenta

Professional wrestler and sumo competitor
Born
June 22nd, 1963 61 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 43 years old

Began wrestling early in life and gained prominence in the professional wrestling circuit under the ring name Earthquake. Competed in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) during the 1990s, becoming part of significant storylines and rivalries. Transitioned from amateur wrestling to collegiate and professional levels, showcasing diverse skills. Also participated in sumo wrestling, achieving the rank of makushita. Known for his imposing size and strength, he became a memorable character in wrestling history, engaging with fans during and after matches.

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