What Happened This Year 2006
People Who Died in 2006
Ondina Valla
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.
Continue ReadingJean-Christophe Lafaille
Born in France, Lafaille gained recognition as a prominent mountaineer specializing in high-altitude climbs. Achievements included numerous ascents of peaks in the Himalayas and the Andes. Lafaille became the first person to summit Lhotse without supplementary oxygen, showcasing exceptional climbing skills in extreme conditions. His expeditions are noted for their technical difficulty and personal courage.
Continue ReadingWolfgang Unzicker
A prominent chess player, achieved the title of International Grandmaster in 1950. Competed in numerous tournaments throughout Europe, securing notable finishes. Participated in the Candidates Tournaments, a crucial series of competitions to select challengers for the World Chess Championship. Contributed to chess literature and theory, writing analysis and studies on various openings.
Continue ReadingDuke Jordan
A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the bebop movement. Collaborated with many notable musicians and recorded extensively. Worked with Charlie Parker and was part of the original lineup of the group that recorded 'Birdland.' Became an influential figure in jazz education later in life.
Continue ReadingRobert Bruce Merrifield
An American biochemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of peptide synthesis. Developed the solid-phase peptide synthesis method in the early 1960s, revolutionizing peptide chemistry and enabling the synthesis of biologically important peptides. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1984 for this groundbreaking work, which allowed for advancements in both pharmacology and biochemistry. Held a long-standing academic career at institutions such as the Rockefeller University.
Continue ReadingChoi Kyu-hah
Served as the fourth President of South Korea from 1979 to 1980 following the assassination of Park Chung-hee. Prior to the presidency, held various governmental positions, including Minister of Home Affairs and Prime Minister. Upon assuming the presidency, faced significant political challenges and public unrest amidst a transitioning government. Resigned after a brief term in office, which was marked by dissent and the need for democratic reform.
Continue ReadingFreddie Garrity
A prominent figure in the entertainment industry, contributed significantly to music and television during the 1960s and 1970s. Lead singer of the band Freddie and the Dreamers, achieved popularity with a string of hits including 'I'm Tellin' You Now'. Transitioned into television, starring in various shows that captured the audience's attention. Known for energetic performances and distinctive style.
Continue ReadingDesmond Dekker
A prominent Jamaican singer-songwriter, this artist rose to fame in the 1960s with the hit single 'Israelites'. The song became one of the first reggae tracks to gain international attention, contributing to the genre's global popularity. This artist's music blended elements of ska and rocksteady, evolving into the reggae style that characterized the period. Throughout the career, live performances showcased a unique vocal style and rhythmic energy that resonated with audiences. The work in the studio produced several other singles that reflected social themes and personal narratives, influencing generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingDavid T. Lykken
Contributions to behavioral genetics and twin studies characterized extensive research into the genetic and environmental sources of personality and behavior. Held a prominent academic position at the University of Minnesota, where collaborations and studies elucidated the role of genetics in various human traits. Published numerous papers and authored influential books that advanced the understanding of the interplay between heredity and environmental factors in shaping individual differences.
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