What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

Angelica Rozeanu

Table tennis champion and Olympian
Born
October 15th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 85 years old

A Romanian-Israeli table tennis player, had a distinguished career in the sport during the mid-20th century. Began competing in international tournaments in the 1930s, representing Romania. Achieved remarkable success in numerous championships and is celebrated for her skill and technique. Transitioned to represent Israel later in life following emigration. Competed in the 1960 Rome Olympics and won multiple international titles, becoming one of the top players in the world.

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Cho Nam-chul

South Korean Go player with multiple titles
Born
November 30th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1932, a proficient Go player emerged as a significant figure in the world of Go. Achieved the prestigious title of 9-dan and participated in numerous national and international tournaments. Competed against top players and contributed to the popularity of the game, especially in South Korea. Has been associated with the Korean Baduk Association, serving in various capacities to promote the game.

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Joseph Ki-Zerbo

Historian, politician, and writer
Born
June 21st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2006 20 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 114 years ago
Died
2006 20 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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Esther Lederberg

Microbiologist and geneticist
Born
December 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2006 20 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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Duke Jordan

American pianist and composer
Born
April 1st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 84 years old

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.

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Jean-Christophe Lafaille

Mountaineer and high-altitude climber
Born
March 31st, 1965 60 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 41 years old

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.

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John Tenta

Professional wrestler and sumo competitor
Born
June 22nd, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2006 20 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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Rocío Jurado

Spanish singer with notable albums
Born
September 18th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent singer and actress in Spanish-speaking countries, gained recognition for a powerful voice and emotional performances. Achieved prominence in the 1970s and 1980s, releasing numerous albums that showcased a blend of traditional flamenco and pop music. Starred in several television series, including 'La Lola' and 'Viviendo' and appeared in films. Became an influential figure in Spanish music, receiving multiple awards throughout her career, including the Gold and Platinum Record certifications.

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