What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

Harry Browne

American politician and soldier
Born
June 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2006 20 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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Beatriz Sheridan

Mexican actress and director of plays
Born
June 25th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2006 20 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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Moe Drabowsky

Baseball player and coach, Chicago Cubs
Born
July 21st, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2006 20 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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S. Yizhar

Israeli academic and politician
Born
September 27th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2006 20 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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Ondina Valla

Italian sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
May 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2006 20 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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Robert Bruce Merrifield

American biochemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
July 15th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 85 years old

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.

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Bob Orton

Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
July 21st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 77 years old

A professional wrestler began wrestling in the 1950s and quickly rose through the ranks of the sport. Competed in numerous wrestling promotions, including the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Known for a distinctive style and memorable gimmicks, this individual became a significant figure in wrestling history. Retired from active competition in the late 1980s but remained involved in the wrestling business through various roles, including training new wrestlers.

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David T. Lykken

Geneticist and academic researcher
Born
June 18th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 78 years old

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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Desmond Dekker

Jamaican Reggae Singer with 'Israelites'
Born
July 16th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 65 years old

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.

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