What Happened This Year 1936

Born in 1936

Jan Němec

Czech film director and screenwriter
Born
July 12th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2016 9 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed to the New Wave movement in Czech cinema during the 1960s. Directed several notable films, including 'Diamonds of the Night', which depicted the struggles of two Jewish boys escaping from a transport to a concentration camp. Němec faced censorship after the Prague Spring in 1968, leading to his exile from Czechoslovakia for over two decades. After returning, continued to create films, often focusing on themes of memory and identity. 'The Party and the Guests' was another significant work that critiqued totalitarianism.

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Albert Ayler

Avant-garde jazz saxophonist and composer
Born
July 13th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 34 years old

A prominent avant-garde jazz saxophonist and composer emerged in the 1960s, contributing significantly to the free jazz movement. Renowned for a distinctive sound characterized by intense emotion and spirituality, utilized extended techniques and improvisation. Released several influential albums including "Spiritual Unity" and "Love Cry," reflecting personal and cultural themes. Collaborated with notable musicians and participated in key performances that shaped the avant-garde jazz scene. His innovative approach influenced many artists across various genres.

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Robert F. Overmyer

Astronaut and test pilot
Born
July 14th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1996 28 years ago — 59 years old

Served as a colonel in the United States Air Force and was a test pilot prior to joining NASA. Flew as a mission specialist on the Space Shuttle Discovery during STS-5 in November 1984. Participated in the 1984 mission that was the first to deploy commercial satellites. Overmyer's career also included significant contributions to various flight testing programs and training astronaut candidates.

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George Voinovich

American politician and Ohio Governor
Born
July 15th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1936, a prominent lawyer and politician served as the 65th Governor of Ohio from 1991 to 1994. Prior to this role, served as the Mayor of Cleveland. In the U.S. Senate from 1999 to 2011, focused on various issues including waste management and fiscal responsibility. Advocated for education and infrastructure development. Retired from politics in 2011.

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Yasuo Fukuda

Japanese politician, former Prime Minister
Born
July 16th, 1936 88 years ago

Served as the 91st Prime Minister of Japan from September 2007 to September 2008. Held significant roles within the Liberal Democratic Party, contributing to various policy discussions and governmental strategies. Prior to premiership, worked as Minister for Health and Welfare and Minister of State for Administrative Reform. Resigned from office after facing challenges in securing political support. Advocated for a balanced approach to economic and international issues during tenure as Prime Minister.

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Jerry Norman

Sinologist and linguist specializing in Chinese
Born
July 16th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2012 12 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent sinologist and linguist contributed significantly to the study of Chinese languages. Focused on documenting and analyzing various Chinese dialects, highlighted the diversity and complexity of the language. Authored several notable works on Chinese phonetics and grammar, which are widely used in academic settings. Held positions at prestigious universities and participated in numerous linguistic conferences, influencing the field of sinology through research and mentorship. His scholarly work continues to be referenced by students and experts alike.

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Buddy Merrill

American guitarist and television performer
Born
July 16th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 85 years old

A guitarist gained fame as a performer on television, particularly through appearances on 'The Lawrence Welk Show'. His guitar skills included both classical and popular styles, showcasing versatility. Contributions to the music industry included recordings in various genres and collaborations with notable musicians.

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David Colquhoun

English pharmacologist and academic leader
Born
July 19th, 1936 88 years ago

A pharmacologist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of drug action and pharmacodynamics. Served as a professor at University College London. Published numerous papers and has engaged in discussions on the misuse of science in pharmacology and medicine. Instrumental in highlighting the importance of evidence-based practice in the field of pharmacology.

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Barbara Mikulski

American politician, U.S. Senator
Born
July 20th, 1936 88 years ago

Born in 1936, a politician served in the U.S. Senate from 1987 to 2017 representing Maryland. Prior to the Senate, served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1977 to 1987. Played a key role in various legislative efforts including healthcare, education, and women's rights. Frequently advocated for social issues and was a prominent voice in the Democratic Party. Elected as the first female Senator from Maryland and recognized as the longest-serving woman in congressional history upon retirement.

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