What Happened This Year 1936

Born in 1936

Mompati Merafhe

Botswana General and Vice-President
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old

Served as Vice-President of Botswana and held significant military leadership roles. Played a crucial part in the Botswana Defence Force, contributing to national security and stability. Engaged in various political activities aimed at shaping the governance of Botswana, influencing policies and decisions within the government.

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Martin Anderson

American economist and academic
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to economic policy and education in the United States. Served as a principal adviser to President Ronald Reagan and played a key role in the 1980 Republican presidential campaign. Authored several influential books on public policy, economics, and education reform. Held academic positions at various universities and institutions, including the Hoover Institution. Focused on economic consulting and policy formulation throughout an extensive career.

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Wayne Graham

American baseball player and coach
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2024 0 years ago — 88 years old

A former baseball player and coach, had a significant career in collegiate baseball. Served as head coach at Rice University for over 20 years, leading the team to multiple NCAA tournament appearances. Before coaching, played professionally, achieving noteworthy success in minor leagues. Contributed to the development of numerous players who advanced to professional levels. In addition to a successful coaching career, earned the title of national coach of the year in 2003.

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Wolfgang Jeschke

German author and science fiction publisher
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old

An influential German author and publisher, contributed significantly to the science fiction genre. Worked extensively as an editor and publisher, promoting both German and international science fiction literature. Jeschke's literary works included novels that explored complex themes of future societies and technology. His role in publishing supported numerous emerging authors, shaping the landscape of German speculative fiction.

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Robert Daniel

American politician and soldier
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2012 13 years ago — 76 years old

Served in the military and later transitioned to a political career. Engaged in farming while also participating in local governance. Contributed to state-level political discussions and decisions during tenure. Focused on agricultural policies and rural community development.

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Jill Schary Robinson

American novelist and author
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2024 0 years ago — 88 years old

An American novelist, contributions included both fiction and non-fiction works exploring complex themes. Several publications achieved critical acclaim, reflecting on human experiences and societal issues. Significant works included novels that examined personal and historical narratives. Actively engaged in various literary circles and contributed to the evolution of contemporary literature.

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Scott LaFaro

American jazz double bassist
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1961 63 years ago — 25 years old

A pivotal figure in jazz double bass, significantly influenced modern jazz with innovative techniques and artistic approaches. Played in the Bill Evans Trio, contributing to the acclaimed album 'Sunday at the Village Vanguard'. Developed a distinctive and lyrical style that changed the perception of the bass in jazz music.

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Glynn Lunney

American engineer for NASA missions
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2021 4 years ago — 85 years old

An engineer played a key role in the Apollo space program and later contributed to the Space Shuttle program at NASA. Significant responsibilities included serving as a flight director during critical missions, including Apollo 10, which served as a prelude to the first Moon landing. Lunney's expertise and leadership were instrumental in managing flight operations and ensuring mission success. He also worked on the development of the Space Shuttle and oversaw its missions, emphasizing safety and reliability.

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Willie Smith

American blues musician and songwriter
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2011 13 years ago — 75 years old

A notable figure in the blues genre, contributed significantly as a harmonica player and singer-songwriter. Played in various bands and gained recognition for unique vocal style and harmonica skills. Collaborated with several prominent artists in the Chicago blues scene and performed extensively in live venues. Worked alongside fellow musicians to enhance the blues sound, blending traditional elements with innovative approaches.

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