What Happened This Year 1986

Historical Events from This Year 1986 (View all 96)

Transportation & Infrastructure

Official Opening of Gateway Bridge in Brisbane

January 11th, 1986 39 years ago

The Gateway Bridge in Brisbane was officially opened, connecting the southern suburbs to the city. This significant infrastructure project aimed to ease traffic congestion and support regional growth. The construction started in 1980 and took six years to complete, culminating in a grand opening ceremony that showcased the bridge's engineering and design prowess.

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Space Exploration

Bill Nelson's Columbia Space Shuttle Flight

January 12th, 1986 39 years ago

Congressman Bill Nelson flew aboard STS-61-C mission aboard Columbia as a payload specialist. This mission, which launched from Kennedy Space Center, was notable for its unique crew and its focus on satellite deployment and experiments in low Earth orbit. Nelson's participation highlighted the growing collaboration between the government and private sectors in space exploration.

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Politics & Government

Violence Erupts in Aden's Political Struggle

January 13th, 1986 39 years ago

A fierce power struggle emerged in Aden, South Yemen, as supporters of former leader Ali Nasir Muhammad clashed with followers of Abdul Fattah Ismail. This violent clash was characterized by street fighting and widespread chaos as factions vied for control. It resulted in significant casualties, with reports suggesting thousands were affected. The confrontation escalated into a full-scale conflict, deeply impacting the political landscape of the region and revealing underlying tensions within the ruling party.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Aerovías Sud Caravelle Crash in Guatemala

January 18th, 1986 39 years ago

An Aerovías Sud Aviation Caravelle crashed while approaching Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores, Petén, Guatemala, resulting in the deaths of all 94 individuals aboard. The aircraft experienced difficulties before landing, compelling the crew to attempt an emergency landing. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, the plane did not make it to the runway.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

First Federal Celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

January 20th, 1986 39 years ago

Martin Luther King Jr. Day was celebrated for the first time as a federal holiday in the United States, honoring the civil rights leader's legacy. Officially established by legislation signed by President Ronald Reagan in 1983, the day aimed to recognize King's contributions to civil rights and social justice. The holiday was observed on the third Monday in January, which is close to King's birthday on January 15. The inaugural celebration featured various events, including parades and educational programs, emphasizing King's principles of nonviolence and equality.

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Politics & Government

Leabua Jonathan Ousted in Coup Led by General Lekhanya

January 20th, 1986 39 years ago

Leabua Jonathan was removed from power by a coup d'état led by General Justin Lekhanya. This military intervention occurred in Lesotho, where Jonathan's rule had faced growing internal and external pressures. Lekhanya and his forces aimed to restore political stability amidst a deteriorating situation in the country, which had been marked by political unrest and economic challenges. The coup resulted in the establishment of a military government in place of the civilian administration.

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Born in 1986 (View all 826)

Colin Morgan

Northern Irish Actor in Merlin
Born
January 1st, 1986 39 years ago

This individual gained recognition for portraying the character Merlin in the television series 'Merlin', which aired from 2008 to 2012. The role showcased talents and garnered a substantial fanbase. Other notable performances included appearances in the stage adaptation of 'The Tempest' and the Channel 4 series 'Humans'. With a background in drama, this actor has been involved in various theatrical productions, enhancing skills in live performances.

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Glen Davis

Basketball player and NBA champion
Born
January 1st, 1986 39 years ago

Professional basketball player excelled in the NBA. Played college basketball at Louisiana State University, contributing to the team’s success. Entered the NBA in 2007, drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics but traded to the Boston Celtics. Played a key role in the Celtics' 2008 Championship victory. Later played for the Orlando Magic and contributed to teams with scoring and rebounding skills until retiring from professional basketball.

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Pablo Cuevas

Uruguayan tennis player and clay court specialist
Born
January 1st, 1986 39 years ago

A professional tennis player from Uruguay, achieved significant success on the ATP tour, particularly on clay courts. Secured eight ATP singles titles, gaining recognition for strong performances in various tournaments. Reached the quarterfinals of the 2017 French Open, demonstrating notable skill on the Grand Slam stage. Known for consistent play and competitive spirit throughout career.

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Lloyd

Singer-songwriter with R&B hits
Born
January 3rd, 1986 39 years ago

American singer-songwriter achieved recognition in the early 2000s. Debuted with the album 'Southside' in 2004, featuring the hit single 'Get It Shawty.' Gained further success with collaborations and contributions to the R&B genre. Produced several chart-topping tracks and has a distinctive style that blends traditional R&B with contemporary influences. Continues to perform and evolve musically, maintaining a presence in the industry.

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Dana Hussain

Iraqi sprinter and Asian Games participant
Born
January 3rd, 1986 39 years ago

Born in Iraq, a sprinting athlete specialized in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Competed at the Asian Games representing the national team. Participated in various international competitions, earning recognition in track events. Contributed to raising the profile of athletics in Iraq through participation in global sporting events.

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Nikola Peković

Montenegrin basketball player, NBA All-Star
Born
January 3rd, 1986 39 years ago

A professional basketball player, played as a center. Career included time with the Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA. Played a significant role in the team from 2010 to 2017, known for exceptional scoring and rebounding skills. Transitioned from a successful playing career to an executive role in basketball following retirement.

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People Who Died in 1986 (View all 276)

Una Merkel

American actress in classic films
Born
December 10th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1986 39 years ago — 82 years old

An actress primarily active in the early to mid-20th century, contributed to numerous films, showcasing talent in both comedic and dramatic roles. Gained prominence during the advent of sound in film, appearing in many notable productions. Played memorable characters in popular films such as 'Swing Time' and 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer'. Transitioned to television in later years, continuing to showcase abilities in various guest roles throughout different series.

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Phil Lynott

Irish singer-songwriter and musician
Born
August 20th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1986 39 years ago — 36 years old

A prominent Irish musician, prominent as the lead vocalist and bassist of the rock band Thin Lizzy. Gained recognition for blending rock, folk, and blues influences. Wrote hits such as 'The Boys Are Back in Town' and 'Jailbreak,' establishing a reputation for storytelling in lyrics. Also pursued a solo career with albums like 'Solo in Soho.' Contributed to the music scene through production work and remained influential in rock music after death.

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Christopher Isherwood

English-American author of novels
Born
August 26th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1986 39 years ago — 81 years old

An author and academic, this figure gained recognition for works exploring the complexity of human relationships and identity. Major literary contributions include the semi-autobiographical novel 'Goodbye to Berlin,' which depicts life in 1930s Germany. The novel served as inspiration for the musical 'Cabaret' and offered a vivid portrayal of the rise of the Nazi regime. Another significant work, 'A Single Man,' delves into the life of a gay man navigating grief and loneliness in 1960s Los Angeles. This figure also taught creative writing, influencing a new generation of writers.

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Juan Rulfo

Mexican author of 'Pedro Páramo'
Born
May 16th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1986 39 years ago — 68 years old

An influential Mexican author and photographer, contributions included novels and short stories that explored the complexities of rural life in Mexico. 'Pedro Páramo' remains a significant work in Latin American literature, blending magical realism with the harsh realities of existence. Besides fiction, produced substantial photography that captured the essence of Mexican culture and landscapes. Involved in screenwriting for film, bringing literary themes to visual media, including the adaptation of his own work.

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Pierre Fournier

Cellist and educator, classical music
Born
June 24th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1986 39 years ago — 79 years old

An accomplished cellist and educator, contributed significantly to classical music. Studied at the Paris Conservatory and gained recognition for both solo performances and collaborations with various orchestras. Served as a professor at prestigious music institutions, imparting knowledge to future generations of musicians. Recorded numerous albums, showcasing a wide repertoire that included works by Bach, Beethoven, and Dvorak. Associated with leading orchestras in Europe and the United States, highlighted performances at international festivals.

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Jaroslav Seifert

Czech poet and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 23rd, 1901 123 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1986 39 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent figure in Czech literature, this individual was a prolific poet whose work captured the essence of life in Czechoslovakia. Throughout a career spanning several decades, he explored themes of love, nature, and the human condition. His writing flourished during the tumultuous periods of the 20th century, marked by significant political and social upheaval. In 1984, awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for a body of work that showcased lyrical beauty and deep philosophical insights. This recognition highlighted not only the literary contributions but also the cultural significance of the writer's voice during challenging times.

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