What Happened This Year 1986
People Who Died in 1986
Teddy Wilson
A prominent American jazz pianist and educator, contributions to the genre spanned several decades. Started career in the 1930s with the Benny Goodman Orchestra, helping to popularize swing music. Worked with many notable musicians including Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday, shaping the sound of jazz piano. In addition to performing, dedicated time to teaching, influencing future generations of musicians. Continued to perform and record until his passing in 1986.
Continue ReadingGregory Jarvis
An engineer and astronaut, contributions included serving on the STS-51-L mission as a payload specialist aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger. This mission tragically ended in an accident shortly after launch on January 28, 1986. Worked with various organizations including NASA and held roles that focused on advanced technologies. Collaborated on multiple projects emphasizing aerospace engineering and education.
Continue ReadingEddie "Lockjaw" Davis
An influential tenor saxophonist, recognized for contributions to jazz music. Collaborated with notable artists such as Count Basie and the Heath Brothers. Recorded both as a leader and as a sideman, contributing to the development of hard bop. Worked extensively in clubs and festivals throughout the United States, showcasing virtuosity and distinct tone. Participated in various recordings that helped shape modern jazz.
Continue ReadingGeorges Dumézil
Contributed significantly to the field of philology and comparative mythology. Developed the theory of the tripartition of societies, which influenced the study of Indo-European cultures. Served as a professor at the Collège de France and published extensively on ancient texts and mythologies. His analysis of the social structures of ancient peoples shaped the understanding of their cultures and religious practices.
Continue ReadingRonald McNair
A physicist and astronaut completed two missions with NASA as part of the Space Shuttle program. Earned a doctorate in physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Participated in STS-41-B and STS-51-L missions. Tragically died in the Challenger disaster on January 28, 1986, while fulfilling a mission to deploy satellites and conduct scientific experiments.
Continue ReadingLee Dorsey
Born in 1924, this artist became a prominent figure in the New Orleans music scene. Initially working as a mechanic, transitioned to music and signed with the record label Fury Records. Achieved significant success in the 1960s with hit songs that reached the top of the charts. In addition to recording, also performed live, captivating audiences with a unique style that blended rhythm and blues with popular music. Worked with several well-known producers and musicians throughout his career, contributing to the evolution of the genre.
Continue ReadingAltiero Spinelli
Born in 1907, this politician and theorist advocated for European federalism. He contributed to the drafting of the Ventotene Manifesto during World War II, which called for a united Europe. His efforts in European integration led to significant involvement in the establishment of European institutions. This individual served as a member of the European Parliament, promoting policies that supported European unity and integration throughout the latter half of the 20th century.
Continue ReadingHoward Greenfield
A notable songwriter, contributed to the music industry primarily during the 1960s. Collaborated with composers to produce a range of popular songs. Worked extensively with several prominent artists, creating timeless tunes that have been covered by various musicians. Also wrote lyrics for songs in films and television, further expanding the reach of work. Contributed to the development of the pop music genre during a transformative era.
Continue ReadingFritz Hochwälder
Born in Austria in 1911, this playwright became prominent in the mid-20th century with works that examined social and political themes. The smooth blend of drama and satire in his writings attracted attention across German-speaking countries. After relocating to Switzerland during World War II, he wrote several notable plays that focused on moral and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in society. Some of these works garnered accolades and were staged in various European theaters, highlighting the playwright's skill in addressing complex issues through engaging narratives.
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