What Happened This Year 1986
People Who Died in 1986
Michael J. Smith
Served as a pilot of the Space Shuttle Challenger on the STS-51-L mission. The flight launched on January 28, 1986, and tragically ended with the destruction of the shuttle 73 seconds after takeoff. Participated in training for this mission and had previously accumulated significant flight hours as a naval aviator. Achievements included operational leadership in military and space environments prior to joining NASA.
Continue ReadingTed Lyons
A professional baseball pitcher, played for the Chicago White Sox from 1923 to 1946. Achieved significant success in Major League Baseball, securing a place in the Hall of Fame in 1973. Contributed to the team's pitching staff with consistent performances and a strong presence on the mound. Retired with notable statistics that solidified a lasting legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingMike Garcia
A Major League Baseball pitcher played primarily for the Cleveland Indians. Career spanned from 1948 to 1961. Achieved an impressive win-loss record and distinguished himself as a top performer on the mound. Played in multiple All-Star Games and contributed significantly to the team's success during his tenure. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching and mentoring roles within the sport.
Continue ReadingPaul Verner
Served as a soldier during World War II and later entered politics in East Germany. Played a key role in the Socialist Unity Party and held significant positions within the government structure. Contributed to the establishment of socialist policies in post-war Germany. Actively participated in shaping the political landscape until the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingDick Scobee
Born in 1939, a pilot and astronaut served in the United States Air Force before joining NASA. Participated in several significant missions, including STS-41-C and STS-51-L, where he held the position of commander. During the latter flight, the Space Shuttle Challenger tragically disintegrated shortly after launch, resulting in the loss of all crew members. Scobee's contributions to space exploration and his leadership during missions are part of his legacy.
Continue ReadingBeryl Markham
Born in Kenya, achieved recognition as a pioneering horse trainer and aviator. Markham became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic from east to west in 1936. Her autobiography, 'West with the Night,' published in 1942, received critical acclaim for its vivid descriptions of life in colonial Kenya and her adventures as a pilot. In addition to her writing and aviation achievements, she trained racehorses, including the notable horse, *The Colonel*. Her contributions to both literature and aviation make her a significant figure in early 20th-century history.
Continue ReadingRobert Helpmann
A prominent figure in the world of dance and theater, this individual served as both a dancer and a choreographer. The major work included contributions to the Australian Ballet, where choreography influenced the development of ballet in Australia. While also acting in film and stage productions, vibrancy was brought to the role of the Child Catcher in the film 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang'. The career spanned several decades, showcasing talent in both performance and choreography.
Continue ReadingJim Ferrier
Born in 1915, a professional golfer who competed primarily in the mid-20th century. Notably won the Australian Open in 1947 and claimed victory at the 1950 PGA Championship, one of golf's four major championships. Achievements include numerous titles in Australia and international competitions, establishing a formidable presence in the golfing world. His career remains significant in the annals of Australian golf history, contributing to the sport during a vibrant era.
Continue ReadingErnst Haas
An Austrian-American photographer and journalist, renowned for pioneering the use of color photography in artistic expression. Initially gained recognition for war photography during World War II, capturing the realities of conflict. Emigrated to the United States in 1946, where he worked for Life magazine and contributed to the visual storytelling of the post-war era. Created iconic works that demonstrated the interplay of light and color, significantly influencing future generations of photographers. Haas's work is included in collections at major museums, and he played a crucial role in establishing color photography as a legitimate and expressive medium.
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