What Happened This Year 1986

People Who Died in 1986

Teddy Wilson

Pianist and educator, jazz innovator
Born
November 24th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 74 years old

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.

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Ida Cook

English campaigner for Jewish refugees
Born
August 24th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 82 years old

A campaigner advocated for Jewish refugees during World War II, raising significant awareness about their plight and securing aid for those in need. Under the pseudonym Mary Burchell, wrote numerous romantic novels, becoming a popular author in the genre. Engaged in various fundraising activities to support refugees, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian efforts during times of crisis.

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Pepper Adams

Saxophonist and composer
Born
October 8th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 56 years old

An American saxophonist and composer contributed significantly to the jazz genre through innovative baritone saxophone performances. Adams collaborated with prominent jazz musicians including Charles Mingus, Donald Byrd, and Thad Jones. His unique style and improvisational skills garnered attention in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in the hard bop genre. Adams recorded numerous albums, showcasing his abilities as both a solo artist and as part of various ensembles. His work has been influential in shaping the sound of modern jazz.

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Alfredo Binda

Italian cyclist and Tour de France winner
Born
August 11th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent figure in competitive cycling, achievements include victories in three Giro d'Italia races. Binda excelled in a variety of cycling disciplines, earning recognition for strong performances in one-day races. Additionally, Binda won the World Championship title multiple times, solidifying a legacy in the sport.

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O'Kelly Isley Jr.

R&B/Soul Singer-Songwriter, The Isley Brothers
Born
December 25th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1937, this American singer-songwriter gained fame as a founding member of the Isley Brothers, a group that significantly influenced the genres of R&B and soul music. The group started as a gospel group and transitioned to pop and rock music, achieving great success. Their hit singles included 'Shout' and 'It's Your Thing'. The Isley Brothers were known for their dynamic performances and rich harmonies, helping shape the sound of American music across various decades. This artist's contributions helped cement the group's legacy in the music industry, making them one of the most enduring acts in popular music history.

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Nellie Campobello

Mexican writer chronicling the Revolution
Born
November 7th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1900, a prominent Mexican writer who chronicled the events of the Mexican Revolution through literature. Major work includes 'Cartucho', a collection of stories reflecting on her experiences during the war. This work is noted for its vivid depictions of life in Mexico during this turbulent time. The author also contributed to the preservation of revolutionary history through her writings, providing a unique perspective on the conflict and its impact on society.

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Aleksandr Kronrod

Mathematician known for computer science work
Born
October 22nd, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 65 years old

A mathematician and computer scientist contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and computational theory. Authored research papers focusing on functional analysis and mathematical logic. Served as a professor at leading Russian academic institutions. Played a key role in developing operational research methodologies within the Soviet Union. Engaged in various academic collaborations, enhancing the mathematical community's understanding of specific theories.

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Leif Erickson

American actor, featured in 'The High and the Mighty'
Born
October 27th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1911, this American actor appeared in various films and television shows during the mid-20th century. He gained significant recognition for his role in the film 'The High and the Mighty', which was released in 1954. The actor also appeared in notable series such as 'Daniel Boone' and 'The Loretta Young Show'. With a career spanning several decades, he became a familiar face on television and in cinema, participating in genres ranging from westerns to dramas. Erickson's contributions to the film and television industry remain part of classic American entertainment.

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P. D. Eastman

Children's author and illustrator
Born
November 25th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 77 years old

An American author and illustrator contributed significantly to children's literature. The career featured works that combined simple text with engaging illustrations, making reading accessible and enjoyable for young audiences. Produced a range of beloved children’s books, such as 'Go, Dog. Go!' and 'Are You My Mother?', which became staples in early childhood education. Eastman’s illustrations and storytelling helped shape early reading experiences for countless children.

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