What Happened This Year 1986
People Who Died in 1986
Red Ruffing
An accomplished baseball pitcher and coach, recognized for a significant career primarily with the New York Yankees. Played from 1924 to 1947, achieving notable success in Major League Baseball. Earned seven American League pennants and participated in six World Series, securing four championships. Developed a reputation for being a reliable starting pitcher and later contributed to the development of future players as a coach.
Continue ReadingJacques Hélian
A prominent figure in French music, led a successful band that performed both in France and abroad. Held a significant role in the post-war music scene, integrating various musical styles. Composed numerous songs that gained popularity during the mid-20th century, contributing to the evolving landscape of French popular music.
Continue ReadingLyudmila Pakhomova
An accomplished ice dancer, this athlete excelled in competitive figure skating in the 1970s and 1980s. Pakhomova partnered with Alexander Gorshkov to achieve significant success in the sport, capturing several titles. The duo secured gold at the 1970 World Championships, earned Olympic gold in 1976, and won multiple European Championships. The innovative style and technical precision displayed in performances set a standard in ice dance. This dancer's contribution to the sport remains influential, as the techniques and artistry developed are still referenced in ice dance today.
Continue ReadingChrista McAuliffe
An educator selected to be the first teacher in space. Participated in the STS-51-L mission aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger. McAuliffe's mission aimed to develop educational programs using the unique perspective of space. Tragically, the Challenger disaster occurred shortly after launch on January 28, 1986, resulting in the loss of all seven crew members, including McAuliffe.
Continue ReadingEdgar Parin d'Aulaire
A German-American author and illustrator was renowned for creating children's books that blended educational content with engaging illustrations. Collaborated closely with his wife, publishing many works that became staples in children's literature. Focused on American history and mythology, producing titles that appealed to young readers. The most notable works include "The Book of Giants," "America, A Patriotic Primer," and the acclaimed biography of Benjamin Franklin.
Continue ReadingPatricia Griffin
Born in Montserrat, a nurse and social worker dedicated a career to the health and welfare of the community. Contributed to advancing nursing standards and practices on the island. Engaged in various social work initiatives aimed at improving the lives of residents, especially disadvantaged individuals. Involved in education and training of future nurses, fostering growth in the local health sector.
Continue ReadingMaria L. de Hernández
Born in 1896, an activist focused on the rights of Mexican-Americans in the United States. Played a crucial role in advocating for immigration rights and social justice within the Mexican-American community. Worked tirelessly to address discrimination and improve living conditions for Mexican-Americans during a time of significant social upheaval. Engaged in various organizations aimed at civil rights and equality.
Continue ReadingLionel Murphy
Served as the 22nd Attorney-General of Australia from 1972 to 1975. Contributed to significant reforms in law, particularly in areas related to civil rights and social justice. Played a key role in the establishment of the Australian Legal Aid Office. Appointed to the High Court of Australia in 1975, serving until 1986. Influenced various legal precedents during tenure on the court.
Continue ReadingIda Rhodes
Born in 1900, this American mathematician contributed significantly to computer programming. Rhodes developed algorithms and played a crucial role in early computing projects. She worked on the first program for the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), one of the earliest electronic general-purpose computers. Rhodes was also instrumental in the development of the first programming languages, laying foundational work for subsequent advancements in the field. The legacy includes pioneering methods that shaped future computer programming education and practices.
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