What Happened This Year 1986
People Who Died in 1986
Mike 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 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 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 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 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 ReadingTeddy 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 ReadingIda Cook
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.
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.
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