What Happened This Year 1986

People Who Died in 1986

Edgar Parin d'Aulaire

Author and illustrator of children's books
Born
September 30th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 88 years old

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.

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Ismail al-Faruqi

Philosopher and academic on Islam
Born
January 1st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 65 years old

A Palestinian-American philosopher and academic contributed significantly to Islamic philosophy and cultural studies. Focused on the synthesis of Islamic thought and modernity. Served as a professor at Temple University, where influential academic programs on Islamic studies were developed. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and emphasized the importance of understanding diverse perspectives within the Islamic tradition.

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Lyudmila Pakhomova

Russian ice dancer and Olympian
Born
December 31st, 1946 78 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 40 years old

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.

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Chuck McKinley

American tennis player and Wimbledon champion
Born
January 5th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent tennis player during the 1960s, gained recognition for achievements in both singles and doubles. Won the men's singles title at Wimbledon in 1963, defeating the Australian player Rod Laver in the final. Competed for the United States in the Davis Cup, securing the championship in 1963 and contributing to victories through both singles and doubles matches. After retiring from professional tennis, took part in coaching and promoting the sport.

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Yōjirō Ishizaka

Japanese author and educator
Born
January 25th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 86 years old

An influential author and educator significantly contributed to Japanese literature and education. Authored numerous works focusing on various themes including culture and language. Served as a professor, imparting knowledge and shaping the minds of future generations through teaching and literary contribution.

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Hyman G. Rickover

American admiral and nuclear submarine pioneer
Born
January 27th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in the United States Navy, played a crucial role in the development of the nuclear submarine program. Oversaw the construction and operation of the first nuclear-powered submarine, USS Nautilus, which was launched in 1954 and marked a significant advancement in naval technology. Led initiatives that established the nuclear Navy and influenced military strategy during the Cold War.

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Arne Beurling

Mathematician known for complex analysis
Born
February 3rd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Sweden, a mathematician and academic specialized in complex analysis and functional analysis. Developed the Beurling transform, contributing significantly to harmonic analysis. Worked at the University of Uppsala and later at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey. Offered insights into various areas of mathematics, including operator theory and analytic number theory. His work influenced both theoretical mathematics and its applications. Beurling's academic career spanned several decades, during which he published numerous papers and mentored future mathematicians.

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Jim Ferrier

Australian golfer with major championships
Born
February 24th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 71 years old

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.

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Robert Helpmann

Australian dancer and choreographer
Born
April 9th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 77 years old

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.

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