What Happened This Year 1986

People Who Died in 1986

Bobby Layne

American football quarterback and coach
Born
December 19th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 60 years old

Played professional American football as a quarterback primarily with the Detroit Lions. Led the Lions to three NFL championships in the 1950s. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from playing, sharing insights gained throughout a successful career in the league. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967, highlighting a significant impact on the sport and recognition among peers.

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Brian Aherne

English actor in classic films
Born
May 2nd, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 84 years old

An English actor active from the 1920s to the 1960s, primarily recognized for roles in classic films. Achieved acclaim for performances in 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and 'Riptide'. Noticed for work in both British and American cinema, spanning across various genres. Collaborated with notable directors and actors, showcasing a versatile range throughout his career. Later transitioned to stage performances, including productions in London's West End.

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Sippie Wallace

American blues singer and pianist
Born
November 1st, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1898, a significant figure in the early blues music scene. Gained recognition for piano skills and powerful vocal style. Recorded numerous tracks, contributing to the development of classic blues. Collaborated with other notable artists and influenced later musicians. Her work during the 1920s, especially with the 1923 recording 'Up the Country Blues,' showcased her unique blend of jazz and blues.

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Red Ruffing

Baseball pitcher and coach with the Yankees
Born
May 3rd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 81 years old

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.

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Christa McAuliffe

Educator and Challenger astronaut
Born
September 2nd, 1948 76 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 38 years old

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.

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Raimundo Orsi

Argentinian-Italian footballer and World Champion
Born
December 2nd, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1901, a forward made significant contributions to professional football, primarily in Europe and South America. Emigrated to Italy in the 1920s and started a successful career with Bologna, where remarkable performances garnered attention. Played for the national teams of both Argentina and Italy, achieving a unique distinction in football history. Featured prominently in the 1934 FIFA World Cup, where Italy secured the championship, marking a prestigious moment in career.

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Jacques Hélian

French bandleader and composer
Born
June 7th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 74 years old

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.

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Bert Hawke

Politician and 18th Premier of Western Australia
Born
December 3rd, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the 18th Premier of Western Australia from 1983 to 1988. Held leadership roles within the Australian Labor Party, focusing on social and economic reforms. Played a significant role in advancing Western Australia's position in national politics, promoting policies that supported growth and stability in the region. Worked towards improving the state's education and health systems, as well as fostering industrial relations. Under leadership, Western Australia experienced economic growth and infrastructure development.

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Bessie Head

Botswanan writer and novelist
Born
July 6th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 49 years old

A significant figure in African literature, produced works that explored themes of identity, race, and the complexities of life in Botswana. Life experiences, including exile and personal hardships, influenced writing style and subject matter. Gained recognition for literary contributions both locally and internationally. First novel, 'When Rain Clouds Gather', published in 1968, focused on the struggles of rural life and development in Botswana. Also wrote 'Maru' and 'A Question of Power', which tackled issues of mental health and colonial history.

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