What Happened This Year 1986

People Who Died in 1986

Maria L. de Hernández

Mexican-American rights activist
Born
July 29th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1986 40 years ago — 90 years old

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 Reading

Christa McAuliffe

Educator and Challenger astronaut
Born
September 2nd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
1986 40 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.

Continue Reading

Raimundo Orsi

Argentinian-Italian footballer and World Champion
Born
December 2nd, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1986 40 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.

Continue Reading

Lionel Murphy

Australian jurist and Attorney-General
Born
August 30th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
1986 40 years ago — 64 years old

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 Reading

Jacques Hélian

French bandleader and composer
Born
June 7th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1986 40 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.

Continue Reading

Ida Rhodes

Mathematician and computer programming pioneer
Born
May 15th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1986 40 years ago — 86 years old

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.

Continue Reading

Bert Hawke

Politician and 18th Premier of Western Australia
Born
December 3rd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1986 40 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.

Continue Reading

Corita Kent

Illustrator and educator known for serigraphs
Born
November 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1986 40 years ago — 68 years old

A significant figure in American art and education, an innovative artist who combined religious themes with modern pop aesthetics. Served as an instructor at Immaculate Heart College in Los Angeles and utilized the medium of serigraphy to produce vibrant, engaging artwork. Famous for the use of typography in art, particularly in her serigraphs, which addressed social issues and the importance of peace and art. Her work included collaborations with various organizations and was celebrated in exhibitions across the United States.

Continue Reading

Lyudmila Rudenko

Soviet chess player and Women's World Champion
Born
July 27th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1986 40 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent Soviet chess player who achieved significant recognition in the mid-20th century. Rudenko won the Women's World Chess Championship in 1950, becoming the second individual to hold the title. She was an accomplished tournament player, competing at a high level in numerous championships. Rudenko was also instrumental in the advancement of women's chess in the Soviet Union, participating in various team events and demonstrating an exceptional skillset in tactical play and endgame strategy.

Continue Reading