What Happened This Year 1986
People Who Died in 1986
Bobby Layne
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.
Continue ReadingJ. Allen Hynek
Contributed significantly to the study of unidentified flying objects. Developed the 'Hynek classification system' to categorize UFO sightings. Served as a scientific advisor for the U.S. Air Force's Project Blue Book, which investigated UFO reports. Established the Center for UFO Studies in 1973 to investigate reported sightings using scientific methods. Authored several books on the subject, including 'The UFO Experience: A Scientific Inquiry'.
Continue ReadingAltiero Spinelli
Born in 1907, this politician and theorist advocated for European federalism. He contributed to the drafting of the Ventotene Manifesto during World War II, which called for a united Europe. His efforts in European integration led to significant involvement in the establishment of European institutions. This individual served as a member of the European Parliament, promoting policies that supported European unity and integration throughout the latter half of the 20th century.
Continue ReadingMasti Venkatesha Iyengar
Contributed significantly to Kannada literature through various novels, essays, and translations. Focused on social themes, cultural issues, and the richness of Kannada language. Worked as an academic, promoting literary studies and cultural awareness. Had a key role in elevating modern Kannada fiction and wrote extensively on literary criticism. Was also involved in the Karnataka Sahitya Akademi, playing an integral role in encouraging writers and fostering literary talent.
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 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.
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