What Happened This Year 1986

People Who Died in 1986

Alexander Akimov

Chernobyl reactor operator during disaster
Born
May 6th, 1953 71 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 33 years old

Worked as a senior control room operator at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. Involved in the operation during the catastrophic accident on April 26, 1986. Played a pivotal role in managing the reactor's conditions and responding to the emergency. Subsequently faced severe health issues due to radiation exposure, leading to hospitalization and eventual death as a result of the disaster's aftermath.

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Ellison Onizuka

Astronaut and engineer with NASA
Born
June 24th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 40 years old

An engineer and astronaut, contributed to space exploration as a NASA astronaut. Selected as one of the first members of the group of astronauts formed after the Apollo program. Flew on the Space Shuttle Discovery as a mission specialist for STS-51-L in 1986. Part of the crew that tragically lost their lives in the Challenger disaster. Worked on various missions that included research in microgravity and telecommunications. Notably the first Asian American astronaut in space.

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Tim McIntire

Actor and Singer in American Film
Born
July 19th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 42 years old

An American actor and singer, contributions spanned stage and screen. Appeared in the 1973 film "American Graffiti" as Steve Bolander and played the title role in the 1979 television film "The Great Smokey Roadblock." Additionally, performed in various theatrical productions and contributed to music, notably through his work in the country genre. His versatility allowed for engagements in both acting and musical performances throughout his career.

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André Barbeau

Neurologist focusing on brain disorders
Born
May 27th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent neurologist, contributions included research in Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Significant work involved studying the effects of neurotoxins and neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. Engaged in numerous clinical trials to advance treatment options for various neurological disorders. Published extensively in scientific journals, influencing future research in neurology.

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Fritz Hochwälder

Austrian playwright and author
Born
May 28th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 75 years old

Born in Austria in 1911, this playwright became prominent in the mid-20th century with works that examined social and political themes. The smooth blend of drama and satire in his writings attracted attention across German-speaking countries. After relocating to Switzerland during World War II, he wrote several notable plays that focused on moral and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in society. Some of these works garnered accolades and were staged in various European theaters, highlighting the playwright's skill in addressing complex issues through engaging narratives.

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Altiero Spinelli

Italian politician and federalist theorist
Born
August 31st, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 79 years old

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.

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Lee Dorsey

American singer-songwriter and musician
Born
December 24th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 62 years old

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.

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Ronald McNair

Physicist and Space Shuttle Astronaut
Born
October 21st, 1950 74 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 36 years old

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.

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Gregory Jarvis

American engineer and NASA astronaut
Born
August 24th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 42 years old

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.

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