What Happened This Year 1986

People Who Died in 1986

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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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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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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Teddy Wilson

Pianist and educator, jazz innovator
Born
November 24th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 74 years old

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.

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Ida Cook

English campaigner for Jewish refugees
Born
August 24th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 82 years old

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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O'Kelly Isley Jr.

R&B/Soul Singer-Songwriter, The Isley Brothers
Born
December 25th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1937, this American singer-songwriter gained fame as a founding member of the Isley Brothers, a group that significantly influenced the genres of R&B and soul music. The group started as a gospel group and transitioned to pop and rock music, achieving great success. Their hit singles included 'Shout' and 'It's Your Thing'. The Isley Brothers were known for their dynamic performances and rich harmonies, helping shape the sound of American music across various decades. This artist's contributions helped cement the group's legacy in the music industry, making them one of the most enduring acts in popular music history.

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Aleksandr Kronrod

Mathematician known for computer science work
Born
October 22nd, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 65 years old

A mathematician and computer scientist contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and computational theory. Authored research papers focusing on functional analysis and mathematical logic. Served as a professor at leading Russian academic institutions. Played a key role in developing operational research methodologies within the Soviet Union. Engaged in various academic collaborations, enhancing the mathematical community's understanding of specific theories.

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