What Happened This Year 1986

People Who Died in 1986

Vladimir Kuznetsov

Javelin thrower, Olympic competitor
Born
April 2nd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 55 years old

A javelin thrower achieved prominence in the sport during the mid-20th century. Competed for the Soviet Union in various international events, showcasing exceptional athletic skill. Secured a gold medal at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, marking a significant achievement in athletic history. Dominated national competitions and set multiple records during his career.

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Marlin Perkins

Zoologist and television host, Mutual of Omaha
Born
March 28th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 81 years old

A zoologist and television host, contributed to wildlife education and conservation through television. Hosted the television series 'Wild Kingdom' which aired from 1963 to 1988 and showcased exotic animals and their habitats. Worked at the St. Louis Zoo and played a significant role in promoting zoo practices and animal welfare. Influenced public interest in wildlife through engaging storytelling and on-location filming.

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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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Thad Jones

Trumpet player and jazz composer
Born
March 28th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1923, contributed significantly to the jazz genre as a trumpet player and composer. Played with the Count Basie Orchestra and led his own jazz ensemble, the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra. His compositions and arrangements displayed a unique blend of harmonies and rhythms that shaped modern big band music.

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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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Leif Erickson

American actor, featured in 'The High and the Mighty'
Born
October 27th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1911, this American actor appeared in various films and television shows during the mid-20th century. He gained significant recognition for his role in the film 'The High and the Mighty', which was released in 1954. The actor also appeared in notable series such as 'Daniel Boone' and 'The Loretta Young Show'. With a career spanning several decades, he became a familiar face on television and in cinema, participating in genres ranging from westerns to dramas. Erickson's contributions to the film and television industry remain part of classic American entertainment.

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P. D. Eastman

Children's author and illustrator
Born
November 25th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 77 years old

An American author and illustrator contributed significantly to children's literature. The career featured works that combined simple text with engaging illustrations, making reading accessible and enjoyable for young audiences. Produced a range of beloved children’s books, such as 'Go, Dog. Go!' and 'Are You My Mother?', which became staples in early childhood education. Eastman’s illustrations and storytelling helped shape early reading experiences for countless children.

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Julian Beck

American actor and theatre director
Born
May 31st, 1925 100 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 61 years old

An actor and director who co-founded the Living Theatre, which was influential in experimenting with the boundaries of traditional theatre. Directed and performed in productions that sought to explore the intersection of art and social issues. Was a prominent figure in the avant-garde theatre movement during the 1960s and 1970s. In addition to work in theatre, appeared in films, including 'The Night of the Iguana' and 'The Amityville Horror'.

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Adolfo Celi

Italian actor and director in cinema
Born
July 27th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 64 years old

Began a career in theatre before transitioning to film and television. Gained prominence with roles in Italian cinema and Hollywood. Portrayed Emilio Largo in the James Bond film "Thunderball". Worked extensively in both Italian and international productions.

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