What Happened This Year 1986

People Who Died in 1986

Corita Kent

Illustrator and educator known for serigraphs
Born
November 20th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1986 39 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.

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Ida Rhodes

Mathematician and computer programming pioneer
Born
May 15th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1986 39 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.

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Lionel Murphy

Australian jurist and Attorney-General
Born
August 30th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
1986 39 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.

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Maria L. de Hernández

Mexican-American rights activist
Born
July 29th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1986 39 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.

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Patricia Griffin

Montserratian nurse and social worker
Born
October 24th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Montserrat, a nurse and social worker dedicated a career to the health and welfare of the community. Contributed to advancing nursing standards and practices on the island. Engaged in various social work initiatives aimed at improving the lives of residents, especially disadvantaged individuals. Involved in education and training of future nurses, fostering growth in the local health sector.

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Lyudmila Pakhomova

Russian ice dancer and Olympian
Born
December 31st, 1946 78 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 40 years old

An accomplished ice dancer, this athlete excelled in competitive figure skating in the 1970s and 1980s. Pakhomova partnered with Alexander Gorshkov to achieve significant success in the sport, capturing several titles. The duo secured gold at the 1970 World Championships, earned Olympic gold in 1976, and won multiple European Championships. The innovative style and technical precision displayed in performances set a standard in ice dance. This dancer's contribution to the sport remains influential, as the techniques and artistry developed are still referenced in ice dance today.

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Edgar Parin d'Aulaire

Author and illustrator of children's books
Born
September 30th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 88 years old

A German-American author and illustrator was renowned for creating children's books that blended educational content with engaging illustrations. Collaborated closely with his wife, publishing many works that became staples in children's literature. Focused on American history and mythology, producing titles that appealed to young readers. The most notable works include "The Book of Giants," "America, A Patriotic Primer," and the acclaimed biography of Benjamin Franklin.

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Ernst Haas

Photographer and journalist, vibrant color work
Born
March 2nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 65 years old

An Austrian-American photographer and journalist, renowned for pioneering the use of color photography in artistic expression. Initially gained recognition for war photography during World War II, capturing the realities of conflict. Emigrated to the United States in 1946, where he worked for Life magazine and contributed to the visual storytelling of the post-war era. Created iconic works that demonstrated the interplay of light and color, significantly influencing future generations of photographers. Haas's work is included in collections at major museums, and he played a crucial role in establishing color photography as a legitimate and expressive medium.

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Ismail al-Faruqi

Philosopher and academic on Islam
Born
January 1st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 65 years old

A Palestinian-American philosopher and academic contributed significantly to Islamic philosophy and cultural studies. Focused on the synthesis of Islamic thought and modernity. Served as a professor at Temple University, where influential academic programs on Islamic studies were developed. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and emphasized the importance of understanding diverse perspectives within the Islamic tradition.

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