What Happened This Year 1986

People Who Died in 1986

Tommy Douglas

Canadian politician and Premier of Saskatchewan
Born
October 20th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1986 39 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Scotland, a minister emerged as a key figure in Canadian politics. Served as the 7th Premier of Saskatchewan from 1944 to 1961. Pioneered a public healthcare system, leading to the establishment of Medicare in Canada. His leadership focused on social democratic policies and the expansion of public services. After leaving provincial politics, continued to influence national politics and policies through the federal New Democratic Party.

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Rukmini Devi Arundale

Bharatnatyam dancer and educator
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1986 39 years ago — 82 years old

Pioneered the revival of Bharatnatyam, an ancient Indian classical dance form. Established the Kalakshetra Foundation in 1936, promoting traditional art and culture. Contributed to the development of a distinct grammar for Bharatnatyam and its formal presentation. Advocated for the inclusion of Indian arts in educational curricula.

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Jacques Plante

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
January 17th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1986 39 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1929, this ice hockey player played primarily as a goaltender. Achieved prominence in the National Hockey League (NHL) during the 1950s and 1960s. Most recognized for contributions to the Montreal Canadiens, where he won multiple championships. Transitioned into coaching and sportscasting later in career, sharing expertise and experience with audiences. His innovative goaltending techniques, including the use of the mask, changed the approach to the position for future generations.

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Richard Manuel

Canadian singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
April 3rd, 1943 81 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1986 39 years ago — 42 years old

A prominent figure in music, achieved fame as a member of the group The Band. Contributed significantly to the group's sound with piano and vocal performances. Involved in the creation of influential albums including 'Music from Big Pink' and 'The Last Waltz.' Worked with notable artists such as Bob Dylan and Eric Clapton, enhancing collaborative musical projects. His songwriting included poignant tracks that contributed to the folk rock genre.

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Elizabeth Smart

Canadian poet and author of 'By Grand Central Station I Sat Down and Wept'
Born
December 27th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1986 39 years ago — 72 years old

A Canadian poet and author, she gained recognition for her lyrical and often autobiographical writing. Her most significant work, 'By Grand Central Station I Sat Down and Wept', published in 1945, has been praised for its emotional depth and exploration of themes such as love and despair. Beyond poetry, contributions included criticism and essays that illuminated her literary perspective. She was also involved in various literary circles, influencing other writers and artists throughout her life. Smart's work often drew upon personal experiences, capturing the complexities of human emotions and relationships.

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Georgia O'Keeffe

American painter of modern art
Born
November 15th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1986 39 years ago — 98 years old

An influential American painter focused on modernist art. O'Keeffe painted large-scale flowers, animal skulls, and landscapes, establishing a unique style that emphasized color and form. Works exhibit a strong connection to the American Southwest, especially New Mexico, which served as inspiration for many creations. O'Keeffe's significant contributions to art include abstract forms and innovative approaches to perspective. Her work has been widely exhibited and remains a staple in American art collections.

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Jacob K. Javits

American politician and attorney general
Born
May 18th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1986 39 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a U.S. Congressman and U.S. Senator from New York. During tenure in the Senate, advocated for labor reforms and civil rights. Played a significant role in the establishment of the New York City Fiscal Control Board. Served as the 58th Attorney General of New York, implementing various legal reforms. Worked on advancing issues related to health care and environmental protection.

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Ray Milland

Actor and director, All About Eve
Born
January 3rd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1986 39 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Wales, a career in film began in the 1920s in silent films. Transitioned to sound and gained recognition in the 1940s. Starred in a variety of genres, including drama and comedy. Achieved critical acclaim for performance in 'The Lost Weekend', earning an Academy Award for Best Actor. Became a regular face in Hollywood, directing several films and continuing to act into the 1970s. Also appeared on television, showcasing versatility across different platforms.

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Sonny Terry

Harmonica player and blues singer
Born
October 24th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1986 39 years ago — 74 years old

An influential figure in the blues genre, notable for innovative harmonica playing and vocal style. Collaborated extensively with guitarist Brownie McGhee, creating a significant body of work that showcased the depth of blues music. Recorded numerous albums, gaining recognition for performances that highlighted traditional Southern blues. Contributed to the folk revival of the 1960s through appearances at festivals and in clubs, influencing a generation of musicians. Also made contributions to film and television by performing in various productions.

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