What Happened This Year 1996

Historical Events from This Year 1996 (View all 104)

Accidents & Tragedies

Antonov An-32 Crash in Kinshasa Market

January 8th, 1996 29 years ago

A Antonov An-32 cargo aircraft crashed into a crowded market in Kinshasa, Zaire, resulting in the death of up to 223 people on the ground, as well as two out of six crew members. The incident unfolded amid challenging flight conditions. Eyewitnesses reported the aircraft losing altitude before it went down, raising concerns about air safety in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Kizlyar Hostage Crisis by Chechen Separatists

January 9th, 1996 29 years ago

Chechen separatists launched a raid on a helicopter airfield and a civilian hospital in Kizlyar, Dagestan. This attack escalated into a massive hostage crisis, involving thousands of civilians caught in the violence. The operation highlighted the reach of Chechen forces into Russian territory, showcasing the ongoing conflict between Russian federal forces and Chechen separatists seeking independence.

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Space Exploration

Endeavour Launches on STS-72 Mission

January 11th, 1996 29 years ago

STS-72 marked the 10th flight of Space Shuttle Endeavour, launching from Kennedy Space Center. The mission included retrieving and deploying satellites and conducting significant scientific experiments. Endeavour lifted off on a clear day, showcasing NASA's continuous commitment to space exploration. A notable part of this mission was the retrieval of the Spartan satellite, which provided valuable data for researchers.

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Politics & Government

Czech Republic Requests EU Membership

January 17th, 1996 29 years ago

The Czech Republic formally submitted its application to join the European Union, marking a significant step in its post-communist transition. This move was part of a broader effort by Central and Eastern European countries to integrate into European structures following the end of the Cold War. The application was made in Brussels to the then-15 EU member states, reflecting the Czech Republic's commitment to political and economic reforms and its desire to secure a stable future within Europe.

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Accidents & Tragedies

North Cape oil spill from tugboat Scandia

January 19th, 1996 29 years ago

An engine fire on the tugboat Scandia led to a significant oil spill when it was forced ashore at Moonstone Beach, South Kingstown, Rhode Island. The incident resulted in the release of over 800,000 gallons of oil into the surrounding waters, severely impacting marine life and the local ecosystem. Emergency responders quickly mobilized to contain the spill, but the environmental damage would take years to assess and rehabilitate fully. The spill raised concerns over maritime safety and environmental protection regulations.

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Crime & Law

Billy Bailey executed via hanging in Virginia

January 25th, 1996 29 years ago

Billy Bailey was executed by hanging in Virginia, marking the end of the practice of hanging as a method of execution in the United States. He was convicted of murder in 1990 and spent over six years on death row. Bailey's execution, which took place at the Greensville Correctional Center, was sanctioned by the state of Virginia, the last state to carry out a hanging. The execution followed a lengthy appeals process, and Bailey maintained his innocence until the end.

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Born in 1996 (View all 384)

Mathias Jensen

Danish footballer, Brentford midfielder
Born
January 1st, 1996 29 years ago

A professional footballer began career in youth system at Odense BK. Made first-team debut in 2014. Transferred to French club Rennes in 2016, competing in Ligue 1. Joined English side Brentford in 2020, helping the team gain promotion to the Premier League for the 2021-2022 season. Represented Denmark at various youth levels and made senior debut in 2020. Participated in major tournaments including UEFA Euro 2020.

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Mahmoud Dahoud

German footballer and Borussia Dortmund midfielder
Born
January 1st, 1996 29 years ago

A professional footballer from Germany, primarily played as a midfielder. Development began at the youth level with FC Schalke 04 before moving to Borussia Mönchengladbach where top performances drew attention. Transferred to Borussia Dortmund in 2017, contributing to the team's successes in national and international competitions. International career includes representing Germany at various youth levels and the senior team.

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Andreas Pereira

Professional Brazilian footballer
Born
January 1st, 1996 29 years ago

Born in 1996, this Brazilian footballer developed skills at the Manchester United youth academy. He made his professional debut for Manchester United in 2015. Later, he played for various clubs including Valencia CF on loan and was loaned to Lazio in 2021, where he contributed to the team's midfield strength. In 2022, he transferred to Fulham FC and continued to play in the Premier League, showcasing talent in both domestic and international competitions.

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Jonah Bolden

Basketball player notable for NBA career
Born
January 2nd, 1996 29 years ago

A professional basketball player played for several teams including the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA. Initially developed skills at the Australian Institute of Sport before pursuing a college career in the United States. Had significant experience playing in Australia and Europe before joining the NBA. Also represented Australia in international competitions.

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Léo Ortiz

Brazilian footballer, defender for Red Bull Bragantino
Born
January 3rd, 1996 29 years ago

A Brazilian footballer, Ortiz has played as a defender. Made significant contributions to the success of Red Bull Bragantino in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. His defensive skills and ability to play from the back have garnered attention since joining the senior team. Details of youth career include playing for São Paulo's youth team before moving to a professional setting. Joined Red Bull Bragantino in 2020, helping the team secure a solid standing in Brazilian football.

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Florence Pugh

English actress in Midsommer and Little Women
Born
January 3rd, 1996 29 years ago

An actress contributed to film and television with notable performances. Gained prominence through roles in 'Lady Macbeth' and 'Midsommar', showcasing a commanding screen presence. Starred in 'Little Women', receiving critical acclaim for the portrayal of Amy March. Continued to achieve recognition for her work in 'Black Widow' and 'The Wonder'.

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People Who Died in 1996 (View all 360)

Howard Vernon

Swiss-French actor in horror films
Born
July 15th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1921 103 years ago — 7 years old

Born in 1914, an actor had a prolific career primarily in horror cinema. Worked with renowned directors and featured in several cult films. Notable performances include roles in 'The Last Man on Earth', 'The Horrible Dr. Hichcock', and 'The Devil's Nightmare'. His contributions to the genre left a lasting legacy in European horror films.

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Arthur Rudolph

German-American aerospace engineer
Born
November 9th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1996 29 years ago — 89 years old

An engineer who played a key role in the development of the Saturn V rocket, instrumental in the Apollo program that landed humans on the Moon. His career included significant contributions to the design and testing of rocket systems. Emigrated to the United States after World War II, contributing to NASA's early space exploration efforts and advancing aerospace technology. Later became involved in controversies regarding his past during the war.

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Arleigh Burke

Admiral and Chief of Naval Operations
Born
October 19th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1996 29 years ago — 94 years old

Served in the United States Navy, achieving the rank of Admiral. Played a significant role during World War II, commanding destroyer squadron engagements in the Pacific Theatre. Became Chief of Naval Operations from 1955 to 1961, overseeing critical advancements in naval strategy and technology. Contributed to the development of the Navy's missile programs and the overall modernization of the fleet. Held the title of a four-star Admiral, with a career marked by strategic naval leadership.

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Károly Grósz

Hungarian politician, Prime Minister
Born
August 1st, 1930 94 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1996 29 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the 51st Prime Minister of Hungary from 1987 to 1989. Played a significant role in the transition of Hungary from a one-party state to a multi-party democracy. Initiated economic reforms aimed at creating a market economy. Resigned from leadership following political pressure and changes in the political landscape as communist authority diminished.

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François Mitterrand

French politician and former president
Born
October 26th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1996 29 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent French politician served as the 21st President of France from 1981 to 1995. Played a significant role in shaping modern French politics. Launched several major reforms, including the abolition of the death penalty and the nationalization of key industries. Focused on European integration and was influential in the establishment of the Maastricht Treaty. Had a long political career spanning several decades, including leadership of the Socialist Party.

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Metin Göktepe

Turkish journalist and photographer
Born
April 10th, 1968 56 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1996 29 years ago — 27 years old

Worked as a journalist and photographer in Turkey. Focused on documenting societal issues and human rights. His work received attention for its critical view of state policies and the treatment of dissent. Göktepe's photography captured important moments in Turkish history, particularly the late 20th century. Died under controversial circumstances while covering a protest, sparking debates about freedom of the press in Turkey.

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