What Happened This Year 1996

People Who Died in 1996

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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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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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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Abdullah al-Qasemi

Saudi writer and intellectual
Born
1907 118 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 89 years old

A writer and intellectual from Saudi Arabia, contributed to literature and criticism focusing on religion and society. Engaged in debates surrounding atheism and modernity within an Islamic context. Produced various works that challenged traditional views and espoused secularism, leading to scrutiny and controversy. Emphasized rational thought and questioned the status quo through writings that highlighted issues faced in contemporary Muslim societies.

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Walter M. Miller Jr.

American soldier and author of A Canticle for Leibowitz
Born
January 23rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 72 years old

Served as a bomber pilot in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. After the war, began a career in writing, contributing to various magazines and publishing short stories. Published the science fiction novel A Canticle for Leibowitz in 1960, which won the Hugo Award. The novel explored themes of religious faith and the cyclical nature of history in a post-apocalyptic setting. Worked on several other projects and maintained involvement in literary circles until death in 1996.

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Roger Crozier

Ice hockey player and Hart Trophy winner
Born
March 16th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1996 29 years ago — 53 years old

Crozier played as a goaltender in the National Hockey League. His professional career spanned from 1959 to 1974. He gained recognition for his performances with the Detroit Red Wings and Buffalo Sabres. Crozier achieved notable success during the 1964-65 NHL season, earning the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league's Most Valuable Player, the first goaltender to win the award since its inception. He was also awarded the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's Rookie of the Year in 1964. Crozier represented Team Canada in international competitions, contributing to the team's efforts in various tournaments.

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