What Happened This Year 1996

People Who Died in 1996

Erma Bombeck

American journalist and humorist
Born
February 21st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1996 28 years ago — 69 years old

Journalist and humorist gained recognition through witty and relatable writing about domestic life and motherhood. Started a career in journalism, contributing to local newspapers. Began writing a column titled 'At Wit’s End,' which reached millions of readers across the United States. Authored several best-selling books, including 'The Grass Is Always Greener Over the Septic Tank' and 'If Life Is a Bowl of Cherries, What Am I Doing in the Pits?' Her work highlighted the humorous aspects of suburban family life. Involved in various social causes and advocated for women's rights, showcasing the struggles and joys of homemaking.

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P. L. Travers

Author of 'Mary Poppins' series
Born
August 9th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1996 28 years ago — 96 years old

An Australian-English author and actress, created the character Mary Poppins, a magical nanny who appears in a series of children's books. The first book, 'Mary Poppins', was published in 1934 and became widely popular, leading to several sequels. Travers also collaborated with Walt Disney on the adaptation of her work into the beloved 1964 film, which introduced the character to a new generation. Throughout her life, Travers had a complex relationship with the film adaptation and expressed discontent with some artistic choices made by Disney.

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Jean Victor Allard

Canadian general and military leader
Born
June 12th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1996 28 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1913, a general in the Canadian Army, Allard served with distinction during World War II. He played a vital role in the liberation of the Netherlands and commanded the 1st Canadian Corps. Following the war, Allard contributed to NATO operations and held various leadership positions within the Canadian military. His strategic abilities and leadership were recognized over decades of service.

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Saul Bass

Graphic designer and film title designer
Born
May 8th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1996 28 years ago — 75 years old

A graphic designer and filmmaker, contributed significantly to modern visual culture through iconic film title sequences and corporate logo designs. Created memorable title sequences for films such as 'Psycho,' 'Vertigo,' and 'Goodfellas.' Collaborated with notable directors and developed a distinct visual language that transformed movie marketing. Established a design firm that worked with major corporations to create influential logos, including the AT&T bell logo and the United Airlines tulip logo.

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William Colby

Intelligence officer, CIA Director
Born
January 4th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1996 28 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1920, served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Joined the Office of Strategic Services, the predecessor to the CIA, and participated in intelligence operations. Became a key figure in the CIA during the Cold War. Appointed as the 10th Director of Central Intelligence in 1973, leading the agency during a turbulent period marked by the Watergate scandal. Oversaw controversial programs, such as the Phoenix Program in Vietnam. Resigned in 1975 following the Church Committee investigations into CIA activities.

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Lester Sumrall

American minister, founded LeSEA
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1996 28 years ago — 83 years old

An American minister established the LeSEA (Lester Sumrall Evangelistic Association) in 1957, focusing on worldwide missionary activities and broadcasting. This organization expanded to include a television network that spread Christian teachings. Sumrall wrote numerous books on faith and spirituality, contributing to Christian literature. He also founded several churches, promoting evangelism and humanitarian efforts in different regions.

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Jack Weston

American actor in 'The Hospital'
Born
August 21st, 1924 100 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1996 28 years ago — 71 years old

An American actor active from the 1950s through the early 2000s. Contributed to film and television with a notable presence in stage performances. Featured prominently in 'The Hospital' alongside George C. Scott. Appeared in television shows including 'The Golden Girls' and 'The Twilight Zone'. Engaged in various roles that showcased comedic and dramatic talents.

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Alex Kellner

American baseball player and pitcher
Born
August 26th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1996 28 years ago — 71 years old

A professional baseball player, primarily served as a pitcher during the 1940s and 1950s. Played for the Philadelphia Athletics and the Kansas City Athletics in Major League Baseball. Participated in the league for parts of ten seasons, establishing a reputation as a reliable left-handed pitcher. Contributed to the team's efforts in the American League.

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Keith Daniel Williams

Convicted rapist and triple murderer
Born
June 6th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1996 28 years ago — 48 years old

Grew up in the United States, displayed troubling behaviors from a young age that escalated into severe criminal activities. Convicted of three murders in the 1980s, leading to life sentences without the possibility of parole. Infamous for committing heinous acts that resulted in public outrage and significant media attention. The cases developed a narrative around criminal psychology and the failures of the legal system.

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