What Happened This Year 1996
People Who Died in 1996
Chas Chandler
Born in 1938, played bass for the rock band The Animals, contributing to the band's success in the 1960s. The group achieved significant popularity with hits such as 'House of the Rising Sun.' After leaving the band, entered the production field and managed notable acts, including Jimi Hendrix, helping to shape Hendrix's early career and sound. Chandler's influence extended beyond performance into the music production realm, where he played a crucial role in developing some iconic records during the late 1960s.
Continue ReadingJean Muir
Acclaimed for performances in theater, film, and television, this actress contributed significantly to the arts. She gained recognition for her role in the film 'The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit' and appeared in various television productions, showcasing her talent across different media. In addition to performance, she served as an educator, influencing the next generation of actors through teaching and mentorship. Her ability to portray complex characters highlighted her skill and dedication to the craft.
Continue ReadingMax Winter
A businessman and sports executive in the United States, played a significant role in the growth of professional sports franchises. As the owner and president of the Minnesota Vikings, contributed to the establishment of the team in the NFL. Was influential in the modernization of the organization and helped secure the team's place in the league. Worked to enhance the presence of professional football in Minnesota, developing a strong fan base and promoting sports entertainment in the region.
Continue ReadingRoger Tory Peterson
An influential ornithologist and author, contributed significantly to the study and documentation of birds. Developed the field guide format which enhanced identification of birds and promoted birdwatching as a hobby. Authored 'A Field Guide to the Birds,' which became a seminal work in ornithology, setting a standard for wildlife guides. Established the Peterson Field Guides series, which expanded into various wildlife disciplines, affecting generations of naturalists and enthusiasts.
Continue ReadingRic Nordman
Served as a captain in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. After the war, entered politics and represented a constituency as a member of the legislative assembly. Contributed to various legislative initiatives. Engaged in local community affairs post-political career, influencing regional development.
Continue ReadingJason Thirsk
A bass player contributed to the punk rock band Pennywise, which formed in 1988 in Hermosa Beach, California. Thirsk joined the band shortly after its inception, becoming an integral member. The group's self-titled album released in 1991 propelled them into the punk rock scene. The band's sound blended melodic elements with aggressive punk, leading to a dedicated following. Thirsk's songwriting skills added depth to the band's music. He participated in multiple studio albums and tours until his passing in 1996. His contributions to the punk genre, especially through his work with Pennywise, are notable within the music community.
Continue ReadingMarcel-Paul Schützenberger
A mathematician and academic who contributed to combinatorics and formal language theory. Developed the concept of rational series and introduced the Schützenberger group. His research in algebraic structures significantly influenced theoretical computer science. Held academic positions in various institutions and actively published scholarly articles throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingClaudette Colbert
Born in 1903, an acclaimed actress achieved significant success in the film industry during the 1930s and 1940s. Starred in 'It Happened One Night', which won an Academy Award for Best Picture. Frequently collaborated with prominent directors and co-stars in various romantic comedies, showcasing versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles. Maintained a successful career on stage and screen, transitioning seamlessly between theater and film. Retired from the industry, leaving a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingTadeusz Reichstein
Born in Poland, later became a Swiss citizen. Conducted significant research in chemistry, particularly steroid hormones. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1950 for contributions to steroid chemistry. Served as a professor at the University of Zurich, influencing future generations of chemists through academic leadership and research. Contributed to improving the understanding of hormonal functions in the human body.
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