What Happened This Year 1996

People Who Died in 1996

Les Baxter

Pianist and composer of film music
Born
March 14th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1996 29 years ago — 73 years old

An American pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the genre of film music. Gained recognition for the 1950s soundtrack of the film 'The World of Suzie Wong'. Also worked extensively in the 1960s and 1970s on projects that fused orchestral arrangements with popular music styles. Provided musical arrangements for various television shows and stage productions, showcasing a versatile approach to composition. Remembered for his innovative blending of pop and classical music elements.

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Moshoeshoe II of Lesotho

King of Lesotho and national leader
Born
May 2nd, 1938 86 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1996 29 years ago — 57 years old

Ascended to the throne of Lesotho in 1966. Played a significant role in Lesotho's politics, especially during the 1990s. Worked towards modernizing the kingdom and maintaining its sovereignty. Encountered challenges during a military coup in 1994, which affected the monarchy's stability. Passed away in 1996 under uncertain circumstances, leading to a complex legacy in Lesotho's history.

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Kaye Webb

English journalist and publisher
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1996 29 years ago — 82 years old

A journalist and publisher focused on children's literature, contributed significantly to the field through editorial work. Served as the editor of Puffin Books, where publishing strategies and children's books were developed. Established the Kaye Webb Prize to promote children's literature. Authored several works aimed at young readers.

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Barbara Jordan

American politician and lawyer
Born
February 21st, 1936 89 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1996 29 years ago — 59 years old

A lawyer and politician served in the U.S. House of Representatives from Texas from 1973 to 1979. Played a key role in the impeachment process of President Nixon during the Watergate scandal. An advocate for civil rights and social justice, Jordan was a prominent figure in the Democratic Party. Delivered the keynote address at the Democratic National Convention in 1976, the first African American woman to do so. After leaving Congress, she became a professor at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas.

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N. T. Rama Rao

Indian actor and politician, Chief Minister
Born
May 28th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1996 29 years ago — 72 years old

An influential figure in Indian cinema and politics, this individual served as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, holding office from 1983 to 1989. As an actor, directed and played major roles in Telugu films, establishing a strong fan base. Contributed to the growth of Telugu cinema, producing over 300 films through various production companies. Transitioned into politics by founding a political party and significantly influenced regional governance and policies.

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Gerry Mulligan

Saxophonist and composer, Bop style
Born
April 6th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1996 29 years ago — 68 years old

An influential American saxophonist and composer, recognized for contributions to jazz music, particularly in the Bop style. Mulligan played baritone saxophone and was a pivotal figure in the development of Cool Jazz. He co-founded the popular quartet that featured pianist Dave Brubeck, with the ensemble gaining acclaim for its innovative sound. Mulligan's arrangements shaped the genre, showcasing both improvisational skill and compositional mastery. He collaborated with numerous prominent jazz musicians and was instrumental in introducing new techniques and ideas to the jazz community. In addition to performing, Mulligan composed many pieces that have become standards in the jazz repertoire before his passing in 1996.

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Israel Eldad

Polish-Israeli philosopher and author
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1996 29 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent philosopher and author, contributed significantly to the discussion of Jewish identity and nationalism. Active in the Irgun organization, which operated in pre-state Israel, engaged in writing and lecturing about Jewish thought and historical perspectives. Held a position as a professor of philosophy at various institutions. Works encompassed themes of Jewish philosophy and political thought, influencing various schools of thought.

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Jonathan Larson

Playwright and composer of Rent
Born
February 4th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1996 29 years ago — 35 years old

A prominent American playwright and composer, gained recognition for the groundbreaking musical Rent. Rent, which explored themes of love, loss, and the struggles of marginalized communities, premiered Off-Broadway in 1996. Larson received the Tony Award for Best Musical posthumously, as well as the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. The musical became a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its innovative approach to storytelling and representation of the LGBTQ+ community. Larson's life was tragically cut short just before the show's premiere, adding a poignant note to the legacy of his work.

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Frank Howard

American football player and coach
Born
August 8th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1996 29 years ago — 59 years old

Played as an offensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL) for the Washington Redskins. Coached college football teams including the University of Southern California and the University of California, Los Angeles. Achieved multiple bowl appearances and developed several players who went on to successful professional careers.

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