What Happened This Year 1996

People Who Died in 1996

Shūsaku Endō

Japanese author of 'Silence'
Born
March 27th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1996 28 years ago — 73 years old

Born in Japan in 1923, a prominent author explored themes of faith, alienation, and culture in writings. The literary career spanned several decades, beginning after World War II. Gained recognition for the novel 'Silence,' which details the struggle of a Jesuit missionary in Japan. This work received critical acclaim and explored complex interactions between Christianity and Japanese society. Other notable works include 'The Samurai,' which examines the ethical dilemmas faced by an individual caught between two cultures, and 'The Sea and Poison,' a novel about medical ethics during wartime. His contributions to literature provided insights into the conflict between personal faith and societal pressures, affirming the unique perspectives of post-war Japanese authors.

Continue Reading

Andrey Lukanov

Bulgarian politician and Prime Minister
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1996 28 years ago — 58 years old

Served as the 40th Prime Minister of Bulgaria from 1990 to 1991 during a critical period of transition following the end of communism. Lukanov's tenure focused on economic reform and democratic changes within the country. He was a significant figure in the Bulgarian Socialist Party and played a role in the political landscape during the early 1990s. After his term as Prime Minister, engaged in various political and business activities. Passed away in 1996.

Continue Reading

Robert Bourassa

Lawyer and Premier of Quebec
Born
July 14th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1996 28 years ago — 63 years old

Served as the 22nd Premier of Quebec, notably holding office during two separate terms from 1970 to 1976 and from 1985 to 1994. Faced significant political challenges including issues related to sovereignty and economic development. Advanced major infrastructure projects and championed the modernization of the Quebec economy. Promoted the welfare of Quebecers and worked to strengthen the province's autonomy within Canada.

Continue Reading

Seymour Cray

Computer Scientist, Founder of CRAY
Born
September 28th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1996 28 years ago — 71 years old

A pivotal figure in supercomputing, significant contributions included the design of cutting-edge supercomputers. Founded Cray Research, which produced the Cray-1, the world's first successful supercomputer. Focused on achieving high performance through innovative architecture and technology. Played a crucial role in advancing computational capabilities for various scientific applications.

Continue Reading

Lou Lichtveld

Author and politician from Suriname
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
October 7th, 1996 28 years ago — 93 years old

A Surinamese-Dutch author, playwright, and politician, contributed to the literary and political landscape of Suriname and the Netherlands. His works often reflected social themes and cultural identity. In addition to writing, engaged in politics, advocating for his beliefs and the interests of his community. Active in promoting literature and fostering a connection between Surinamese and Dutch cultures, his influence extended beyond literature into public discourse.

Continue Reading

Walter Kerr

American author and theater critic
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1996 28 years ago — 83 years old

An author and theater critic, contributed significantly to American literature and theater. Wrote extensively for the New York Times and other publications. Authored books on drama and criticism, including 'How Not to Write a Play' and 'The Theater in Spite of Itself'. Served as a professor at the University of Pennsylvania, influencing generations of writers and critics. Awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1971 for 'The Last Emporer of China', the work highlighted in his career.

Continue Reading

Eleanor Cameron

Children's author and literary critic
Born
March 23rd, 1912 112 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1996 28 years ago — 84 years old

A Canadian-American author focused on children's literature, became renowned for the writing of fantasy and science fiction for young audiences. First published in the late 1940s, title 'The Green and Golden Age' gained significant recognition. Contributed to literary criticism, reviewing and analyzing children's books, which helped shape the understanding of children's literature. Involved in various educational initiatives aimed at promoting reading among children and was influential in the literary community.

Continue Reading

Renato Russo

Brazilian singer-songwriter with Legião Urbana
Born
March 27th, 1960 64 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1996 28 years ago — 36 years old

Gained prominence as a singer-songwriter and guitarist in Brazil. Founded the rock band Legião Urbana in 1982, which became a significant force in Brazilian rock music during the 1980s and 1990s. The band's lyrics often addressed themes of love, politics, and social issues, resonating with a wide audience. The group released several successful albums, including "Dois", "Que País É Este", and "O Descobrimento do Brasil", contributing to the Brazilian cultural landscape. Additionally, Russo pursued a solo career and collaborated with various artists. He passed away in 1996, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Brazilian music.

Continue Reading

Roger Lapébie

French professional cyclist, Tour de France winner
Born
January 16th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1996 28 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1911, this professional cyclist gained prominence in the early 20th century. A significant achievement includes winning the Tour de France in 1937, becoming the first cyclist to win while riding for the French team. He also competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, contributing to the sport's history during a transformative era in cycling. Throughout the career, notable performances included victories in various one-day races and the French national championships. The cyclist's contributions helped shape the competitive landscape of professional cycling in France and beyond.

Continue Reading