What Happened This Year 1996

People Who Died in 1996

Peggy Herbison

Scottish politician and MP
Born
1907 119 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1996 29 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a Member of Parliament in the United Kingdom representing the Lanark constituency. Held various positions within the Labour Party, including Minister of State for Social Security. Advocated for social welfare programs and worked on policies related to housing and women's rights during the 1960s and 1970s. Served as a prominent voice for social justice and equality in legislative discussions.

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Lew Ayres

American actor in All Quiet on the Western Front
Born
December 28th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1996 29 years ago — 88 years old

An actor gained recognition for performance in the film All Quiet on the Western Front (1930). Worked in both film and television, with a career spanning several decades. Appeared in notable films including The Thin Man and the melodrama Johnny Belinda, earning an Academy Award nomination. In television, featured in the series Dr. Kildare. Later in career, became associated with advocacy for mental health awareness.

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Wesley Addy

American actor in television and film
Born
August 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old

An American actor, prominent during the mid-20th century, worked extensively in television and film. Appeared in leading roles on series such as 'The Edge of Night' and 'The Defenders'. Had a successful career in Broadway, particularly celebrated for performances in productions like 'A Moon for the Misbegotten'. Also featured in movies including 'The Young Lovers' and 'The Way We Were'.

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Walter Hyatt

American singer-songwriter best known for 'Joyful Sound'
Born
October 25th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 47 years old

Born in 1949, this American singer-songwriter gained prominence in the 1990s, contributing to the roots rock and Americana music scenes. With a distinct blend of folk, country, and blues influences, the artist crafted a unique sound. His most celebrated work includes the album 'Joyful Sound', which showcased his lyrical storytelling and melodic guitar playing. A founding member of the influential group The Uncle Tupelo Band, he collaborated with various musicians, contributing to a rich musical legacy. This artist's songwriting resonated with many, leaving a lasting imprint on the genre.

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Karoly Honfi

Hungarian chess player and coach
Born
October 25th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent chess player associated with Hungary, contributed significantly to the sport through competitive play and coaching. Competed in numerous national and international tournaments throughout the 20th century. Played in various Chess Olympiads, representing Hungary. Influenced the next generation of chess players through training and mentorship.

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Laura LaPlante

Silent Film Actress in 'The Cat and the Fiddle'
Born
November 1st, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 92 years old

An American silent film actress gained recognition through the 1920s and early 1930s. LaPlante starred in numerous silent films and transitioned to talkies, showcasing her talent in both mediums. She achieved success with leads in major productions, particularly in the film 'The Cat and the Fiddle', where her performance resonated with audiences. LaPlante's career included working with prominent directors and alongside notable actors of the time, solidifying her position in film history until her retirement in the mid-1930s.

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Tommy Mitchell

English cricketer with notable Test career
Born
September 4th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 94 years old

An English cricketer played as a right-handed batsman and occasional leg-spin bowler. Mitchell had a substantial first-class career spanning from 1920 to 1934. Debuted for the England national team in 1926, participating in the Test series against South Africa and Australia. Played primarily for Kent County Cricket Club, establishing a reputation for resilience and skill at the crease. Contributed significantly to Kent's success during the 1920s, culminating in several County Championship titles.

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Gyula Kállai

Hungarian communist leader and official
Born
June 1st, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in Hungarian communism, played a significant role in political leadership during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Served as the Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the People's Republic of Hungary from 1965 to 1967. Focused on economic reforms and modernization within the framework of the socialist system. Engaged in international relations and contributed to the consolidation of communist governance in Hungary during a transformative period in Eastern Europe.

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Karl Rappan

Austrian football coach and player
Born
September 26th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 91 years old

Convened the first football clubs in Austria and played for SC Wiener Neustadt. Rappan transitioned into coaching, where he developed a tactical system known as the 'Verteidigungssystem' or 'defense system' which revolutionized defensive play in football. He coached several teams, including the Austrian national team and FC Lausanne. His contributions to football tactics had a lasting influence in the sport.

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