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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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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William Clarke

Harmonica player and blues musician
Born
March 29th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1951, an American harmonica player emerged in the blues genre featuring a distinctive style. Collaborated with various artists and released significant albums, contributing to the harmonica's popularity in blues music. His performances showcased technical skill and emotive playing. Clarke's work included extensive touring and appearances at renowned festivals, highlighting his role in the blues scene until his passing in 1996.

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Herbert Butros Khaury

Singer-songwriter and ukulele player
Born
April 12th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1932, a distinctive singer and ukulele player gained prominence in the 1960s with a unique style blending folk, pop, and traditional music. Became widely recognized for contributions to the folk music revival in the United States, often performing at major music festivals and venues. Released several albums throughout his career, showcasing original compositions and popular covers, including interpretations of songs by other artists. Notable for captivating performances that utilized the ukulele creatively, contributing to a resurgence of interest in the instrument. Continued to perform and record music until the later years of life, influencing aspiring musicians with his eclectic sound and artistic vision.

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Larry Gene Bell

American criminal
Born
October 30th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 47 years old

Involved in a series of murders in South Carolina during the 1980s. Convicted of kidnapping and killing 15-year-old Shandra White in 1985. Linked to the murder of 9-year-old Kimberly French, which also occurred in the same year. Sentenced to death in 1988 and executed by lethal injection in 1996.

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Ai Qing

Chinese poet and author
Born
March 27th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1910, this individual became a prominent Chinese poet and author, contributing significantly to modern Chinese literature. The life experiences, including imprisonment and exile due to political reasons, deeply influenced the themes in the poetry and prose. Works often reflected personal emotions and societal issues, blending traditional Chinese literary forms with modernist influences. The individual returned to the literary scene after the Cultural Revolution, continuing to publish collections that resonated with a wide audience.

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W. G. G. Duncan Smith

English captain and pilot
Born
May 28th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a captain in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Piloted several notable missions, including operations in the North African campaign. Post-war, contributed to civil aviation efforts, playing a key role in promoting air safety and advancements in navigation technology. Also engaged in maritime activities, further establishing expertise in aviation and seafaring.

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