What Happened This Year 1996

People Who Died in 1996

Ferdinand Leitner

Conductor and composer of classical music
Born
March 4th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Germany in 1912, a conductor and composer specialized in classical music. Led prominent orchestras throughout Europe, including the Munich Philharmonic and the Vienna State Opera. Involved in numerous recordings, contributing to the classical music repertoire. His work included acclaimed interpretations of operas and orchestral works, showcasing a commitment to both contemporary and classical pieces.

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Tan Chee Khoon

Malaysian physician and politician
Born
March 4th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent physician and politician in Malaysia, significant contributions were made in both fields during an extensive career. Medical education was emphasized, and active engagement in politics led to a focus on public health policy and community health initiatives. As an influential member of the Malaysian political landscape, efforts included advocating for healthcare reforms and improvements in the medical system.

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Laura LaPlante

Silent Film Actress in 'The Cat and the Fiddle'
Born
November 1st, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1996 29 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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Károly Kárpáti

Hungarian Olympic wrestler
Born
July 2nd, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 90 years old

Achieved fame as a wrestler, competing in Greco-Roman style. Participated in the 1936 Summer Olympics held in Berlin, securing a gold medal in the lightweight category. Additionally, earned numerous national titles throughout the competitive career, establishing a strong reputation in Hungarian wrestling. Continued to contribute to the sport after retirement, working as a coach.

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Jed Johnson

American interior designer and director
Born
December 30th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1948, an influential figure in the field of interior design, notable for the modern aesthetic applied to residential and commercial spaces. Established a prominent career as a designer for high-profile clients and became a pivotal leader at various design firms. Directed acclaimed television programs focused on design and architecture, enhancing public interest in these fields. His work encapsulated a blend of creativity and functionality, contributing to the rise of contemporary design trends during his career.

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Virginia Christine

American actress of film and television
Born
March 5th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1920, this American actress became prominent during the mid-20th century. She appeared in numerous films and television shows, gaining recognition for her roles in the classic television series 'The Twilight Zone' and the popular sitcom 'Folgers Coffee' commercials. Her acting career spanned several decades, contributing to the entertainment industry through both film and advertising.

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Stavros Niarchos

Greek shipping magnate and investor
Born
July 3rd, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent Greek shipping magnate, made significant contributions to the shipping industry, particularly in the post-World War II era. Owned and operated a large fleet of tankers and cargo ships, establishing one of the largest shipping companies in the world. Developed a notable reputation not only for shipping but also for investments in various industries including real estate and art. His fortune allowed for significant influence in both business and society, particularly in Greece.

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Margret Rey

Author and illustrator of children's books
Born
May 16th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Germany, this author and illustrator created beloved children's literature alongside her husband, H.A. Rey. The pair co-authored the iconic 'Curious George' series, which debuted in 1941 and has grown to include numerous books and adaptations in various media. After fleeing Europe during World War II, they settled in the United States, where their works gained immense popularity. The stories' gentle humor and engaging characters captured the imaginations of generations of children. The legacy continues through adaptations into television and film, ensuring the characters remain familiar to new audiences.

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Pat McGeown

Irish republican activist and politician
Born
September 3rd, 1956 68 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 40 years old

Born in 1956, significant involvement in the Irish republican movement occurred. McGeown participated in the 1981 hunger strike, which aimed to challenge the treatment of political prisoners in Northern Ireland. As a member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army, contributed to shaping political discourse surrounding Irish unity. Following the hunger strike, engagement with political processes increased, seeking to forge pathways toward peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. Active in various community initiatives aimed at promoting republican principles.

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