What Happened This Year 1996

People Who Died in 1996

Erik Wickberg

Swedish General of The Salvation Army
Born
July 6th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 92 years old

Served as the 9th General of The Salvation Army from 1963 to 1969. Played a significant role in the organization’s international leadership, promoting its mission of salvation and social service. Oversaw various humanitarian initiatives and expanded the Army’s outreach programs during tenure. Advocated for community support and social action aligned with the Church's values.

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Zora Arkus-Duntov

Engineer, Corvette's 'Father'
Born
December 25th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Belgium in 1909, became an influential engineer in the automotive industry. Migrated to the United States and worked for General Motors. Played a crucial role in the development of the Chevrolet Corvette, promoting performance enhancements that transformed the car into a celebrated American sports car. Contributed to the design and engineering of multiple Corvette models, particularly the Sting Ray, which gained acclaim for its innovative features and advanced technology. Advocated for high-performance vehicles throughout his career and was instrumental in establishing the Corvette's legacy in American automotive culture.

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George W. Jenkins

American businessman, founded Publix
Born
September 29th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 89 years old

A businessman founded a supermarket chain that transformed grocery retail in the southeastern United States. Established Publix Super Markets in 1930, starting with a single store in Winter Haven, Florida. Oversaw the expansion of Publix into one of the largest employee-owned supermarket chains in the nation. Emphasized customer service and quality, leading the company to a strong reputation in the grocery industry.

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Vernon Elliott

English bassoon player and composer
Born
July 27th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 84 years old

An English bassoon player, composer, and conductor contributed significantly to the classical music scene. Elliott's career included performances with prominent orchestras and participation in numerous recordings. Composed works for various ensembles, showcasing the bassoon's capabilities. Worked extensively in the realm of music education, influencing the next generation of musicians. Served as a teacher and mentor, sharing expertise in bassoon playing and music theory.

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Gertrude Blanch

Mathematician and researcher in topology
Born
February 2nd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 99 years old

Born in Russia, a mathematician contributed to the field of topology and functional analysis. Published significant research papers and played a vital role in mathematics education. Served as a professor at several institutions including New York University. Also involved in initiatives for women in mathematics.

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Félix González-Torres

Cuban-American sculptor and artist
Born
November 26th, 1957 67 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 39 years old

A prominent sculptor and installation artist, contributed to the contemporary art scene in the late 20th century. Worked primarily with minimalism and concept, creating works that invited viewer interaction and engagement. Utilized everyday materials and explored themes of love, loss, and AIDS awareness. The installation 'Untitled' (Placebo) became one of the most recognized pieces, representing a candy display that touched on mortality and memory.

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Philip Lucock

Australian politician and minister
Born
January 16th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 80 years old

Born in England in 1916, a significant figure in Australian politics, served as a minister in various capacities. Played a key role in the Australian Labor Party and was elected to the House of Representatives. Contributed to legislative reforms and public policy discussions during a dynamic period in Australia's political landscape. His tenure witnessed significant changes in the social and economic fabric of the country.

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David Tudor

Pianist and composer of avant-garde works
Born
January 20th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in the field of experimental music, contributed significantly to the development of electronic music and performance art. Involvement with John Cage's works played a major role in shaping avant-garde music of the 20th century. Engaged in collaborative projects with notable composers and artists, including Merce Cunningham and prepared piano compositions. Worked extensively with live electronics, pushing boundaries of sound and performance.

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Donald T. Campbell

Social scientist and methodologist
Born
November 20th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 80 years old

A significant figure in social science, contributed to the fields of sociology and psychology. Developed the concept of 'social validity' and made significant advancements in research methodology. Promoted the understanding of experimental design, emphasizing the importance of context in psychological research. Authored various influential works, including 'Methodology of Research in Psychology'. Served as a professor at multiple institutions, including the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Chicago.

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