What Happened This Year 1996

People Who Died in 1996

Red Webb

Baseball player and manager
Born
September 25th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 72 years old

Played as an infielder in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Philadelphia Phillies. His career spanned parts of six seasons from 1942 to 1949. After his playing career, transitioned to coaching and managing at various levels, including minor leagues. Contributed to the development of players and teams during the post-playing stage of career.

Continue Reading

Gladwyn Jebb

English politician and UN Secretary-General
Born
April 25th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 96 years old

Jebb served as the first Acting Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1945 to 1946. Initially involved in British diplomacy during World War II, he played a significant role in the establishment and early functioning of the UN. Jebb's work was instrumental in organizing the UN's first General Assembly in 1946. His diplomatic career included several high-profile positions within the British Foreign Office, where he focused on international relations and post-war reconstruction efforts. Jebb continued to work in various capacities within the UN and other international organizations, contributing to global governance and cooperation.

Continue Reading

Jonathan Melvoin

American musician with The Smashing Pumpkins
Born
December 6th, 1961 63 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 35 years old

A musician contributed significantly to the alternative rock scene in the 1990s. Played keyboards with the band The Smashing Pumpkins during the recording of the album 'Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness.' Also played with various bands and contributed to a variety of music projects. Melvoin had a background that included performances in numerous live shows and collaboration with different artists, which shaped his musical journey.

Continue Reading

Patrick Cargill

English actor and producer in television
Born
June 3rd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 78 years old

An English actor and producer, contributions span stage and screen. Gained prominence in the 1960s with performances in television sitcoms. Frequently collaborated with notable figures in the entertainment industry. Later transitioned into production roles, overseeing various projects.

Continue Reading

George W. Jenkins

American businessman, founded Publix
Born
September 29th, 1907 118 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.

Continue Reading

Tommy Lawton

Footballer and coach, played for England
Born
October 6th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent footballer and coach emerged in the early 20th century. Played as a centre-forward primarily for clubs such as Burnley, Chelsea, and Notts County. Represented the England national team, earning recognition for scoring crucial goals in international matches. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, guiding various teams. Made notable contributions to the sport through both competitive play and mentorship.

Continue Reading

Leo Politi

Italian-American author and illustrator
Born
November 21st, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 88 years old

An author and illustrator specialized in children's literature and illustration. Created stories that reflected the culture and experiences of Mexican Americans in California. Gained recognition for capturing the vibrant life of Los Angeles through art and storytelling. Worked extensively with both text and illustrations, often drawing from personal experiences and heritage. Published numerous books that offered insights into the lives of children from diverse backgrounds.

Continue Reading

Max Manus

Norwegian resistance leader during WWII
Born
December 9th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a key figure in the Norwegian resistance against Nazi occupation during World War II. Operated with the Oslo-based group, the Norwegian Special Operations Group, focusing on sabotage missions targeting German war efforts. Participated in high-profile operations, including the sinking of the German transport ship MV Donau and the bombing of the German-controlled infrastructure in Norway. Coordinated efforts that contributed to the overall resistance movement, significantly disrupting enemy operations. After the war, became an author, documenting experiences in a widely read autobiography.

Continue Reading

Beverley Whitfield

Australian swimmer and Olympian
Born
June 15th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 42 years old

Competed in swimming events at the international level. Participated in the 1972 Summer Olympics held in Munich, representing Australia. Achieved multiple medals at the Australian Championships and showcased notable performances in freestyle events. Contributed to the development of swimming in Australia through competitive excellence.

Continue Reading