What Happened This Year 1996

People Who Died in 1996

Charlie Finley

Baseball team owner and promoter
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1996 29 years ago — 78 years old

An American businessman, played a significant role in Major League Baseball as the owner of the Oakland Athletics from 1960 to 1980. Instrumental in the A's success during the 1970s, the team captured three consecutive World Series titles from 1972 to 1974. Known for implementing innovative marketing strategies, introduced promotional nights and the iconic 'fan appreciation day.' Advocated for player benefits and contributed to the development of the designated hitter rule in the American League.

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Solomon Asch

Psychologist known for conformity studies
Born
1907 118 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1996 29 years ago — 89 years old

A psychologist focused on social psychology, particularly known for the experiments on conformity in the 1950s. The Asch conformity experiments demonstrated the influence of group pressure on individual judgment. This research contributed significantly to understanding social influence and perception. Throughout an academic career, held a faculty position at Swarthmore College and published numerous influential articles on topics related to social perception, group dynamics, and attitude formation.

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Audrey Munson

Model and sculptural muse
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1996 29 years ago — 105 years old

Gained prominence as an American model in the early 20th century. Served as a muse for numerous artists and sculptors, appearing in works that highlight the beauty of the human form. Featured in various art exhibitions and served as the inspiration for several significant sculptures. Made her film debut in the 1915 silent film 'In the Future,' which showcased her modeling career. Remained a notable figure in the art community until later years.

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Toru Takemitsu

Composer and musician renowned for 'Corona'
Born
October 8th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1996 29 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent Japanese composer, pianist, and guitarist, this individual contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Born in 1930, began composing in the 1950s, incorporating elements of traditional Japanese music and Western classical forms. Collaborated with various notable musicians and artists throughout the career, including conducting performances of own compositions. The work 'Corona for Strings' received particular acclaim, showcasing innovative orchestration and the blending of styles. Additionally, composed film scores, enhancing cinematic storytelling in numerous Japanese films. Earned a distinguished reputation in both the national and international music scenes before passing in 1996.

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Morton Gould

Pianist, composer, and conductor of symphonies
Born
December 10th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1996 29 years ago — 82 years old

A prolific American pianist, composer, and conductor active throughout the 20th century, contributed significantly to orchestral and chamber music. Composed various works that blended classical and popular styles, including symphonies, concertos, and ballets. Served as the conductor of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and composed works for notable institutions including the New York Philharmonic and the National Symphony Orchestra. His musical arrangements gained popularity and were widely performed, expanding the reach of classical music into popular culture.

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Haing S. Ngor

Physician and author of 'Survival in the Killing Fields'
Born
March 22nd, 1940 84 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1996 29 years ago — 55 years old

A Cambodian-American physician and author, contributed significantly to literature on the Khmer Rouge regime. Arrived in the United States as a refugee after surviving the Cambodian genocide. Wrote 'Survival in the Killing Fields', which details experiences during this tumultuous period. Worked as a physician in Los Angeles after earning a medical degree. Acted in the film adaptation of his book, receiving critical acclaim for the performance. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role, marking a significant achievement in film.

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Ralph Rowe

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

Participated in Major League Baseball, specifically with the Chicago White Sox and the New York Yankees. After his playing career, transitioned into coaching and managing teams at various levels, including professional minor league teams. Contributed to the development of players and teams through coaching positions in the minor leagues, having a long association with baseball. Held multiple coaching roles until retirement.

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Marguerite Duras

French author and film director
Born
April 4th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1996 29 years ago — 81 years old

An influential figure in literature and cinema, this individual wrote novels, screenplays, and plays. The semi-autobiographical novel "The Lover" became a bestseller and was adapted into a film. Engaged in the avant-garde movement, contributions included exploring themes of memory, identity, and the passage of time. In the realm of cinema, excellent work in film direction was noted, especially in adaptations of her literary works. This person was also involved in political activism and journalism, particularly during World War II.

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John Krol

American cardinal and church leader
Born
October 26th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1996 29 years ago — 85 years old

Played a significant role in the Catholic Church as an American cardinal. Served as the Archbishop of Philadelphia from 1961 to 1988. Participated in the Second Vatican Council, influencing church reforms. Contributed to various social issues including education and civil rights during his tenure.

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