What Happened This Year 2016
People Who Died in 2016
Andrew Smith
A basketball player who played college basketball for the Butler Bulldogs. Contributed significantly to the team's success during the NCAA tournaments, including reaching the national championship game in 2010. His performance garnered attention, culminating in a professional career.
Continue ReadingRod Temperton
A keyboard player, songwriter, and record producer. Initially worked with the band Heatwave and contributed to their hit 'Boogie Nights.' Gained recognition for writing and producing tracks for Michael Jackson, including the iconic 'Thriller' which is one of the best-selling albums of all time. Also wrote 'Rock with You' and 'Give Me the Night' for George Benson. Received multiple Grammy nominations throughout the career, winning a Grammy Award for the song 'Rock with You.' Temperton’s work significantly shaped the sound of popular music in the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingEddy Christiani
Born in the Netherlands, this individual gained prominence as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. In the 1940s and 1950s, he became a notable figure in the Dutch music scene, achieving widespread popularity. This artist's career involved extensive performances across the Netherlands, showcasing a unique blend of traditional Dutch music and contemporary styles. Instrumental in the development of pop music in the Dutch language, he produced several memorable songs and records that resonated with audiences. Over the years, he earned recognition for his contribution to Dutch music, particularly through his engaging live performances.
Continue ReadingKeith Emerson
A prominent pianist and keyboard player, contributed significantly to the progressive rock genre. Co-founded the band Emerson, Lake & Palmer, which achieved commercial success in the 1970s. Innovatively combined classical music elements with rock, earning acclaim for virtuosic performances and elaborate compositions. Released several solo albums and collaborated with various artists throughout his career, showcasing a range of musical styles.
Continue ReadingForbes Carlile
Competed in modern pentathlon at the 1948 London Olympics. Later became an influential coach, developing training programs for athletes. Contributed to the growth of modern pentathlon in Australia. Established a legacy through coaching and mentoring young athletes.
Continue ReadingSimon Ramo
Contributions to the field of physics and engineering influenced advancements in technology, especially in aerospace and military applications. Co-founded the aerospace company Ramo-Wooldridge Corporation, which played a key role in the development of the Polaris missile. Played a vital role in the development of the first successful inertial guidance system used in missiles. Received the National Medal of Technology and Innovation for significant contributions to engineering and technology throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingVěra Čáslavská
A prominent gymnast from Czechoslovakia, major accomplishments took place during the 1960s. Achieved significant success at the Olympic Games, winning a total of seven gold medals. Dominated the 1968 Olympics, securing four gold medals amidst political turmoil. After retirement, transitioned into coaching and was actively involved in promoting gymnastics in the country.
Continue ReadingThorbjörn Fälldin
A farmer and politician served as the 27th Prime Minister of Sweden from 1976 to 1982. Launched a political career in the Center Party, focusing on rural issues and decentralization. Undertook major initiatives in environmental sustainability and agrarian policy while in office. Navigated through economic challenges and the energy crisis of the 1970s, promoting nuclear power and alternative energy sources. Retired from active politics after serving as a key figure in Swedish politics for several decades, emphasizing rural interests and local governance.
Continue ReadingPeter Hintze
A prominent figure in German politics, served as a member of the Christian Democratic Union. Held various positions within the government, including Deputy Chairman of the CDU. Contributed to the development of policies impacting economic and social issues. Actively participated in the Bundestag, Germany's federal parliament, focusing on areas such as technology and energy.
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