What Happened This Year 2016
People Who Died in 2016
Patrice Munsel
A noted American soprano and actress, showcased prominent talents in both opera and musical theater. Gained acclaim for the title role in the 1947 production of "Merry Widow" at the Metropolitan Opera. Also starred in productions of operas such as "The Magic Flute" and "The Ballad of Baby Doe." Gained recognition as a guest artist on television series including "The Ed Sullivan Show" and "The Bell Telephone Hour."
Continue ReadingDenys Wilkinson
A physicist and academic specialized in nuclear physics. Contributed significantly to the development of the field, particularly in relation to nuclear reactors and particle physics. Served as a professor at the University of Oxford and held several prestigious academic positions. Conducted extensive research that advanced the understanding of nuclear processes and their applications. Involved in various scientific organizations and published numerous papers throughout the career.
Continue ReadingJoe Temperley
A Scottish musician who played the baritone saxophone and clarinet, active primarily in jazz music. Temperley collaborated with prominent artists and orchestras, including the Duke Ellington Orchestra. He contributed significantly to the jazz scene in both Scotland and the United States, particularly in New York City. His performances and recordings highlighted his expertise and artistry with woodwind instruments, earning respect within the music community. Temperley also served as a faculty member at several music institutions, sharing his knowledge with aspiring musicians.
Continue ReadingGogi Grant
Rose to prominence in the 1950s as a pop singer. Achieved significant success with the hit single 'The Wayward Wind', which topped the charts and earned widespread acclaim. Gogi Grant's career spanned several decades, featuring performances on major television shows and recordings that resonated with audiences. The artist's smooth vocals and emotive delivery defined her style, contributing to the evolution of popular music in that era.
Continue ReadingMichel Rocard
A prominent civil servant and politician served as the 160th Prime Minister of France from 1988 to 1991. Rocard was a member of the Socialist Party and played a significant role in the party's evolution during the late 20th century. His tenure as Prime Minister was marked by efforts to reform the economy and address social issues. Rocard also held various ministerial positions throughout his career, contributing to public policy and governance. After his time as Prime Minister, he continued to influence political discourse through active participation in various social and political initiatives.
Continue ReadingFrank Armitage
An Australian-American artist worked primarily in painting and muralism. Born in 1924, created a body of work that reflects influences from both Australian and American art styles. Contributed significantly to the visual art scene, with a focus on landscapes and abstract compositions. Also served as an educator, sharing artistic techniques with students. His work has been exhibited in various galleries, demonstrating a blend of personal vision and cultural motifs.
Continue ReadingNate Thurmond
Played as a professional basketball player primarily for the San Francisco Warriors in the NBA during the 1960s and 1970s. Recognized as one of the league's top forwards, contributed to the team's success with exceptional defensive and rebounding skills. Achieved 7 All-Star selections throughout his career and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1985, solidifying a legacy as one of the game's greats. Later played for the Chicago Bulls and the Cleveland Cavaliers, enhancing the overall competitive landscape of the league.
Continue ReadingE. R. Braithwaite
Born in Guyana, a novelist, writer, teacher, and diplomat emerged as a significant literary figure. The work 'To Sir, With Love' gained international recognition, depicting the challenges of a teacher in a racially divided school in London. This novel, along with his other writings, reflects the themes of race, education, and social justice. The author also served as a diplomat in various capacities, utilizing the skills gained from both his educational background and literary career. His contributions to literature and his advocacy for equality remain significant in the discussion around race and identity.
Continue ReadingWayne Jackson
A prominent trumpeter, contributed significantly to the music scene as a member of the Memphis Horns. Played a crucial role in the sound of soul music, collaborating with notable artists such as Al Green, Otis Redding, and Elvis Presley. Jackson's distinct trumpet work became a defining element in numerous hit records during the 1960s and 70s. The duo, Memphis Horns, earned recognition for their horn arrangements in popular music, influencing many genres. The artist’s contributions extended beyond performance, having been involved in studio sessions that shaped the sound of contemporary music.
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