Vol. 1980s · No. 1986 · PRICE 25¢
The 1986 Times
AI-Generated Historical Illustration
January 28, 1986 | United States
1986: High Tops, Heartbreak, and History
A year defined by stark contrasts, 1986 witnessed devastating tragedies that altered global policy alongside vibrant cultural triumphs. From blockbuster cinema and iconic music mashups to monumental political shifts, it remains an unforgettable chapter of the decade.
Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster
A catastrophic reactor explosion at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine released massive radioactive fallout, triggering the worst nuclear accident in human history.
Maradona’s 'Hand of God' Goal
Diego Maradona scored two legendary, contrasting goals against England in the World Cup quarter-finals, cementing his status as one of football's greatest icons.
Also this year
The People Power Revolution
February 22–25, 1986 | Philippines
Millions of peaceful protesters filled the streets of Manila, successfully ending the two-decade dictatorial regime of Ferdinand Marcos.
'Top Gun' Dominates Box Office
May 16, 1986 | Feature Film
Tom Cruise starred as naval aviator Maverick in a high-flying action film that became the highest-grossing movie of the year and defined 1980s pop culture.
Launch of 'The Legend of Zelda'
February 21, 1986 | Nintendo Famicom
Shigeru Miyamoto's groundbreaking action-adventure game debuted in Japan, revolutionizing video game design with open-ended exploration and a battery save feature.
Run-D.M.C. and Aerosmith's 'Walk This Way'
July 4, 1986 | Hip-Hop / Rock
A groundbreaking collaboration fused rap and hard rock, breaking down radio genre barriers and launching hip-hop music firmly into the mainstream.
Hands Across America
May 25, 1986 | Philanthropy
Approximately 6.5 million people held hands in a continuous human chain across the continental United States to raise money and awareness for hunger and homelessness.