What Happened This Year 1988

Historical Events from This Year 1988 (View all 111)

Religion & Philosophy

Formation of ELCA Unites Lutheran Churches

January 1st, 1988 37 years ago

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) was formed, uniting three major Lutheran bodies: the American Lutheran Church, the Lutheran Church in America, and the Association of Evangelical Lutheran Churches. This merger created the largest Lutheran denomination in the U.S., with a shared mission emphasizing social justice, community engagement, and global outreach. Leaders from these congregations gathered to celebrate this significant development, establishing a new framework for worship and service.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Condor Flugdienst Flight 3782 Crash Overview

January 2nd, 1988 37 years ago

Condor Flugdienst Flight 3782, a charter flight, crashed near Seferihisar, Turkey, resulting in the loss of 16 lives. The aircraft was on a return flight from Antalya to Frankfurt when it encountered severe weather. The conditions led to the pilot's inability to maintain control, resulting in a crash shortly after takeoff. Investigations revealed that the aircraft attempted to return to the airport due to turbulent weather but ultimately succumbed to the challenges.

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Politics & Government

Lee Teng-hui Becomes First Native Taiwanese President

January 13th, 1988 37 years ago

Lee Teng-hui was inaugurated as the President of the Republic of China, marking a significant moment in Taiwan's history as he became the first native Taiwanese to hold the position. The inauguration took place following the death of former President Chiang Ching-kuo, which prompted a series of changes in Taiwan's political landscape. Lee’s leadership signaled a shift towards greater democratization and the affirmation of Taiwanese identity within the context of Taiwan's political status. His presidency began a new chapter in the pursuit of democratic reforms in Taiwan.

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Accidents & Tragedies

China Southwest Airlines Flight 4146 Crash

January 18th, 1988 37 years ago

China Southwest Airlines Flight 4146, a domestic flight en route to Kunming from Chongqing, crashed shortly after takeoff from Chongqing Baishiyi Airport. The crash resulted in the tragic loss of all 108 individuals on board, including 98 passengers and 10 crew members. Reports indicated that the aircraft, a Boeing 737, encountered severe weather conditions, which may have contributed to the tragic accident. Investigations followed to determine the precise cause of the crash and improve safety protocols.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Trans-Colorado Airlines Flight 2286 Crash

January 19th, 1988 37 years ago

Trans-Colorado Airlines Flight 2286, a commuter flight from Denver to Farmington, New Mexico, crashed near Bayfield, Colorado, killing all nine people on board. The aircraft, a twin-engine Beechcraft 1900, encountered severe weather conditions that contributed to the fatal accident. The flight, carrying both crew and passengers, was attempting to navigate through turbulent conditions in the San Juan Mountains when it lost control. First responders arrived shortly after the crash but found no survivors.

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Crime & Law

Supreme Court Strikes Down Anti-Abortion Laws

January 28th, 1988 37 years ago

The Supreme Court of Canada ruled against existing anti-abortion laws, determining they violated women's rights as outlined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This landmark decision came from a case involving Henry Morgentaler, who challenged the constitutionality of the laws after performing abortions without medical approval. The court's ruling effectively legalized abortion in Canada, allowing women to make autonomous choices regarding their reproductive health without legal restrictions.

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Born in 1988 (View all 733)

Dallas Keuchel

Baseball pitcher, 2015 Cy Young Award winner
Born
January 1st, 1988 37 years ago

Professional baseball pitcher played for several teams in Major League Baseball, primarily noted for his time with the Houston Astros. Debuted in 2012, achieved significant success in the 2015 season, earning the Cy Young Award for excellence in pitching. Played a critical role in the Astros' victory in the 2017 World Series. Known for a distinctive pitching style that relied on ground balls and exceptional control.

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Luke Harangody

Basketball player, NCAA standout
Born
January 2nd, 1988 37 years ago

Played college basketball at Notre Dame, earning All-American honors. Competed professionally for several teams in the NBA and overseas. Notable for his scoring ability and rebounding skills during his collegiate career, he left a mark with impressive performances throughout his time at Notre Dame.

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Germán Cano

Argentine footballer with goal-scoring record
Born
January 2nd, 1988 37 years ago

Professional footballer born in Argentina. Primarily played as a striker and achieved notable success in various leagues. Had a significant career in clubs such as Gimnasia La Plata, Defensa y Justicia, and most recently, Vélez Sarsfield. Notably led multiple seasons in goal scoring in the Argentine Primera División and made essential contributions to his teams during domestic league play and international competitions.

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Matt Frattin

Ice hockey player for Toronto Maple Leafs
Born
January 3rd, 1988 37 years ago

Birth occurred in 1988 in Canada. Played college hockey at the University of North Dakota, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs and made an impact during the 2011-2012 NHL season. Participated in various teams within the NHL and AHL throughout a professional career that spanned several years. Achieved significant milestones during time in the league.

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Ikechi Anya

Scottish-Nigerian footballer, played for Watford
Born
January 3rd, 1988 37 years ago

Born in 1988, a Scottish-Nigerian footballer primarily played as a winger. Developed through the ranks at the youth level and began a professional career in English football. Played for various clubs, with notable contributions at Watford in the Premier League. Represented the Scotland national team, earning caps in international competitions.

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The Completionist

YouTuber focusing on video game completion
Born
January 3rd, 1988 37 years ago

An American YouTuber specializes in video game content, primarily focusing on completing video games and reviewing them in detail. Launched a channel that features in-depth game reviews, exploring every aspect of the games played. Content often emphasizes thoroughness and quality in reviewing games from various platforms. Gained a significant following through engaging presentations and insights into the gaming industry.

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People Who Died in 1988 (View all 275)

Clementine Hunter

Folk artist with renowned paintings
Died
January 1st, 1988 37 years ago — None years old

An American folk artist, this individual created vibrant paintings that illustrated rural life and the culture of the southern United States. Active primarily in the mid-20th century, worked mostly on canvas and plywood, drawing inspiration from personal experiences and the landscape of the Cane River region in Louisiana. Her artwork gained recognition for its storytelling quality and representation of African American life. Exhibited work in numerous galleries, contributing to the folk art movement and influencing future generations of artists. Passed away in 1988, leaving behind a lasting legacy through art.

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Rose Ausländer

Ukrainian-German poet and author
Born
May 11th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1988 37 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1901 in Ukraine, this poet faced significant challenges during her life, including the impact of war and displacement. Relocating to Germany in the 1920s, she became a prominent figure in the literary scene. Her poetry often dealt with themes of exile, identity, and the human condition. Her works were influenced by her experiences during World War II and the Holocaust. After the war, she returned to Germany, where she continued to write and publish, gaining recognition in German literature until her death in 1988.

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Trevor Howard

English actor in classic films
Born
September 29th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1988 37 years ago — 74 years old

An English actor, achieved prominence in the mid-20th century. Featured in a range of films across various genres, with a notable role in "Brief Encounter" and performances in "The Third Man" and "The Bounty." Became a respected figure in the acting community for stage and screen work. Worked in partnership with acclaimed directors and fellow actors throughout a notable career in film and theater.

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Isidor Isaac Rabi

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 29th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1988 37 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physics, especially in the areas of atomic and molecular physics. Developed the method of molecular beam resonance, which allowed for significant advancements in the study of atomic structure. Held academic positions at Columbia University, influencing generations of physicists. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1944 for the discovery of the effect that bears his name, which led to important developments in quantum mechanics.

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Pappy Boyington

Colonel and WWII fighter pilot
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1988 37 years ago — 76 years old

Served as a United States Marine Corps pilot during World War II. Commanded the famous Black Sheep Squadron, achieving significant aerial victories. Awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism while leading his squadron in the South Pacific. His experiences were later chronicled in the television series 'Baa Baa Black Sheep'.

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Piero Taruffi

Italian racing driver and motorcycle racer
Born
October 12th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1988 37 years ago — 81 years old

Competed in both car and motorcycle racing. Participated in the Mille Miglia and achieved notable success in the 1950s. Drove for teams such as Ferrari and Maserati. Won the 1954 Mille Miglia and finished second in the 1955 race. Continued to race in various competitions until the late 1960s, remaining involved in motorsport as a journalist and commentator.

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