What Happened This Year 1988

People Who Died in 1988

Takeo Miki

Japanese politician, 41st Prime Minister
Born
March 17th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 41st Prime Minister of Japan from 1974 to 1976. Miki represented the Liberal Democratic Party and focused on administrative reforms and economic growth. His tenure was marked by efforts to address the energy crisis and enhance Japan's international relations. Prior to premiership, held various significant positions within the government, including Minister of Transport. After leaving office, remained active in politics and continued to influence Japanese governmental policies.

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Fritz Wiessner

Mountaineer with notable alpine ascents
Born
February 26th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Germany, a prominent mountaineer who emigrated to the United States. Achieved significant heights in both Europe and North America, including early climbs in the European Alps. Participated in numerous expeditions to major peaks, focusing on technical climbing routes. Contributed to the development of mountaineering techniques and equipment, influencing future generations of climbers. Served as a guide and mentor for aspiring climbers, sharing experiences from diverse expeditions.

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James H. Douglas Jr.

American lawyer and Deputy Secretary of Defense
Born
March 11th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a lawyer and politician, holding significant positions in government. Functioned as the United States Deputy Secretary of Defense during the early 1960s, where responsibilities included overseeing military operations and defense policy. Engaged in influential decisions during a critical period of the Cold War, contributing to national security strategies. Was involved in various legal and governmental endeavors both prior to and after tenure in the Department of Defense.

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Dick Ricketts

Baseball and basketball athlete
Born
December 4th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent athlete, Ricketts played two professional sports: baseball and basketball. In baseball, he played as a pitcher and had a brief stint in Major League Baseball. His professional basketball career included participation in the NBA, where he contributed to his team's performance during the early years of the league. Ricketts' dual-sport career marked him as a versatile athlete, showcasing skills in both baseball and basketball at competitive levels.

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Guillermo Haro

Mexican astronomer and asteroid discoverer
Born
March 21st, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent astronomer, contributed significantly to the field of astrophysics and astronomy. Played a key role in the discovery of over 100 asteroids and co-discovered several comets. Developed the Mexican astronomical community and was instrumental in establishing observatories in Mexico. His research focused on astrophysical phenomena and the study of stellar objects, particularly in the areas of nebulae and variable stars. Held various academic positions, including at the National Autonomous University of Mexico.

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John Clellon Holmes

American author of 'Go' and professor
Born
March 12th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 62 years old

An American author and professor contributed significantly to the Beat Generation. Best recognized for the novel 'Go', published in 1952, which explores the lives of young adults in New York City. The novel served as an early reflection of the themes and experiences of the Beat movement. In addition to fiction, engaged in poetry and essays, providing insights into contemporary American culture. Worked as a professor at several universities, influencing a new generation of writers and thinkers through teaching and mentorship.

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Francis Ponge

French Poet and Author of 'The Table'
Born
March 27th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1899, this influential French poet became recognized for a unique style that blended prose and poetry. His works often explored everyday objects and the nature of language, establishing a distinctive voice in 20th-century literature. 'The Table' emerged as one of his most celebrated pieces, exemplifying his fascination with the relationship between the material and the poetic. This author's writings contributed to discussions on the philosophy of language and the aesthetics of objects, marking a significant moment in literary history. Active during the surrealist movement, the poet maintained an independent path, focusing on the simplicity and beauty of the mundane.

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Vic Raschi

Baseball Player and Coach, 3-time All-Star
Born
March 28th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 69 years old

Played in Major League Baseball primarily for the New York Yankees from 1946 to 1953. Achieved great success as a pitcher, contributing to several Yankees championships. Later served as a pitching coach for various teams, including the Kansas City Athletics. Had a notable playing career marked by performance in the World Series.

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Gaston Eyskens

Belgian politician and Prime Minister
Born
April 1st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 83 years old

An economist and politician, served as the 47th Prime Minister of Belgium. Held office from 1968 to 1972, leading during a time of economic challenges. Prior to premiership, was a notable figure in economic policy and governance. Contributed to Belgium's economic modernization and was involved in various governmental reforms throughout his career.

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