What Happened This Year 1988

People Who Died in 1988

Hilde Gueden

Austrian soprano and opera singer
Born
September 15th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 71 years old

A celebrated Austrian soprano, contributed significantly to opera throughout the mid-20th century. Achieved prominence in the performance of Mozart's operas, particularly 'The Magic Flute' and 'Don Giovanni.' Performed at renowned opera houses including the Vienna State Opera and the Salzburg Festival. Furthermore, interpreted works by Richard Strauss and Wagner, establishing a robust repertoire admired by audiences and critics alike.

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Werner Hartmann

German physicist and academic
Born
January 30th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1912, a physicist contributed significantly to the field of nuclear physics. Worked at various institutions, including the German Atomic Energy Commission. Published extensively on topics related to nuclear structure and reactions. Played a critical role in post-war scientific research in Germany, particularly within the realms of theoretical and experimental physics. His efforts helped shape developments in nuclear energy and its applications.

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Daws Butler

Voice Actor for Animation Classics
Born
November 16th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 72 years old

This individual contributed extensively to voice acting, particularly in animation. Most recognized for voicing iconic characters, achieved prominence through work with major studios including Hanna-Barbera. Created memorable voices for characters such as Yogi Bear, Huckleberry Hound, and Quick Draw McGraw. Also performed as a singer in various projects. Influenced generations of animators and voice actors through techniques and character development.

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Margaret Mee

Botanical illustrator and educator
Born
May 22nd, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 79 years old

An English illustrator and educator specialized in botanical art. Worked extensively in the Amazon rainforest, creating detailed illustrations of tropical plants. Served as a teacher for botanical illustration, sharing expertise with students. Contributed to numerous publications that featured illustrations of the flora of Brazil. Conducted research on plant life which informed conservation efforts.

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Michel Auclair

German-French film and stage actor
Born
September 14th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 66 years old

An accomplished actor, contributions spanned film and theater, gaining recognition for performances in 'Les Diaboliques' and 'La Fin du Monde'. Numerous appearances in French cinema showcased talent from the 1940s to the 1980s. Work included roles in 'Les Trois Mousquetaires' and 'L'Année des Méduses'. Recognized for stage performances as well, contributing to the rich tradition of French theatrical arts.

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Pete Maravich

American basketball player and scorer
Born
June 22nd, 1947 77 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent basketball player, excelled in collegiate and professional leagues. Played for Louisiana State University, achieving a record average of 44.2 points per game. Selected third overall in the 1970 NBA Draft. Played for the Atlanta Hawks, New Orleans Jazz, and Boston Celtics. Recognized for exceptional ball-handling skills and scoring ability, earning five NBA All-Star selections. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987.

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Henfil

Brazilian journalist and illustrator
Born
February 5th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 44 years old

A Brazilian journalist, author, and illustrator contributed significantly to political satire through comic strips. Worked extensively in various publications, including 'O Pasquim', where humorous critiques of government and society were crafted. Also published graphic novels that influenced Brazilian literature and culture during the military dictatorship. Advocated for social justice and human rights through art and journalism.

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Raymond Dart

Paleoanthropologist; Taung Child discoverer
Born
February 4th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 95 years old

A significant figure in paleoanthropology, contributions centered around human evolution. Discovered the Taung Child in 1924, the first fossil of an early human ancestor in Africa. This discovery stimulated interest in the study of human origins and shaped the field of anthropology. Developed the 'Australopithecus' classification of early hominids. Engaged in extensive research on prehistoric fauna and contributed to the understanding of humans' ecological adaptations over time.

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James McCracken

American tenor and opera singer
Born
December 16th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 62 years old

An American tenor and actor, recognized for powerful performances in operatic roles. Gained prominence for performances in Aida, La Bohème, and other notable operas, showcasing an impressive vocal range and dramatic stage presence. Had a successful career with major opera companies, including the Metropolitan Opera and San Francisco Opera. Also appeared in musical theatre productions, contributing to both operatic and theatrical landscapes throughout the mid-20th century.

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