What Happened This Year 1988

People Who Died in 1988

Albert Ross Tilley

Canadian captain and surgeon
Born
November 24th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 84 years old

A Canadian captain and surgeon served during World War II. Tilley played a crucial role in the medical care of soldiers on the battlefield. After the war, Tilley continued to contribute to the medical field as a dedicated surgeon. His efforts in wartime medicine had a lasting influence on surgical practices in the Canadian military.

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Raymond Williams

Welsh author and academic on culture
Born
August 31st, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent figure in literary criticism and cultural studies, contributed significantly to the understanding of culture and its role in society. Scholar specialized in the intersection of literature, sociology, and politics. Authored influential works such as 'Culture and Society' and 'The Long Revolution', which examined the development of cultural theory in the context of social change. Held a position at Cambridge University, where development of courses in drama and literature occurred. Played a role in the founding of the National Theatre in the UK.

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Richard Caliguiri

American politician and mayor
Born
October 20th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 57 years old

Served as the 54th Mayor of Pittsburgh from 1977 until 1988. Focused on urban renewal and economic development initiatives during administration. Oversaw significant improvements in infrastructure and public services, contributing to the revitalization of Pittsburgh. Advocated for civil rights and community engagement, emphasized the importance of addressing neighborhood concerns. His tenure was marked by efforts to enhance the quality of life for residents and promote the city as a viable destination for business and tourism.

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Stuart Symington

American politician and Secretary of the Air Force
Born
June 26th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in U.S. politics, served as the first Secretary of the Air Force from 1947 to 1950. Held a number of significant positions in government, including U.S. Senator from Missouri from 1953 to 1976. Contributed to the establishment and development of the U.S. Air Force as an independent service branch during its formative years. Played a key role in post-World War II military policy and the U.S. response to the Cold War.

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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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Jimmy Soul

Pop-soul singer with hit single 'If You Want to Be Happy'
Born
August 24th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 46 years old

Born in 1942, this American pop-soul singer gained prominence in the 1960s. The career began with a focus on blending rhythm and blues with popular music. The most recognized work includes the hit single 'If You Want to Be Happy', which became a staple of the genre. This song reached the top of the Billboard charts, reflecting the widespread appeal of the artist's music during this era. Despite later declines in popularity, the legacy of the hit song persists in various covers and tributes, marking a significant contribution to the pop-soul genre.

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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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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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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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