What Happened This Year 1988

People Who Died in 1988

Andy Gibb

Singer-songwriter and actor
Born
March 5th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1988 37 years ago — 30 years old

Born in England and later moved to Australia, achieved widespread fame in the late 1970s as a pop singer. Rose to prominence with hits such as 'I Just Want to Be Your Everything' and 'Shadow Dancing.' Additionally, contributed to the music scene as a member of the Gibb family, which included the Bee Gees. Gained recognition as an actor through appearances on television shows, including the popular series 'Solid Gold.'

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Dmitri Polyakov

Ukrainian general and spy in the USSR
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1988 37 years ago — 67 years old

Served as a general in the Soviet Army and became a prominent spy for the West during the Cold War. Established connections with intelligence agencies, providing crucial information that affected various military and political strategies. Polyakov's espionage activities were significant in shaping Western understanding of Soviet operations. His double life as a military leader and spy lasted for decades until his capture.

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Mickey Thompson

Race car driver and innovator
Born
December 7th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1988 36 years ago — 59 years old

One of the most renowned figures in American motorsport history, contributions included racing and car design. Competed in various racing series including the Indianapolis 500 and drag racing events. Designed innovative high-performance vehicles that set numerous records. Established the Mickey Thompson Entertainment Group, promoting motorsports worldwide.

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Billy Butterfield

Trumpet player and bandleader of swing era
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1988 36 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent trumpet and cornet player, contributed to the development of big band music during the swing era. Played with renowned orchestras, including the Bob Crosby Orchestra and the Benny Goodman Orchestra. Led his own band, which gained recognition in dance halls and on radio broadcasts. Butterfield's warm tone and expressive phrasing contributed significantly to the sound of the music of the time.

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Bun Cook

Canadian ice hockey player and coach
Born
September 18th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1988 36 years ago — 83 years old

Played professional ice hockey and served as a coach. Notable playing career included stints with the New York Rangers and the Chicago Black Hawks in the NHL. As a player, contributed to team victories and performances during the 1930s. Transitioned to coaching, leading various teams in lower leagues. His career spanned several decades, impacting the sport at both player and coaching levels.

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Robert Joffrey

American dancer and choreographer
Born
December 24th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1988 36 years ago — 57 years old

A significant figure in American dance, played a pivotal role in the establishment of a major ballet company. Founded a dance company that became a leading force in the evolution of American ballet. Contributed to the development of contemporary ballet, merging classical training with innovative choreography. Worked extensively with a range of choreographers and composers, producing numerous influential ballet performances.

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Charles Willeford

American author known for hardboiled fiction
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1988 36 years ago — 69 years old

An American author, poet, and critic, made significant contributions to the genre of hardboiled fiction. Willeford's literary career included writing novels, stories, and essays, often infusing his narratives with elements of crime and existential themes. His most recognized work, 'The Burnt Orange Heresy,' became a staple in the genre and was adapted into a film. Willeford also served as a soldier during World War II, experiences that influenced his writing. Additionally, he was a poet, contributing to various literary magazines and expressing his perspectives on society and life through his poetry.

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Ted Kluszewski

Baseball player and coach, Cincinnati Reds
Born
September 10th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1988 36 years ago — 63 years old

A professional baseball player and coach, made significant contributions to Major League Baseball primarily as a first baseman. Played for the Cincinnati Reds and was part of the 1961 World Series Championship team. Known for a powerful batting style, he achieved a .298 batting average over his career. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching, sharing expertise and experience with younger players.

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Edgar Faure

French politician, Prime Minister
Born
August 18th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1988 36 years ago — 79 years old

An influential figure in French politics, served as Prime Minister during the late 20th century. Held multiple ministerial roles throughout a lengthy political career. Contributed to policies regarding education and social affairs. Was a member of the French Academy and later served in the French National Assembly, advocating for issues related to post-war recovery and political reform.

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