What Happened This Year 1988

People Who Died in 1988

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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Connie Mulder

South African politician and minister
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1988 37 years ago — 63 years old

Served as a member of the National Party in South Africa. Held the position of Minister of Information from 1977 to 1980. Actively participated in the political landscape during the apartheid era. Involved in the establishment and promotion of government policies during a contentious time in South African history. After leaving Parliament, continued involvement in various political and business ventures.

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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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Chiang Ching-kuo

Politician, President of Republic of China
Born
April 27th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1988 37 years ago — 77 years old

Served as President of the Republic of China from 1978 until death in 1988. Led Taiwan during a period of significant economic growth and modernization. Implemented various social and economic reforms that transformed Taiwan into a major global economy. Focused on improving diplomatic ties with the United States and strengthening national defense. Initiated policies that relaxed martial law and increased political participation, leading to democratic reforms.

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Georgy Malenkov

Soviet politician and engineer
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1988 37 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the fifth Premier of the Soviet Union from 1953 to 1955 following the death of Joseph Stalin. Held various positions within the Soviet government, significantly influencing post-Stalin leadership dynamics. Contributed to the development of Soviet energy policies and industrial projects. Played a role in the reorganization of the Soviet government during the early stages of the Cold War.

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