What Happened This Year 1990

People Who Died in 1990

Jacques Soustelle

French anthropologist and politician
Born
February 3rd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1990 34 years ago — 78 years old

An anthropologist and politician from France, this individual became a prominent figure in the French political landscape. Contributions to anthropology focused on the relationships between culture and people, particularly during the time spent in Algeria. Served as a member of the French National Assembly and held various ministerial positions. He played an important role in the French government's approach to the Algerian War and promoted Algerian independence while advocating for cultural understanding.

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Joe Mercer

English football manager and player
Born
August 9th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1990 34 years ago — 76 years old

Played as a footballer for club teams including Arsenal and Everton, and later served as a manager for various teams. Achieved significant success as the manager of Manchester City, leading the team to win the FA Cup and the First Division title. Also managed the England national football team, contributing to the development of English football during the mid-20th century.

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Dorothy Mackaill

Actress in silent films and musicals
Born
March 4th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1990 34 years ago — 87 years old

Born in England, this actress achieved prominence in silent films and transitioned to talkies. Gained recognition for performances in films during the 1920s and 1930s. Starred in notable movies such as 'The Man Who Came Back' and 'Three Wise Fools.' Also pursued a career in music, showcasing vocal talent in various productions. Relocated to the United States, contributing to the entertainment industry on both sides of the Atlantic.

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Viktor Tsoi

Russian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
June 21st, 1962 62 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1990 34 years ago — 28 years old

Emerging from Leningrad, a significant figure in the Soviet rock scene, contributed to the genre through a blend of rock and new wave. Fronted the band Kino, which gained widespread popularity during the late 1980s. The band's music captured the sentiments of a generation seeking change and freedom amidst a restrictive political climate. Tsoi's songwriting and performance style resonated with youth, leading to an enduring legacy in Russian music. His song 'Gruppa Krovi' became emblematic of the era. Tsoi's life was tragically cut short in 1990 after a car accident, but his influence continued to shape Russian rock music posthumously.

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Pat O'Connor

Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1990 34 years ago — 65 years old

Career spanned from the mid-1940s to the 1980s, with significant contributions to the world of professional wrestling. Competed primarily in the United States and was a prominent figure in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Captured the NWA World Heavyweight Championship in 1959, holding the title for several months. After retiring from active competition, transitioned into a successful career as a trainer. Developed and mentored numerous future wrestling stars in the industry.

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Pearl Bailey

Actress and singer of 'Porgy and Bess'
Born
March 29th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1990 34 years ago — 72 years old

An American singer and actress, known for contributions to theater and music from the 1930s through the 1990s. Achieved acclaim for performances in Broadway productions, particularly in 'Porgy and Bess' and 'Hello, Dolly!'. Recorded a number of successful albums and became an influential figure in both the theater and music industries. Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for 'Hello, Dolly!' in 1968. Recognized for her ability to engage audiences with charisma and talent while blending comedic and dramatic performances.

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B. F. Skinner

Psychologist and author of behaviorism
Born
March 20th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1990 34 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent psychologist and author, focused on behaviorism and learning processes. Developed the theory of operant conditioning, emphasizing reinforcement and punishment in shaping behavior. Contributed significantly to psychological research and education methodologies. Authored several influential books, including 'Walden Two' and 'Verbal Behavior', which explored behavior analysis and its applications. Established the Skinner Box, a device used to measure behavior in controlled environments, advancing the field of experimental psychology.

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David Rose

Pianist and conductor of television scores
Born
June 15th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1990 34 years ago — 80 years old

A pianist, composer, and conductor, contributed significantly to the television music landscape. Rose composed and conducted the theme music for the long-running television series "Little House on the Prairie" and was associated with numerous other shows during his career. His prolific output included popular songs and scores that reflected the changing music scene of the mid-20th century. In addition to television, he worked with orchestras and produced albums that showcased his talents as a musician and arranger.

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Stevie Ray Vaughan

Guitarist and singer-songwriter
Born
October 3rd, 1954 70 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1990 34 years ago — 35 years old

A prominent figure in the blues genre, this musician rose to fame in the 1980s with a distinctive guitar style and powerful vocals. His debut album, 'Texas Flood,' released in 1983, showcased his exceptional skill and revitalized interest in blues music. Collaborations included notable artists such as David Bowie and Eric Clapton. Vaughan also founded the band Double Trouble, with whom he achieved significant commercial success. Despite struggles with addiction, he continued to tour and record until his untimely death in 1990, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the music world.

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