What Happened This Year 1990

People Who Died in 1990

Bob Davies

Basketball player and coach for the NBL
Born
January 15th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 70 years old

Career spanned from the late 1930s to the mid-1950s. Played as a guard and is recognized for significant contributions to the sport. Coached teams after retirement from playing, influencing future generations of players. Achieved remarkable success in both playing and coaching roles. Served in the military during World War II before resuming basketball career.

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Malcolm Dole

Chemist and academic, contributed to polymer science.
Born
March 4th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent American chemist, Dole made significant contributions in the field of polymer science. Dole's research focused on the chemistry of polymers and the development of synthetic materials. He spent much of his career at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he advanced understanding of polymer behavior and composition. Dole's work laid the foundation for advancements in plastics and materials science. He published extensively, influencing both academic and practical applications of chemistry throughout his career.

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Joe Sewell

American baseball player, Hall of Famer
Born
October 9th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 92 years old

A former professional baseball player, achieved recognition as a shortstop in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the Cleveland Indians from 1920 to 1933, gaining a reputation for exceptional hitting ability and contact skills. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977. His career batting average of .312 showcased his consistency at the plate, and he holds the record for the fewest strikeouts by a player with over 7,000 at-bats.

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Barbara Baxley

American actress in film and theater
Born
January 1st, 1923 103 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 67 years old

An accomplished actress, Baxley gained recognition for her performances on stage and screen. Appeared in notable films such as 'The Fox' and 'Three Days of the Condor'. Also had a significant presence in television, including roles in 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Streets of San Francisco'. Worked extensively in theater, particularly in productions on Broadway. Received several accolades throughout her career, highlighting her contributions to the performing arts.

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Beatrice Shilling

Motorcycle racer and engineer
Born
March 8th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed to motorcycle racing and engineering during the early to mid-20th century. Achievements in both fields highlighted a blend of technical skill and competitive spirit. Competed successfully in events at the Isle of Man TT, contributing significantly to the racing community. Engaged in engineering projects during World War II, particularly focused on fuel systems for aircraft.

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J. C. R. Licklider

Computer Scientist who developed ARPANET
Born
March 11th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent computer scientist and psychologist contributed significantly to the development of computer networks. Played a crucial role in conceptualizing and designing the ARPANET, the precursor to the modern Internet. Worked at the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) and advocated for the idea of interactive computing, emphasizing the importance of user-computer interaction. His vision laid the groundwork for future computer communications and the networking technologies that followed.

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Nahum Norbert Glatzer

Theologian and scholar specializing in Judaism
Born
March 25th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Ukraine and later relocating to the United States, a significant figure in Jewish scholarship and theology. Contributed extensively to the understanding of Jewish texts and philosophy. Engaged in teaching at several institutions, including the Hebrew Union College. Authored numerous works that explored Jewish history, mysticism, and theology, influencing the study of Judaism in contemporary contexts. His translations and interpretations of Jewish writings have been widely recognized and utilized in academic circles.

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Tadeusz Kantor

Polish director and set designer
Born
April 6th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent figure in the Polish avant-garde theatre movement, contributed significantly as a director, painter, and set designer. Founded the Cricot 2 Theatre in 1955, emphasizing experimental forms of performance. Developed unique artistic concepts incorporating elements of performance art and visual arts. His work often explored themes of memory, history, and identity, leading to recognition in both Polish and international theatrical circles.

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B. J. Wilson

English rock drummer with Procol Harum
Born
March 18th, 1947 79 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1947, this English rock drummer gained prominence as a member of Procol Harum. The band is recognized for its 1967 hit single 'A Whiter Shade of Pale', which featured orchestral arrangements and classical influences. Wilson's drumming style contributed to the band's distinctive sound through their blend of rock and progressive influences. Throughout the late 1960s and 1970s, Wilson recorded several albums with Procol Harum, showcasing his skills on tracks that received critical acclaim. The band became known for their elaborate live performances and unique compositions in the rock genre.

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