What Happened This Year 1990

People Who Died in 1990

Hugh MacLennan

Canadian author and educator
Born
March 20th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 83 years old

An influential Canadian author and educator contributed to Canadian literature through novels, essays, and poetry. Teaching at McGill University and other institutions fostered a new generation of writers. The work focused on Canadian identity and the complexities of national consciousness. Prominent novels include 'Two Solitudes' and 'The Watch That Ends the Night', which explore themes of cultural conflict in Canada. As an educator, facilitated discussions on literature and culture, shaping the intellectual landscape of the country.

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Martin Ritt

Film director and actor
Born
March 2nd, 1914 112 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 76 years old

Directed films and television series spanning several decades, making significant contributions to American cinema. Ritt's directorial works include notable titles such as "Hud," which received multiple Academy Award nominations, and "The Spy Who Came in from the Cold," acclaimed for its adaptation of John le Carré's novel. Acted in various productions including the stage and film adaptation of "The Glass Menagerie." Ritt's career included works that highlighted social issues and intricate character studies, often collaborating with prominent actors.

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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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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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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 110 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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Zawgyi

Burmese poet and literary historian
Born
April 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1907, this individual made significant contributions to Burmese literature as a poet, author, critic, and academic. The work focused on the history and development of Burmese literature, establishing a scholarly foundation that influenced future generations. With a deep understanding of traditional and modern literary forms, this person wrote extensively on various aspects of poetry, prose, and cultural heritage. The influence extended beyond academic circles, reaching into the broader landscape of Burmese cultural identity and heritage.

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