What Happened This Year 1990

People Who Died in 1990

Keith Haring

American Painter and Activist
Born
May 4th, 1958 66 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1990 35 years ago — 31 years old

An artist emerged in the early 1980s, celebrated for distinctive graffiti-inspired artwork characterized by bold lines and vibrant colors. Haring utilized public spaces, especially subway stations, to share messages about social issues, including AIDS awareness, anti-apartheid, and LGBTQ+ rights. Established the Pop Shop in New York City to promote accessible art as a means of cultural expression. Advocated for children's issues and created murals worldwide, solidifying a legacy of art as a tool for activism. Haring's work remains influential in contemporary art and social movements.

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Jean-Marc Boivin

Mountaineer and extreme sports pioneer
Born
April 6th, 1951 73 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1990 35 years ago — 38 years old

A French mountaineer, skier, and pilot, contributed significantly to the world of extreme sports. Excelled in various disciplines including ski mountaineering, and became the first person to ski down the north face of the Annapurna in Nepal. Developed a reputation as an innovator in aerial sports, especially through the use of paragliding and various skiing techniques. Traveled around the globe to participate in challenging expeditions, showcasing remarkable skills in extreme environments. Passed away during an expedition in 1990, leaving behind a legacy in the mountaineering community.

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José Napoleón Duarte

Salvadoran engineer and politician
Born
November 23rd, 1925 99 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1990 35 years ago — 64 years old

An engineer and politician served as President of El Salvador from 1984 to 1989. Focused on modernizing the economy while battling a civil war that lasted over a decade. Implemented various economic reforms and policies aimed at reconstruction and alleviating poverty. Advocated for human rights and worked towards fostering peace in a divided nation.

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Tony Conigliaro

Baseball player for the Boston Red Sox
Born
January 7th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1990 35 years ago — 45 years old

An American baseball player played from 1963 to 1975, primarily as an outfielder for the Boston Red Sox. Achieved significant recognition during the 1965 season when selected for the All-Star Game. Suffered a career-altering eye injury in 1967 but made a comeback to continue playing. His batting prowess and powerful hitting style earned respect and admiration throughout his career.

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Sandro Pertini

Politician and 7th President of Italy
Born
September 25th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1990 35 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent figure in Italian politics, served as the 7th President of Italy from 1978 to 1985. Known for a strong anti-fascist sentiment, participated in the Italian Resistance during World War II. Contributed to the establishment of the Italian Republic and promoted democratic values. Prior to the presidency, held various political roles, including member of the Chamber of Deputies and Secretary of the Italian Socialist Party. His presidency was marked by efforts to strengthen civil rights and social justice in Italy. Retired from politics in 1985 and remained an influential voice in Italian affairs until passing in 1990.

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Johnnie Ray

American singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
January 10th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1990 35 years ago — 63 years old

Achieved fame in the 1950s as a popular vocalist with a distinctive style. Gained recognition for emotional performances and expressive singing. Released several successful singles, including 'Cry' and 'The Little White Cloud That Cried,' which contributed to the rise of pop music during that era. Cultivated a significant fanbase and influenced subsequent generations of artists. His performances often included high-energy stage presence that captivated live audiences.

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Malcolm Forbes

American publisher and entrepreneur
Born
August 19th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1990 35 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent publisher, focused on business and finance, established Forbes Magazine in 1917, which gained recognition for reporting on global economic trends and entrepreneurship. Led the magazine through significant growth, transforming it into a leading source of information on wealth and business strategies. Active in various business ventures including the Forbes Group, the publication's renowned ranking lists, such as the Forbes 400, became standard references for gauging American wealth. Notable for advocating for economic freedom and entrepreneurship, supported numerous philanthropic causes related to education and healthcare.

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Charlotte Moore Sitterly

American astronomer and researcher
Born
September 24th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1990 35 years ago — 91 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy. Focused on stellar spectrometry and the analysis of stellar atmospheres. Conducted extensive research on the spectral lines of stars, particularly those of the Sun. Held a faculty position at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, contributing to the education of future astronomers.

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Hank Gathers

Basketball player, USC star center
Born
1967 58 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1990 35 years ago — 23 years old

Played college basketball at the University of Southern California, where averaged 27.2 points per game during the 1988-89 season. Achieved consensus first-team All-American honors in 1989. His athletic prowess led to notable performances in the NCAA tournament. Tragically collapsed during a game in 1990, and later passed away due to a heart condition, raising awareness about such issues.

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