What Happened This Year 1994

People Who Died in 1994

Gary Kildall

Computer scientist, founded Digital Research
Born
May 19th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1994 30 years ago — 52 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of operating systems, particularly through the creation of CP/M (Control Program for Microcomputers). Founded Digital Research, which provided software for microcomputers and played a key role in the early personal computing revolution. Developed one of the first operating systems compatible with the IBM PC. Later, CP/M was overshadowed by MS-DOS but was pivotal in establishing software standards and practices in the industry.

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Julian Schwinger

Theoretical physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
February 12th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1994 30 years ago — 76 years old

Contributed significantly to quantum field theory, specifically in the development of quantum electrodynamics. His work provided a theoretical framework for understanding particle interactions. Served as a professor at various institutions, including UCLA. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1965, sharing the honor with Richard Feynman and Sin-Itiro Tomonaga for their contributions to the field.

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Jean Borotra

French tennis player and Davis Cup champion
Born
August 13th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1994 30 years ago — 95 years old

Achieved significant success in tennis during the 1920s and 1930s. Borotra won four Grand Slam singles titles, including the French Open and Wimbledon. He played an integral role in the French Davis Cup team, contributing to their victories in 1927 and 1928. Known for his powerful serve and competitive spirit, Borotra was part of a group of players that helped elevate the sport's popularity in France. In addition to his singles titles, he excelled in doubles, winning multiple championships with various partners.

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Victor Barbeau

Canadian author and academic
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1994 30 years ago — 98 years old

An academic and writer, contributions included significant work in the fields of literature and education. Published numerous scholarly articles and books, focusing on Canadian literature and language. Barbeau's career included a tenure as a professor and a role as a leading figure in literary studies in Canada. Actively engaged in the promotion of Canadian authors and their work, influencing many students and writers alike. His academic insights contributed to the understanding of cultural narratives within Canada.

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Paul Delvaux

Belgian painter of surrealist works
Born
September 23rd, 1897 127 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1994 30 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1897, a Belgian painter associated with the Surrealist movement, predominantly focused on themes of dreams and the subconscious. This artist studied at the Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts in Brussels and developed a unique style characterized by the incorporation of classical themes and figures into mysterious, dreamlike settings. Often depicted solitary women against surreal backdrops, including urban landscapes and mythological elements. Throughout the career, significant exhibitions in Europe showcased the evolution of the artistic vision and technique. Noteworthy works include 'Les Vénus'.

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Helen Cordero

Pueblo potter, crafted narrative pottery
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
July 24th, 1994 30 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent potter from the Cochiti Pueblo, crafted pottery that tells stories through intricate designs and figures. Created the narrative tradition of using clay to depict scenes and stories from Pueblo life. Gained recognition for exceptional craftsmanship and cultural representation through artworks. Contributed to the preservation and revitalization of Pueblo pottery techniques. Was awarded the New Mexico Governor's Award for Excellence in the Arts.

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James Luther Adams

American minister and theologian
Born
November 12th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1994 30 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed significantly to Unitarian Universalism as a minister and theologian. Helped shape modern theological thought and social ethics through various writings and teachings. Advocated for social justice, emphasizing the importance of community and individual rights. Engaged in numerous academic endeavors, focusing on the role of religion in society and promoting democratic ideals within the church.

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Kevin Carter

South African photojournalist with Pulitzer
Born
September 13th, 1960 64 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1994 30 years ago — 33 years old

A South African photojournalist gained recognition for powerful photographic documentation of humanitarian crises. The work captured in coverage of the famine in Sudan in 1993 led to a Pulitzer Prize for Feature Photography. This photograph depicted a starving child and a vulture waiting nearby, striking a chord globally and raising awareness regarding the dire situation in the country. The profound impact of this image on public consciousness remains significant as it highlighted the severe effects of famine and conflict. His career included contributions to various publications, emphasizing the importance of visual storytelling in journalism.

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Dorothy Hodgkin

Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 12th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1994 30 years ago — 84 years old

A biochemist and crystallographer, this individual developed techniques for X-ray crystallography. With a focus on complex organic molecules, significant contributions included the structure of penicillin and vitamin B12, leading to recognition in the scientific community. The pioneering work paved the way for advancements in the field of chemistry and medicine. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1964 for contributions to structural analysis using X-ray methods.

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