What Happened This Year 1994

People Who Died in 1994

Sam Francis

American soldier and painter
Born
June 25th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1994 30 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1923, this individual served in the United States Army during World War II before pursuing a career in art. The artist became recognized for contributions to the Color Field movement, a style characterized by large areas of color and spontaneity. His work often highlighted the interplay between space and color, creating immersive environments in painting. Later in life, the artist expanded into printmaking and became influential in the development of abstract expressionism. Studio practices often involved experimentation with materials and techniques, leading to notable achievements in the art community before passing in 1994.

Continue Reading

Shorty Rogers

American jazz trumpet player and composer
Born
April 14th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1994 30 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in the jazz genre during the mid-20th century. Began musical career in the 1940s, performing with leading orchestras, including Lionel Hampton's and Woody Herman's bands. Developed a unique style that blended bebop with the West Coast jazz scene. Composed and arranged music, contributing to the sound and direction of jazz during this period. Created several influential albums, showcasing innovative approaches to composition and improvisation.

Continue Reading

Michael O'Donoghue

American actor and screenwriter for SNL
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1994 30 years ago — 54 years old

An American actor and screenwriter contributed significantly to comedy through writing and performing. Best recognized for involvement with 'Saturday Night Live', played a pivotal role in shaping the show's early years. O'Donoghue's unique wit and dark humor influenced many sketches. Worked as a writer for National Lampoon and published numerous articles, essays, and short stories.

Continue Reading

Carmen McRae

Singer-songwriter and actress
Born
April 8th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
November 10th, 1994 30 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1920, this American singer-songwriter and pianist developed a distinctive vocal style influenced by jazz. A prominent figure in the music scene, she recorded numerous albums and performed extensively in clubs and concert halls. In addition to music, she also pursued a career in acting, appearing in various theatrical productions and films. McRae's work in music spanned several decades, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

Continue Reading

Kuvempu

Indian author and poet, created 'Sri Ramayana Darshanam'
Born
December 29th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
November 10th, 1994 30 years ago — 89 years old

Birth occurred on December 29, 1904. This individual served as a prominent figure in Kannada literature. Contributions include poetry, novels, and plays that explored themes of culture and human values. The celebrated work 'Sri Ramayana Darshanam' presents a unique interpretation of the Ramayana through a Kannada lens. This author also advocated for the use of Kannada as a medium of instruction in education and was instrumental in efforts to enhance the status of Kannada literature.

Continue Reading

John A. Volpe

American politician and governor
Born
December 8th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1994 30 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 61st Governor of Massachusetts from 1965 to 1969. Contributed to numerous significant state policies and initiatives during the time in office. Held various political positions, including as a state legislator. Before a career in politics, served as a soldier during World War II, earning recognition for military service. His tenure involved both social and economic matters affecting the state and its communities.

Continue Reading

Wilma Rudolph

Olympic sprinting gold medalist
Born
June 23rd, 1940 84 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1994 30 years ago — 54 years old

Acclaimed as a sprinter, achieved significant success in the 1960 Summer Olympics. Won three gold medals in the 100 meters, 200 meters, and 4x100 meter relay events. Overcame polio as a child, which led to her remarkable athletic accomplishments. Set several records during her competitive career and became a role model for future generations of athletes. After retiring from competitive running, focused on education and community service.

Continue Reading

Motoo Kimura

Japanese biologist and geneticist
Born
November 13th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1994 30 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of population genetics and evolutionary biology. Developed the neutral theory of molecular evolution, proposing that much of the genetic variation observed in populations is due to random drift rather than natural selection. Held a professorship at the University of Kyoto and published extensively, influencing future research in genetics.

Continue Reading

Jack Baker

American actor and screenwriter
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1994 30 years ago — 47 years old

This American actor and screenwriter gained prominence in the film industry in the 1970s. Baker starred in the cult classic film 'The Last House on the Left' and contributed to various screenplays during that era. His work reflected the themes and styles prevalent in independent cinema of the time. Additionally, he was involved in artistic endeavors that showcased his unique approach to storytelling, further establishing his presence in the film community until his passing in 1994.

Continue Reading