What Happened This Year 1994

People Who Died in 1994

Jay Miner

Computer Scientist and Engineer, Amiga
Born
May 31st, 1932 92 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent computer scientist and engineer, contributed significantly to the development of personal computing. Played a vital role in creating the revolutionary Amiga personal computer during the 1980s. Worked extensively at Atari, where involvement in video game development occurred. Established a legacy in computer graphics and hardware design that is still recognized today.

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Mas Oyama

Martial artist and founder of Kyokushin
Born
July 27th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1923, a martial artist acclaimed for founding Kyokushin karate, a style emphasizing full-contact sparring. Established a worldwide network of dojos and became an influential figure in karate. Gained recognition for participating in public demonstrations, including legendary fights against bulls, showcasing physical prowess and discipline. Authored multiple books on karate, contributing to its popularization, and trained numerous students, further expanding the discipline's reach.

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Ralph Hill

American middle-distance runner
Born
December 26th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 86 years old

Competed in middle-distance running events, particularly excelling in the 1500 meters. Represented the United States in international competitions, including the Olympics. Achieved notable successes in the 1932 Los Angeles Olympic Games, finishing fourth in the 1500 meters. Established a strong presence in collegiate athletics while running for the University of Southern California.

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Arthur Porritt

Governor-General of New Zealand
Born
August 10th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 94 years old

A physician and politician, held the position of 11th Governor-General of New Zealand from 1967 to 1972. Contributed to medical and public health advancements in New Zealand, and served as a member of various health organizations. Involved in the Commonwealth and international health matters, promoting healthcare improvements. Engaged in educational initiatives and was associated with several medical societies.

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Sir Karl Popper

Philosopher known for scientific falsifiability
Born
July 28th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 92 years old

An Austrian-English philosopher and academic contributed extensively to the philosophy of science. Developed the concept of falsifiability as a criterion for distinguishing scientific statements from non-scientific ones. Authored several influential works, including 'The Logic of Scientific Discovery' and 'The Open Society and Its Enemies,' which emphasized critical rationalism and the importance of open societies. Engaged in debates on the philosophy of knowledge and criticized historicism and totalitarianism.

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Yves Navarre

French novelist and playwright
Born
September 24th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 54 years old

An influential figure in contemporary French literature, this author gained recognition for works that explored themes of love, identity, and belonging. The author wrote several acclaimed novels and received prominent awards, including the prestigious Prix Femina. With a background in journalism, the writing style combined rich narrative techniques with deeply personal insights. The author's works often contained autobiographical elements and contributed significantly to discussions around sexuality and societal norms in France during the late 20th century.

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Jérôme Lejeune

Pediatrician and geneticist; Down syndrome research
Born
June 13th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 68 years old

A pediatrician and geneticist, significant contributions included the discovery of the chromosomal basis of Down syndrome in 1959. Developed pivotal genetic research that advanced understanding of intellectual disabilities. Involved in medical ethics discussions, particularly regarding the implications of genetic research on human life. Worked at the Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital in Paris and held a professorship at the University of Paris. Involved in educational initiatives and promoted the rights of individuals with disabilities.

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Marjorie Joyner

Make-up artist and businesswoman
Born
October 24th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent make-up artist and entrepreneur, contributed significantly to the beauty industry. Developed and patented a permanent waving machine, revolutionizing hair styling in the 1920s. Established a successful beauty school, providing training for aspiring beauticians. Advocated for the inclusion of African Americans in the cosmetics field, promoting diversity in beauty standards.

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William Higinbotham

Physicist and video game designer
Born
October 25th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 84 years old

A physicist and video game designer, contributed to the development of the first interactive video game, 'Tennis for Two,' in 1958. The game utilized an analog computer and displayed graphics on an oscilloscope. Higinbotham worked at the Brookhaven National Laboratory and participated in projects related to nuclear physics and particle accelerator technology. Engagement in science education and public outreach was also a significant part of his career.

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