What Happened This Year 1994

People Who Died in 1994

Jersey Joe Walcott

Boxer and heavyweight champion
Born
January 31st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1914, a notable American boxer became the heavyweight champion of the world in 1951 after defeating Ezzard Charles. Walcott's boxing style combined clever footwork and tactical skills, leading to a successful career in the ring. Prior to boxing, worked as a police officer. His tenacity and dedication to the sport earned him recognition as one of the greats in heavyweight boxing history.

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Innokenty Smoktunovsky

Russian actor in film and theater
Born
March 28th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 69 years old

Significant contributions to Russian cinema and theater were made through performances in prominent films and plays. Gained recognition for the role of Hamlet in the Russian version of Shakespeare's play, delivering a celebrated interpretation of the character. Also portrayed key roles in films such as 'Andrei Rublev' directed by Andrei Tarkovsky and 'The Straw Hat'. Regarded as a master of both comedic and dramatic roles, with a notable presence in theatrical performances throughout the Soviet Union.

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Jack Cowie

Cricketer for New Zealand national team
Born
March 30th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent cricketer represented New Zealand from 1932 to 1947. Played as a skilled fast bowler and a capable lower-order batsman. Participated in the inaugural Test match for New Zealand against England in 1930. Achieved notable success in domestic cricket, primarily with Wellington. Contributed to the development of cricket in New Zealand during its early years on the international stage.

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Hugh Tayfield

South African cricketer and spinner
Born
January 30th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent cricketer, played as a slow left-arm orthodox spinner for South Africa during the 1950s and 1960s. Made a significant impact on the game with his wicket-taking abilities and consistency on the field. Participated in 37 Test matches, achieving substantial success against various international teams. In addition to his bowling prowess, contributed with bat lower in the order.

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Clara Breed

American librarian and wartime activist
Born
March 19th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 88 years old

Served as a librarian in San Diego, California. Advocated for Japanese American families during World War II. Provided support and resources to incarcerated individuals in camps. Organized book drives and distributed books to detainees. Worked to preserve the history and culture of Japanese Americans.

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J. C. Tremblay

Ice hockey player and scout
Born
January 22nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 55 years old

Played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Montreal Canadiens from 1959 to 1970. Contributed to the team's success during the 1965 and 1966 Stanley Cup championships. Transitioned to a scouting role after retirement, where evaluation of young talents in ice hockey became a focus. Involved in various coaching roles and influenced the development of future players.

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E. W. Swackhamer

Television and film director and producer
Born
January 17th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 67 years old

Directed various television series during the 1970s and 1980s. Contributed to the production of multiple telefilms, including significant works for networks such as CBS and NBC. Associated with directing episodes of popular series such as 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Mod Squad'. Involved in various television productions that received critical acclaim.

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Joe Pass

Renowned American jazz guitarist and composer
Born
January 13th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 65 years old

An influential guitarist and composer, contributed significantly to jazz music. Gained prominence in the 1970s, known for solo guitar performances and unique improvisational style. Released numerous albums, including 'Virtuoso' which showcased exceptional technical skill and artistry. Collaborated with various notable musicians, enriching the jazz genre through innovative approaches. Received multiple awards, including Grammys for exceptional work in music.

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Alain Daniélou

Historian and author of Indian culture
Born
October 4th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1907, a historian and academic dedicated to the study of Indian culture and classical music. Spent significant time in India, immersing in its philosophies and traditions. Published extensively on the subjects of Hinduism, Indian music, and philosophy. Integrated insights from various cultures into works that explored the intersection of Western and Eastern thought.

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