What Happened This Year 1994

People Who Died in 1994

Lili Damita

Actress in 'The Sea Beast' and singer
Born
July 10th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1994 30 years ago — 89 years old

Born in France, Lili Damita gained prominence in the early 20th century as an actress and singer. She appeared in several films during the silent era and the transition to sound films. Damita starred in the 1926 film 'The Sea Beast' alongside John Barrymore and showcased her musical talents through various performances. In addition to her successful film career, she was recognized for her contributions to the arts, particularly in melodramatic and romantic roles. Later, she moved to the United States, where she continued her career in Hollywood, becoming a known figure in the film industry.

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Macdonald Carey

American actor in soap operas
Born
March 15th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1994 30 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1913, an American actor played a significant role in television history, particularly in the soap opera genre. Most recognized for portraying Dr. Tom Horton on the long-running series 'Days of Our Lives,' a role that began in 1965 and continued until 1994, establishing a legacy within daytime television. Prior to this, appeared in films during the 1940s and 1950s, earning a reputation for versatility in both drama and comedy. Contributed to the arts through stage performances and various guest roles in television series throughout the decades.

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Dan Hartman

Singer-songwriter and producer
Born
December 8th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1994 30 years ago — 43 years old

A prominent American singer-songwriter and producer, gained recognition in the 1970s and 1980s. Achieved commercial success with the hit single 'Free Ride' and the dance classic 'I Can Dream About You'. Worked extensively as a producer for various artists and contributed to the creation of several memorable tracks. His work spanned both rock and dance music, demonstrating versatility in composition and production skills. Passed away in 1994.

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Walter Lantz

Animator and creator of Woody Woodpecker
Born
April 27th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1994 30 years ago — 94 years old

An American animator, director, and producer, contributed significantly to the field of animation throughout the 20th century. Lantz established a successful production studio that produced popular animated shorts. Created the iconic character Woody Woodpecker, who became a staple in animated film and television. Lantz's work helped shape the landscape of American animation, moving from early silent shorts to synchronized sound cartoons, showcasing innovative techniques and storytelling.

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Luis Donaldo Colosio

Mexican politician and economist
Born
1950 75 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1994 30 years ago — 44 years old

An economist and politician, held the position of President of the Mexican Institute of Social Security. In 1994, won the nomination for the presidency under the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI). Advocated for political and economic reforms aimed at modernizing Mexico. His candidacy was cut short following an assassination on March 23, 1994, which led to significant political changes in the country.

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Giulietta Masina

Italian actress in cinema, known for 'La Strada'
Born
February 22nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1994 30 years ago — 73 years old

An influential figure in Italian cinema, her career spanned over five decades. Masina gained prominence for her collaborations with director Federico Fellini, where she often portrayed whimsical, vulnerable characters. Her breakthrough role came in the film 'La Strada' (1954), which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The performance showcased her exceptional emotional depth, leading to critical acclaim. Other significant works include 'Nights of Cabiria' (1957), which also won an Academy Award, and 'The Swindle' (1986). Throughout her career, Masina's performances were characterized by their poignancy and grace, earning her a distinctive place in the history of film.

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Bernard Kangro

Estonian poet and journalist
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1994 30 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent Estonian poet and journalist contributed significantly to Estonian literature during the 20th century. Began writing poetry in the 1920s and became associated with the literary movement advocating for Estonian identity. Lived through various historical events, including World War II and Soviet occupation, which influenced his work. Emigrated to Sweden in the late 1940s, where continued to write and publish poetry. His writings often explored themes of exile, identity, and the Estonian homeland.

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Angelines Fernández

Spanish-Mexican actress, 'La Chimolera'
Born
July 9th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1994 30 years ago — 71 years old

An actress, prominent in the Mexican film and television industry, starred in 'El Chavo del 8' as Doña Cleotilde, nicknamed 'La Chilindrina'. Participated in numerous telenovelas and films throughout the 20th century. Contributed to the enduring popularity of comedy in Mexican culture and became an icon for her role in classic children's programming. Continued to work until her passing in the mid-1990s, maintaining a loyal fan base.

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Max Petitpierre

Swiss jurist and politician, President
Born
February 26th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1994 30 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent jurist and politician served as the 54th President of the Swiss Confederation. Held various important positions within the Swiss government, influencing national policy and law. Contributed significantly to legal development in Switzerland and played a role in international diplomacy. Advocated for Swiss neutrality and the promotion of peace during challenging times. His legal expertise and political acumen earned him recognition within and beyond Switzerland.

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