What Happened This Year 1998

Historical Events from This Year 1998 (View all 121)

Science & Technology

Juan Maldacena Proposes AdS/CFT Correspondence

January 1st, 1998 27 years ago

Juan Maldacena, an Argentinian physicist, published a groundbreaking paper linking string theory to quantum gravity through the AdS/CFT correspondence. This theory suggests a relationship between gravitational theories in Anti-de Sitter space and conformal field theories defined on the boundary of that space. His work has initiated significant advancements in theoretical physics, impacting our understanding of black holes and quantum field theories.

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Economics & Industry

Russia Introduces New Rubles Amid Inflation Crisis

January 1st, 1998 27 years ago

In an effort to combat rampant inflation and restore public confidence in the nation’s currency, Russia began circulating a new ruble on January 1, 1998. This reform replaced the old rubles at a rate of 1 new ruble to 1,000 old rubles. The government hoped that this move would stabilize the economy by simplifying transactions and enhancing trust among citizens. The introduction of the new currency was accompanied by educational campaigns to inform the public about the change and its implications for everyday life, aiming to smooth the transition.

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Natural Disasters

Devastating Ice Storm Strikes Eastern Canada

January 4th, 1998 27 years ago

A severe ice storm swept through eastern Canada and the northeastern United States, causing extensive damage and power outages. This winter storm brought significant ice accumulation, resulting in downed trees and power lines. Major cities including Montreal and Ottawa experienced a drastic impact, leading to cities being heavily affected by the storm. The event persisted for several days, with recovery efforts hampered by icy conditions, leaving thousands without electricity and essential services.

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Crime & Law

Massacre Claims Over 100 Lives in Algeria

January 11th, 1998 27 years ago

In a gruesome incident in the village of Sidi-Hamed, Algeria, over 100 people were killed by armed attackers. The massacre occurred during a time of intense violence in the country, largely attributed to the civil war between the Algerian government and Islamist insurgents. This tragic event escalated fears among local populations as it underscored the brutality of the conflict, which had already taken a heavy toll on communities throughout Algeria.

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Science & Technology

European Agreement to Ban Human Cloning

January 12th, 1998 27 years ago

Nineteen European nations reached a significant agreement to prohibit human cloning, motivated by ethical concerns surrounding genetic manipulation. The discussions were held during an international conference, highlighting a collective commitment to human dignity. This landmark decision signified a unified stance on bioethical standards in light of rapid advancements in genetic research and cloning technology.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Alfredo Ormando's Protest Against Homophobia

January 13th, 1998 27 years ago

Alfredo Ormando, an Italian gay rights activist, set himself on fire in St. Peter's Square in Vatican City as a protest against homophobia and the Catholic Church's stance on homosexuality. This tragic act was intended to draw attention to the discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly from religious institutions. Ormando's protest occurred in a location rich in religious significance, amplifying the message of his plight as an LGBTQ+ individual in a society where his identity was marginalized.

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Born in 1998 (View all 241)

Enock Mwepu

Zambian footballer, Brighton & Hove Albion
Born
January 1st, 1998 27 years ago

A Zambian footballer made significant contributions as a midfielder in international competitions and club football. Played for the national team, participating in the Africa Cup of Nations. At club level, joined Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League, contributing to the team's midfield dynamics. His career also included a stint at Red Bull Salzburg in Austria, where he won multiple league titles. A noted youth international, Mwepu represented Zambia in various age categories before making his senior debut. Injuries ultimately led to his retirement from professional football.

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Cristina Bucșa

Tennis player with significant tournament wins
Born
January 1st, 1998 27 years ago

Born in Moldova, Bucșa started playing tennis at a young age and developed into a professional athlete representing Spain. Competing primarily on the WTA Tour, garnered attention through performances in singles and doubles matches. Achieved notable success in various international tournaments, securing ranking points and experience on clay and hard courts. Bucșa's progress in the sport included participation in Grand Slam events, advancing her career on the international tennis stage. The dedication to training and competition continued to evolve skills and techniques critical for professional play.

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Timothy Fosu-Mensah

Dutch footballer with Premier League experience
Born
January 2nd, 1998 27 years ago

Started football career at Ajax before joining Manchester United's youth academy in 2014. Made his first-team debut in 2016 against Arsenal in the Premier League. Had loan spells at Crystal Palace and Fulham, contributing to team play in the top divisions of English football. Transferred to Bayer Leverkusen in 2021, furthering career in the Bundesliga.

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Tfue

Popular online gamer and streamer
Born
January 2nd, 1998 27 years ago

An American online streamer and professional gamer, gained prominence through competitive gaming and live streaming. Focused primarily on Fortnite, achieved rapid growth in viewer base on platforms like Twitch and YouTube. Known for high-level gameplay and engaging personality, attracted millions of followers and set several records for viewership. Competed in various esports tournaments, showcasing skills in battle royale games.

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Patrick Cutrone

Italian footballer with AC Milan
Born
January 3rd, 1998 27 years ago

A professional footballer, gained recognition in the Serie A with AC Milan. Started his youth career at AC Milan and progressed through the ranks to the first team. Made his debut for AC Milan in 2017, scoring multiple goals in important matches. Later played for clubs in the English Championship and the Serie A. Featured in international competitions representing Italy at various youth levels.

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Emiru

American online streamer and content creator
Born
January 3rd, 1998 27 years ago

An online streamer gained popularity through gameplay, primarily in League of Legends. Streamed on platforms like Twitch, attracting a large following due to engaging content and interactive community involvement. Developed a substantial presence on social media, further expanding influence in the gaming community.

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People Who Died in 1998 (View all 362)

Ferdinand Porsche

Automotive engineer and founder of Porsche
Born
September 19th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1951 74 years ago — 41 years old

An engineer and businessman, contributed significantly to automotive design and technology. Founded Porsche in 1931, creating innovative vehicles. Designed the Volkswagen Beetle, one of the best-selling cars in history. Developed the Porsche 356, which established the brand's identity and success in sports cars. Focused on engineering excellence and performance in automotive development.

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Helen Wills

Tennis player and coach, 7-time Wimbledon champion
Born
October 6th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1998 27 years ago — 92 years old

A significant tennis player and coach, this individual won a total of 31 Grand Slam titles, including 7 Wimbledon championships and 4 U.S. National Championships. Dominating the sport in the early 20th century, this person was an influential figure in tennis, known for remarkable skill and technique on the court. After a successful playing career, transitioned into coaching, contributing to the development of future generations of tennis players.

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Mae Questel

Voice actress and comedian
Born
September 13th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1998 27 years ago — 89 years old

An American voice actress and comedian, contributed significantly to animation and voice work. Gained recognition for voicing iconic characters in several popular animated series and films. The character Betty Boop was brought to life through her unique vocal style and personality, which defined the character's charm. Also voiced Olive Oyl in the Popeye cartoons, further solidifying a legacy in animation history. Continued to perform and engage with audiences throughout her career, showcasing talent in various entertainment mediums.

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Sonny Bono

Singer-songwriter and politician
Born
February 16th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1998 27 years ago — 62 years old

A singer-songwriter and producer, achieved fame as half of the duo Sonny and Cher. The duo's hit 'I Got You Babe' topped charts in the 1960s. Transitioned into acting, appearing in the television show 'The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour'. Later, entered politics, serving as the mayor of Palm Springs, California, and as a U.S. Congressman. Contributed to various local and national initiatives during congressional tenure.

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Vladimir Prelog

Nobel Prize-winning chemist
Born
July 23rd, 1906 118 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1998 27 years ago — 91 years old

A chemist and academic with contributions to organic chemistry. His research focused on stereochemistry and the understanding of chemical reactions. Prelog received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1975 for his work on the stereochemistry of molecules, particularly in the realm of natural products. He spent significant portions of his career in both Croatia and Switzerland, where he was influential in the academic community and contributed to scientific education and research. His legacy continues to influence the field of chemistry.

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Michael Tippett

English composer and conductor
Born
January 2nd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1998 27 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1905, Tippett contributed significantly to 20th-century music through both composition and conducting. He studied at the Royal College of Music and began to establish his reputation with the opera 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' in 1960. Tippett's compositions encompass a range of genres, including orchestral, chamber, and vocal works. He served as conductor for various esteemed orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. His works often reflect intense personal and social themes, resonating deeply with audiences in Britain and beyond.

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