What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Bill Cratty

Dancer and choreographer, Broadway's original.
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1998 26 years ago — 47 years old

Contributed to the world of dance and choreography through direction and performance. Worked extensively in musical theater, creating innovative choreography that shaped productions. Collaborated with various artists and productions, significantly influencing American dance.

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Dane Clark

American film and television actor
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1998 26 years ago — 86 years old

Acted in numerous films and television series throughout a career spanning several decades. Gained recognition for performances in movies such as 'Pride of the Marines' and 'The Caine Mutiny'. Made guest appearances on popular TV shows including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Untouchables'. Worked with prominent directors and co-starred alongside notable actors during a prolific period in the mid-20th century.

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George Wallace

American politician, 45th Governor of Alabama
Born
August 25th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1998 26 years ago — 79 years old

Served as Governor of Alabama across four non-consecutive terms. Promoted a platform of segregation and states' rights during the civil rights movement. Gained national attention for a speech at the University of Alabama in 1963, where he stood in opposition to federal desegregation efforts. After a failed presidential campaign in 1972, continued to serve in Alabama politics and made efforts to reshape his image and policies in later years.

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Yang Shangkun

Chinese politician and 4th President
Born
August 3rd, 1907 117 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1998 26 years ago — 91 years old

Served as the 4th President of China from 1988 to 1993. He held several key positions within the Chinese government and the Chinese Communist Party. Prior to the presidency, served as Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress. Played a significant role during the reform period in China, focusing on modernization and economic reforms. His leadership accompanied the continued enforcement of party control during times of political unrest.

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Louis Rasminsky

Canadian economist and banker
Born
February 1st, 1908 117 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1998 26 years ago — 90 years old

An influential economist and banker in Canada, contributed to the development of monetary policy and financial institutions. Served as the Governor of the Bank of Canada from 1961 to 1973. Played a key role in shaping Canada’s economic landscape during a period of significant change and growth in the global economy. Engaged in numerous efforts to stabilize the Canadian dollar and control inflation. Participated in various international economic forums, promoting Canada's interests on the global stage.

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Geoffrey Dutton

Australian historian and author
Born
August 2nd, 1922 102 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1998 26 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1922, a prominent historian and author in Australia. Focused on Australian history, literature, and biographies. Authored several significant works, including studies on notable historical figures and social commentary. Contributed to understanding of cultural narratives within Australia through literary critiques and historical analysis. Influenced scholarly approaches to Australian identity and culture, promoting discourse in academic and public spheres.

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Ted Binion

Poker player and Las Vegas businessman
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1998 26 years ago — 55 years old

A poker player and businessman engaged in casino operations in Las Vegas, gained prominence in the gambling community. Became a well-known figure in high-stakes poker tournaments. Established a successful business in the gaming industry and was involved in various real estate ventures. His life drew public attention not only for his gambling but also for his later controversies, including his untimely death under suspicious circumstances.

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Patricia Hayes

English actress known for 'The Ladykillers'
Born
December 22nd, 1909 115 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1998 26 years ago — 88 years old

An English actress, prominent in film and television, had a career spanning several decades. Significant work includes performances in classic films and television series. Gained acclaim for roles in 'The Ladykillers' and 'The Goon Show'. Achieved recognition for distinctive character portrayals and her work on stage and screen during the mid-20th century.

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Florence Griffith Joyner

Track and field athlete, Olympic champion
Born
December 21st, 1959 65 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1998 26 years ago — 38 years old

Achieved prominence as a track and field athlete, particularly in sprinting events. Excelled in the 1988 Summer Olympics held in Seoul, South Korea, securing three gold medals in the 100 meters, 200 meters, and 4x100 meter relay. Set world records in both the 100 meters and 200 meters that remain unmatched. Known for distinctive style on the track and her competitive spirit. Also engaged in television as a personality and actress following her athletic career.

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