What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Jon Postel

Computer Scientist and Internet Pioneer
Born
August 6th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1998 26 years ago — 55 years old

Contributed extensively to the development of the Internet protocols. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Domain Name System (DNS) and the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). Served as editor for the Request for Comments (RFC) documents which helped define protocols for the Internet. His work laid foundational elements for the modern Internet and influenced many aspects of online communication.

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Hakim Said

Pakistani scholar and politician
Born
January 9th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1998 26 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent figure in Pakistan, served as the 20th Governor of Sindh. Contributed significantly to education and healthcare reforms. Established the Hamdard Foundation, promoting traditional medicine and education. Authored numerous books on medical and social issues.

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Joan Hickson

English actress most known for Miss Marple
Born
August 5th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1998 26 years ago — 92 years old

An English actress with a career spanning several decades. Gained prominence for portraying Miss Marple in the television adaptations of Agatha Christie's detective novels during the 1980s and 1990s. Appeared in various stage productions and films, showcasing a wide range of character roles. Received acclaim for performances in both the West End and on screen, establishing a strong presence in British theatre and television. Continued to work into her later years, earning respect and admiration from peers and audiences alike.

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Francis W. Sargent

American politician and soldier.
Born
July 29th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1998 26 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the 64th Governor of Massachusetts from 1969 to 1975. Prior military service included roles in the U.S. Army during World War II. Before governorship, held positions such as the Massachusetts Secretary of Environmental Affairs. Focused on environmental policies and public safety during time in office, promoting clean energy and conservation efforts.

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Barnett Slepian

Physician and abortion provider
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1998 26 years ago — 52 years old

Practiced medicine in New York and became a prominent figure in the abortion rights movement. Gained attention for providing reproductive health services in a politically charged environment. Established a community for women seeking safe abortion care. Tragically killed in 1998, which drew national attention to the ongoing debates regarding abortion access and reproductive rights.

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Eric Ambler

Novelist and screenwriter of thrillers
Born
June 28th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1998 26 years ago — 89 years old

An English author and screenwriter, this individual became recognized for contributions to the crime and thriller genres. Buchan's adventure novels influenced writing style and thematic elements in subsequent works. Received the Edgar Award for Best Novel for the book 'The Mask of Dimitrios' published in 1939, a hallmark of crime fiction. Adaptations of works into film further cemented a legacy in literature and cinema. Also contributed screenplays for several films during the 1950s and 1960s, showcasing versatility across different mediums of storytelling.

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Ted Hughes

English poet and playwright, best known for poetry
Born
August 17th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1998 26 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1930, a prominent English poet and playwright, contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. His work often explored themes of nature, mythology, and human experience. Served as Poet Laureate from 1984 until death in 1998. Authored numerous acclaimed poetry collections and plays, earning recognition for literary prowess. His most notable works include 'The Hawk in the Rain' and 'Crow', which demonstrated innovative use of language and imagery.

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Paul Misraki

Composer and music historian
Born
January 28th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1998 26 years ago — 90 years old

A composer and music historian with Turkish and French roots, contributed significantly to film scores and classical music. Worked on more than 150 films in France, producing memorable melodies and innovative compositions that enhanced cinematic storytelling. Additionally, engaged in music education and scholarly research, compiling a rich history of music that influenced future generations. Recognized for the fusion of classical music elements into contemporary compositions, paving the way for new musical explorations.

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Elmer Vasko

Canadian ice hockey player and defenseman
Born
December 11th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1998 26 years ago — 62 years old

A Canadian ice hockey player played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL). He competed primarily for the Chicago Blackhawks and later for the New York Rangers. During a professional career spanning over a decade, contributions included defensive play and team leadership. Played in the 1951 Memorial Cup with the Montreal Royals, achieving significant recognition for performance. Retired from the NHL in the early 1970s.

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