What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Harry Caray

Sportscaster and Chicago Cubs voice
Born
March 1st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent sportscaster, recognized for the distinctive voice and energetic style. Began career in radio and transitioned to television, gaining notoriety as the voice of the Chicago Cubs. Played a vital role in popularizing baseball commentary, especially through engaging broadcasts that resonated with fans. Won the Ford Frick Award from the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1989 for excellence in baseball broadcasting.

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Dieter Roth

German-Swiss illustrator and sculptor
Born
April 21st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 68 years old

An illustrator and sculptor contributed significantly to contemporary art through innovative works blending various media. Pioneered the use of unconventional materials, producing a unique fusion of visual art and literature. Created the notable artist's book series, which showcased an intersection of typography and illustration. Engaged in collaborations across art forms, leaving a lasting impact on book arts and installations.

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Johnny Speight

Screenwriter and producer of sitcoms
Born
June 2nd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 78 years old

Worked predominantly in British television, creating and writing sitcoms. Developed the series 'Till Death Us Do Part', which focused on themes of social class and prejudice, gaining significant attention. Contributed to 'In Sickness and in Health', a continuation of the earlier series featuring the same characters. Played a role in addressing social issues through humor.

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Maurice Bardèche

French journalist and author
Born
October 1st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 91 years old

A French journalist, author, and critic, engaged in political and cultural discourse during the mid-20th century. Contributed significantly to literary and political criticism, often aligning with controversial ideologies. Wrote several works on art and literature, including a notable essay on the intricacies of Polish literature. Instrumental in promoting right-wing thought through journalism and publications.

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Frank Barrett

American baseball player, MLB pitcher
Born
July 1st, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 85 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1938 to 1946. Played for the Cincinnati Reds and the Philadelphia Phillies. Achieved a career record of 29 wins and 41 losses with an earned run average of 4.63 over his MLB career. Participated in the 1944 season with the Philadelphia Phillies, contributing to the team during this period.

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Nguyễn Văn Linh

Vietnamese politician and reform leader
Born
July 1st, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 83 years old

A significant figure in Vietnam's political landscape, this individual played a crucial role in the country's transition towards a market economy, often referred to as 'Doi Moi' or Renovation. This policy reform initiated in the late 1980s shifted economic focus from strict central planning to a more market-oriented approach. The individual served as General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam from 1986 to 1991, overseeing major economic and political changes during a transformative period in Vietnamese history. Through these reforms, Vietnam gradually integrated into the global economy while maintaining its socialist principles.

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David Bairstow

English cricketer and sportscaster
Born
September 1st, 1951 74 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 47 years old

Played first-class cricket for Yorkshire from 1970 to 1984, serving as wicketkeeper and batsman. Made his Test debut for England in 1975 and accumulated 39 Test caps until 1984. Transitioned to sports broadcasting and contributed to various media outlets, sharing insights on cricket. Authored works reflecting on the sport and his experiences.

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Gottfried Dienst

Swiss football referee and player
Born
September 9th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 79 years old

An accomplished football referee and player, officiated in major international tournaments. Played for FC Basel and served as a referee in FIFA World Cup matches. Recognized for contributions to the sport in both playing and officiating capacities. Refereed at the 1966 FIFA World Cup.

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Klaus Tennstedt

Conductor and orchestral leader
Born
June 6th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 72 years old

Born in Germany in 1926, a prominent conductor gained recognition for interpretations of classical repertoire. Worked extensively with major orchestras, including the London Philharmonic and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Held the position of principal conductor of the NDR Symphony Orchestra in Hamburg, enhancing its global reputation. Conducted notable performances at prestigious venues, showcasing a deep understanding of the scores and an ability to communicate with the musicians effectively. Successes included conducting the complete symphonies of Mahler and Bruckner, which received acclaim from critics and audiences alike.

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