What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Frank Barrett

American baseball player, MLB pitcher
Born
July 1st, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1998 27 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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Kenny Kirkland

American jazz pianist and educator
Born
September 28th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 43 years old

Significant contributions were made to the jazz genre as a pianist and educator. Early career included playing with notable artists such as Wynton Marsalis and Wayne Shorter. Worked extensively as a session musician and collaborated on numerous projects involving acclaimed jazz musicians. Known for performances at major jazz festivals and institutions.

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Maurice Bardèche

French journalist and author
Born
October 1st, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1998 27 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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Bob Kane

Comic book creator and illustrator of Batman
Born
October 24th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 83 years old

An American author and illustrator co-created the iconic comic book character Batman in 1939. The character first appeared in Detective Comics #27, leading to the establishment of a significant franchise in comic books, television, and film. Contributed to the Golden Age of Comic Books, significantly influencing the superhero genre. Also worked on other characters and stories in the DC Comics universe and was credited with numerous comic book covers throughout his career.

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Johnny Speight

Screenwriter and producer of sitcoms
Born
June 2nd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
1998 27 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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Dieter Roth

German-Swiss illustrator and sculptor
Born
April 21st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
1998 27 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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Adem Jashari

Kosovan commander during the conflict
Born
November 28th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 43 years old

Commanded the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) during the late 1990s, advocating for the rights of ethnic Albanians in Kosovo. Became a central figure in the resistance against Serbian forces. Jashari's leadership positioned him as a symbol of the struggle for independence. Died in a confrontation with Serbian police in 1998, solidifying his legacy as a martyr for Kosovo's sovereignty.

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Jonathan Mann

Physician and author of public health research
Born
July 30th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 51 years old

Contributed significantly to global health discourse, focusing on the intersection of health, human rights, and social justice. Led the World Health Organization's Global Programme on AIDS in the 1980s, advocating for the rights of individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. Established the François-Xavier Bagnoud Center for Health and Human Rights at Harvard University, which combines health care, education, and advocacy efforts. Authored critical works addressing public health challenges and the ethical implications involved in healthcare systems.

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Michael Craze

British actor known for Doctor Who
Born
November 29th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 56 years old

An actor active in television and film, recognized for roles in series from the 1960s. Gained prominence for portraying Ben Jackson in the long-running series Doctor Who, appearing alongside various incarnations of the Doctor. Contributed to the British television landscape during a vibrant period for the medium, taking part in performances that captured diverse audiences. Beyond Doctor Who, featured in other television productions, showcasing a range of acting skills.

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