What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Jackie McGlew

Cricketer and South African Test player
Born
March 11th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 69 years old

A noted cricketer from South Africa, notable for contributions to the national team during the 1950s. Played as a left-handed batsman and also made a mark as a right-arm medium pace bowler. Made his Test debut against England in 1955 and represented South Africa in 24 Test matches. Achieved highest Test score of 211 against England in 1958, contributing significantly to the team's performance. Served as the captain of the national team in various series and played for provincial teams, including Western Province. Instrumental in the development of cricket in South Africa during a crucial era.

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Joseph Alioto

American politician and lawyer
Born
February 12th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 82 years old

Elected as the 36th Mayor of San Francisco from 1968 to 1976, focused on urban renewal and civil rights issues. Played a significant role in the development of the San Francisco International Airport and the construction of the Moscone Center. Advocated for a variety of social programs, aimed at improving the city’s infrastructure and housing conditions. Served on various municipal commissions after leaving office, continuing engagement in public service and civic affairs.

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Athol Rowan

South African cricketer and Test player
Born
February 7th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 77 years old

A cricketer represented South Africa in Test cricket during the 1940s and 1950s. Played in 16 Test matches, primarily in the opening batting position. Achieved a notable batting average and contributed as a key player in the South African squad during his era. Participated in the team's tour of England in 1947, which was significant in South African cricket history.

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John Tate

American professional boxer; Heavyweight champion
Born
January 29th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1955, a professional boxer competed in the heavyweight division during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Achieved significant recognition by winning the WBA heavyweight title in 1979. His boxing career was marked by matches against notable fighters of the era, contributing to a legacy in the sport. Faced various challenges both in and out of the ring during and after his boxing career, impacting his post-boxing life.

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Ruth Clifford

American actress in silent films
Born
February 17th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 98 years old

Began a film career in silent cinema, gradually transitioning to sound films. Featured in over 120 films from the 1910s to the 1940s, gaining recognition for roles in both comedies and dramas. Collaborated with notable studios such as Universal and Columbia Pictures. Later appeared in television series, including memorable performances in 'The Twilight Zone'.

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Weeb Ewbank

American football coach and player
Born
May 6th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in American football, Ewbank played as a quarterback at the University of Miami before embarking on a coaching career. He served as head coach for several teams, achieving significant success with the New York Jets, leading them to victory in Super Bowl III. Additionally, Ewbank coached the Baltimore Colts, contributing to their Championship win in 1958 and 1959. His coaching style emphasized strategic offensive plays, influencing future coaching methodologies within the sport.

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Russell Reeder

American soldier and author
Born
March 4th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 96 years old

Served as a soldier in the U.S. Army during World War II, participating in key military operations. Later authored works that reflected experiences in the military and insights gained from service. Contributed to veterans' literature and chronicled the challenges faced by returning soldiers.

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Laszlo Szabo

Hungarian Chess Player and Author
Born
March 19th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Hungary in 1917, a prominent chess player and author, gained recognition in the chess world in the mid-20th century. Achieved the title of International Grandmaster in 1950, a year after the title's inception. Contributed to chess literature with several instructional books, enhancing the knowledge of chess strategies among players. Regularly participated in international chess tournaments, representing Hungary in numerous competitions. His contributions to the game and his writings continue to influence aspiring chess players.

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María de la Purísima Salvat Romero

Roman Catholic nun; canonized saint
Born
February 20th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 72 years old

A Roman Catholic nun founded the Congregation of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception. Dedicated life to education and social service, establishing schools and welfare institutions. Emphasized the importance of faith and service to others. After passing away in 1996, was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 2016, recognizing contributions to the community and the life of faith.

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