What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Bill Tuttle

Baseball player and outfielder
Born
July 4th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 69 years old

Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1952 with the Detroit Tigers. Played as an outfielder for several teams during the 1950s and 1960s, including the Kansas City Athletics and the Chicago White Sox. Contributed to the Tigers' 1955 American League pennant victory. Finished his playing career with a .250 batting average over eleven seasons, noted for his defensive skills and speed on the field.

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Julia Boyer Reinstein

American teacher and historian
Born
November 3rd, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 92 years old

Significant contributions to education, especially in history, occurred throughout a lengthy career. Reinstein served as a teacher and was actively involved in historical preservation efforts. Several published works focused on local history and educational methodologies aimed at enhancing history curriculums. Advocacy for history education led to improvements in teaching practices and increased awareness about the importance of historical scholarship in academic settings.

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Poul Bundgaard

Danish actor and singer, starred in 'Olsen-banden'
Born
October 27th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1922, this Danish actor and singer gained prominence in the 1960s through a leading role in the 'Olsen-banden' film series. The series, which included over a dozen films, became a cultural icon in Denmark. Apart from his film success, contributions to Danish theater showcased his range as a performer. His work in both film and stage highlighted a remarkable career that spanned decades until retirement.

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Roy Benavidez

Medal of Honor recipient, soldier
Born
August 5th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 63 years old

Served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Demonstrated extraordinary heroism in 1968 while rescuing fellow soldiers during a combat mission. Participated in a rescue operation that involved engaging enemy forces and rendered medical assistance despite sustaining multiple injuries. Received the Medal of Honor in 1981 for these actions, recognizing remarkable bravery and commitment to duty.

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Damita Jo DeBlanc

Comedian, actress, and singer
Born
August 5th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1930, a successful comedian, actress, and singer emerged as a significant figure in American entertainment. Started in comedy clubs and earned recognition through television appearances. Starred in the television comedy series, "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In," where notable sketches showcased unique humor. Recorded multiple albums that highlighted singing talent, blending comedic elements with musical performance. Made guest appearances on various talk shows, further solidifying a presence in the entertainment industry. Continued performing into later years, maintaining an active career in comedy and music.

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W. Allen Wallis

American economist and statistician
Born
November 5th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 86 years old

Wallis contributed significantly to the fields of economics and statistics. He served as the Chief Economist for the U.S. Army during World War II and later held positions in academia, including at the University of Chicago and the University of Rochester. Wallis was a pioneer in the development of econometrics and the application of statistical methods to economic problems. His research included work on consumer behavior, and he published numerous articles and books throughout his career. Wallis was an active participant in the establishment of the National Bureau of Economic Research.

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Bing Xin

Chinese author and poet of children's literature
Born
October 5th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 98 years old

An influential figure in Chinese literature, contributions focused primarily on children's literature. The work included poetry, novels, and essays, often emphasizing themes of love, innocence, and enlightenment. Worked in various literary forms to engage young readers, making literature accessible and appealing to children. Engaged in educational reform, promoting children's education and emotional development through literature. Authored several acclaimed collections and stories that remain significant in Chinese literary circles.

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Lia Manoliu

Disciple thrower and Romanian politician
Born
April 25th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 66 years old

Competed in discus throw events, winning three Olympic medals. Secured silver in the 1960 Rome Olympics and bronze in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, alongside a gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. Held the world record in discus throw during the 1950s. Transitioned into politics, serving as a member of Romania's Parliament and advocating for sports policies.

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Harry Caray

Sportscaster and Chicago Cubs voice
Born
March 1st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1998 27 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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