What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Wendy O. Williams

Punk Rock Singer, The Plasmatics
Born
May 28th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent figure in the punk rock scene, an American singer-songwriter and musician gained fame as the lead vocalist of the band The Plasmatics. The band was known for its theatrical performances and groundbreaking fusion of punk and heavy metal music. Williams' onstage persona included provocative costumes and outrageous stunts, which garnered significant attention. In addition to her music career, she also pursued acting, appearing in films such as 'Reb Brown's 'Get Crazy' and the documentary 'The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years'. Williams' unique contributions to both music and performance art have left a lasting legacy in the punk rock genre.

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Helen Carter

American singer and musician
Born
September 19th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 71 years old

Carter was a prominent American singer and musician, recognized for her work in the country music genre. As a member of the renowned Carter Family, she contributed to the preservation and popularization of traditional folk music. Her career spanned several decades during which she performed extensively and recorded numerous albums. The Carter Family is credited with influencing the development of country music in America. She often appeared on various radio and television shows, further solidifying her place in the music industry.

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Hans van Abeelen

Dutch Geneticist specializing in genetics
Born
November 20th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent geneticist contributed extensively to the field of genetics. Significant research focused on human genetic variation and its implications for health and disease. Published numerous scientific papers and articles that advanced understanding of genetic inheritance and population genetics. Served as a professor and held various academic positions at Dutch universities, influencing future generations of geneticists.

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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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Lúcio Costa

Architect who designed Gustavo Capanema Palace
Born
February 27th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1902, this French-Brazilian architect and engineer played a significant role in the modernist architecture movement in Brazil. The architect is celebrated for designing the Gustavo Capanema Palace, a defining example of modernist architecture in the country. His work stands out for its integration of Brazilian culture and nature within architectural design. Additionally, he was involved in urban planning and contributed to various educational and cultural projects throughout his career. His innovative approach left a lasting legacy in the field of architecture.

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Fred Alderman

American sprinter, Olympic medalist
Born
June 24th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1905, this athlete specialized in sprinting events. Competed primarily in the 100 meters and 200 meters. Achieved notable success at the 1924 Summer Olympics, earning a silver medal in the 4x100 meter relay. Represented the United States in international competitions and became a prominent figure in American track and field during the early 20th century.

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Rolf Botvid

Swedish actor and screenwriter
Born
December 26th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Sweden in 1915, a prominent actor and screenwriter emerged in the film industry. This individual gained recognition for performances in the 1950 films 'Kopps' and 'Kungen av Dalarna'. Contributions to Swedish cinema extended beyond acting, as writing and directing played significant roles in a career spanning several decades. Work within Scandinavian film contributed to the narrative and technical development of local cinema, highlighting various social themes and character studies. This figure's influence persisted until death in 1998.

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Carl Wilson

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
December 21st, 1946 78 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 52 years old

Instruments played included guitar and vocals. Co-founded the Beach Boys, a group that significantly influenced the rock music genre. Contributed to numerous albums, including 'Pet Sounds' and 'Surf's Up.' Worked as a producer and collaborated with various artists throughout a career spanning several decades. Faced health challenges yet continued to perform until the end of life.

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Shirley Ardell Mason

Psychiatric patient and author
Born
January 25th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 75 years old

A psychiatric patient underwent treatment for dissociative identity disorder and authored a book that detailed the experience. The book, 'Sybil', published in 1973, outlined the development of multiple personalities as a coping mechanism for childhood trauma. The case drew significant attention to the condition and contributed to discussions regarding mental health and treatment methods. The story was later adapted into a film and a television miniseries, further increasing public awareness of psychological issues.

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