What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Cliff Barker

Basketball player, 1947 NBA Champion
Born
January 15th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 77 years old

Played professional basketball as a guard in the National Basketball Association. Contributed to the success of the New York Knicks during the late 1940s. Helped lead the Knicks to win the 1947 NBA Championship. Transitioned later to coaching and mentoring young athletes in the sport.

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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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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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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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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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Wendy O. Williams

Punk Rock Singer, The Plasmatics
Born
May 28th, 1949 76 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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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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Richard Hamming

Mathematician and computer scientist
Born
February 11th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 83 years old

An American mathematician and academic, contributed significantly to the fields of computer science and information theory. Developed the Hamming code, a method for error detection and correction in digital communications. Worked at Bell Labs and later at the Naval Postgraduate School. Authored numerous papers and the influential book 'The Art of Doing Science and Engineering'.

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Éric Tabarly

French yacht captain and sailor
Born
July 24th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent figure in the world of sailing, competed in various prestigious races, including the Whitbread Round the World Race. Led the French team to victory in the 1977 America's Cup. Developed innovative sailing techniques and designs that greatly influenced modern yacht construction. Established the École de Voile Tabarly to train future generations of sailors.

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