What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Catherine Sauvage

Singer and Actress of French Chanson
Born
May 26th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent figure in French chanson, her career spanned several decades, captivating audiences with emotional performances. She became well-regarded for interpretations of the works of famous French songwriters. In addition to singing, her acting career included significant theatrical roles and film appearances. Her contribution to the arts left a lasting legacy in French music and theater.

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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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Giorgio Oberweger

Italian discus thrower and hurdler
Born
December 22nd, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 85 years old

Competed in athletics specializing in the discus throw and hurdles during the mid-20th century. Participated in the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, competing in the discus throw event. Achieved notable success in national competitions throughout Italy, contributing to the sport during a key period in its history.

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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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Gardner Dickinson

American golfer and Ryder Cup participant
Born
September 14th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent golfer in the mid-20th century, this individual participated in the PGA Tour and achieved significant success. Notable accomplishments include competing in multiple major championships and representing the United States in the Ryder Cup. The professional journey included wins at tournaments, contributing to a respected career within the golfing community. This golfer's skills and consistency on the course showcased talent and dedication to the sport, leaving a legacy appreciated by enthusiasts and players alike. Active primarily during the 1950s and 1960s, the impact on the game resonated through peers and future generations.

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Christiane Rochefort

French author of notable literature
Born
July 17th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1917, this French author wrote extensively throughout the 20th century. The literary career included contributions to novels, essays, and plays that often critiqued societal norms and explored themes of feminism and personal freedom. Works such as 'Les Petits Enfants du siècle' and 'L’Innocente' showcased innovative narrative styles and complex characters, earning recognition in literary circles. Her engagement in the cultural dialogue of her time positioned her among significant contemporary writers.

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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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Clara Rockmore

Classical violinist and theremin virtuoso
Born
March 9th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent violin prodigy, significant contributions were made to classical music through the theremin. Rockmore gained recognition in the 20th century for her performances and technical mastery of the instrument. Collaborations with composers and musicians, including Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copland, showcased her innovative playing style. She actively promoted the theremin, broadening its acceptance in concert settings. Numerous recordings highlight the unique tonal qualities of her theremin performances, leading to the establishment of the instrument as a serious musical entity.

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Gene Evans

Actor in 'The Steel Helmet'
Born
July 11th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 76 years old

An American actor, renowned for roles in film and television throughout the mid-20th century. Starred in the 1951 war film 'The Steel Helmet', a significant contribution to the genre of war cinema. Also appeared in various television series during the 1960s, including 'Have Gun – Will Travel' and 'The Twilight Zone'. Additionally, acted in Roger Corman's cult classic 'The Wild Angels' in 1966. Alongside a prolific acting career, contributed to the arts through multiple performances across various platforms.

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