What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Elena Garro

Mexican author and playwright
Born
December 11th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 82 years old

An influential figure in Mexican literature, contributed significantly to the narrative of magic realism. Wrote the novel "Los recuerdos del porvenir" which explores themes of politics and memory amidst the Mexican Revolution. Also recognized for plays such as "La casa junto al río". Garro's works often reflect her experiences with marginalization and her advocacy for women's rights in a patriarchal society.

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Bobo Brazil

Professional wrestler and actor
Born
July 10th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 74 years old

A significant figure in professional wrestling, greatly influenced the sport and opened doors for African American wrestlers. Started wrestling in the late 1940s, achieving notable success. Gained fame for matches in the National Wrestling Alliance and the World Wide Wrestling Federation. Also appeared in films and television series, contributing to the broader entertainment landscape.

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Bob Merrill

American composer and screenwriter
Born
May 17th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1921, this American composer and screenwriter was influential in the world of musical theater and film. Merrill wrote the music and lyrics for several popular Broadway shows, with 'Funny Girl' being one of the most celebrated, featuring the classic song 'People'. His work spanned several decades, contributing extensively to the landscape of musical entertainment. In addition to Broadway, he also wrote for films, creating songs that resonated with audiences and enhanced cinematic narratives.

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Ian Johnson

Australian cricketer and administrator
Born
December 8th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 81 years old

A cricketer and cricket administrator contributed significantly to Australian cricket. Played as a prominent all-rounder for the Victorian team during the 1940s and 1950s. Served as the captain of Australia in a few matches, in addition to being a part of the Test team. Transitioned into administration post-retirement, influencing cricket governance in Australia and later serving as Chairman of the Australian Cricket Board. Inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2007.

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Niklas Luhmann

Social theorist and systems thinker
Born
December 8th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in social theory, contributed significantly to systems theory and sociology. Developed a unique conceptual framework that analyzed social systems in a new light. Pioneered the use of autopoiesis in sociology, which explains how systems self-produce and maintain their complexity. His work has influenced various fields including sociology, organizational studies, and communication theory.

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Ricardo Tormo

Spanish motorcycle racer and champion
Born
September 7th, 1952 72 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 46 years old

Started racing motorcycles at a young age. Competed in the 250cc and 500cc classes in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing series. Won the 1978 250cc World Championship riding for the Honda team. Achieved multiple victories at the Spanish Grand Prix, establishing a strong presence in the sport during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Transitioned to automotive racing after retiring from motorcycles, participating in touring car events. His contributions to motorcycle racing have been recognized through various honors and accolades post-retirement.

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Jean-Claude Forest

French author and illustrator of comics
Born
September 11th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 68 years old

An author and illustrator created the comic series "Barbarella," first published in 1962. This work combined science fiction and eroticism, becoming a landmark title in adult comics. Forest's illustrations and storytelling style were influential in the comic industry, contributing to the rise of graphic novels. In addition to "Barbarella," other works included series such as "The Adventures of Cat's Eye." Forest's work was characterized by imaginative plots and detailed artwork, helping to shape the visual narrative in comics during his career.

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Jack Rowley

English footballer and manager
Born
October 7th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent English footballer and manager, played as a forward. Spent the majority of playing career at Manchester United from 1939 to 1954. Contributed significantly to the team's successes, including winning the FA Cup in 1948. Transitioned into management post-retirement, overseeing various clubs and focusing on player development.

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Shinichi Suzuki

Violinist and music educator
Born
October 17th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 100 years old

A violinist and educator from Japan established the Suzuki method of teaching music, which emphasizes listening and parental involvement. This approach revolutionized music education, allowing children to learn instruments in a similar manner to language acquisition. Founded the Suzuki Association of the Americas and contributed to the international spread of the method. Played a significant role in promoting music education globally, influencing both teaching practices and curricula.

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