What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Arkady Shevchenko

Ukrainian diplomat and defector
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
February 28th, 1998 27 years ago — 68 years old

Served as a high-ranking diplomat in the Soviet Union, specializing in international relations. Defected to the West in 1978, seeking asylum in the United States during the Cold War. Worked at the United Nations, advocating for Soviet policies while secretly reporting to Western intelligence agencies. Authored the book "Breaking with Moscow," providing insights into the inner workings of Soviet diplomacy and politics. Contributed to discussions on Eastern European affairs and served as a lecturer in diplomacy.

Continue Reading

Archie Goodwin

American author and illustrator
Born
September 8th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1998 27 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent author and illustrator specialized in comic books and crime fiction. Developed the character Nero Wolfe, a detective known for his intellect and distinctive lifestyle. The stories featuring Nero Wolfe were published in numerous novels and short stories throughout the mid-20th century and continue to influence detective fiction today. Contributed significantly to the genre of crime literature through innovative storytelling techniques.

Continue Reading

Fred W. Friendly

Journalist and broadcaster for CBS News
Born
October 30th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1998 27 years ago — 82 years old

Worked in journalism and broadcasting, contributing significantly to the field of television news. Played a crucial role at CBS News as a producer for programs such as 'See It Now' and 'Face the Nation.' Focused on investigative reporting and brought critical issues to public attention during the 1950s and 1960s. Later served as President of PBS, promoting educational programming.

Continue Reading

Ivan Dougherty

Australian general
Born
1907 118 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1998 27 years ago — 91 years old

Served as a significant figure in the Australian Army, contributing during various conflicts. Played a key role in military operations throughout World War II and later in the Korean War. Held several senior leadership positions and was involved in post-war reorganizations of the Australian Defense Force.

Continue Reading

Ray Nitschke

Professional American football linebacker
Born
December 29th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1998 27 years ago — 61 years old

A linebacker, achieved prominence in professional American football during the 1960s and 1970s. Played for the Green Bay Packers from 1958 to 1972. Contributed significantly to the team's success in winning the first two Super Bowls, Super Bowl I and Super Bowl II. Renowned for aggressive playing style and leadership on the field. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978.

Continue Reading

Lloyd Bridges

American actor in 'Sea Hunt'
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1998 27 years ago — 85 years old

An American actor and director, Bridges became prominent in television and film from the 1940s through the 1990s. Gained considerable recognition for starring in the television series 'Sea Hunt', which aired from 1958 to 1961. Also appeared in films including 'Airplane!' and 'Hot Shots!', showcasing a talent for both drama and comedy. Directed several television episodes and movies, contributing to a lengthy career spanning over five decades.

Continue Reading

Beatrice Wood

Illustrator and potter, The Mother of Dada
Born
March 3rd, 1893 132 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1998 27 years ago — 105 years old

Born in 1893, an American illustrator and potter attained recognition as a prominent figure in the Dada art movement. Wood was actively involved in avant-garde circles, producing ceramics that combined artistic expression with utility. Her work showcased a unique style that merged traditional pottery techniques with experimental form and color. In addition to her pottery, Wood illustrated books and created works that reflected her association with Dadaism. She continued to create and display her art well into her later years, influencing both contemporaries and future generations of artists.

Continue Reading

Hans von Ohain

Physicist and engineer of jet propulsion
Born
December 14th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1998 27 years ago — 86 years old

A German-American physicist and engineer primarily associated with the development of the turbojet engine. Contributions to aviation technology included designing the world's first operational turbojet engine, which powered the Heinkel He 178, the first jet-powered aircraft to fly successfully in 1939. After World War II, immigration to the United States led to further research and development in aerospace technology, including work for major corporations such as North American Aviation and NASA. He held more than 60 patents in the field of propulsion systems.

Continue Reading

Judge Dread

English reggae singer-songwriter
Born
May 2nd, 1945 79 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1998 27 years ago — 52 years old

A reggae singer-songwriter known for creating music that blends humorous lyrics with reggae rhythms. rose to prominence in the 1970s with several chart-topping hits. Gained popularity for unique vocal style and themes that often included double entendres. Achieved notable success in the UK music scene and became one of the few artists to secure a UK chart hit with reggae music during this period.

Continue Reading