What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Konstantinos Karamanlis

Greek politician, President of Greece
Born
March 8th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1998 27 years ago — 91 years old

A significant figure in Greek politics, served as Prime Minister and later as President of Greece. Founded the New Democracy party in 1974, promoting parliamentary democracy. Oversaw Greece's entry into the European Economic Community in 1981, enhancing Greece's international integration. Played a crucial role during Greece's transition from military junta to democracy.

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Wright Morris

American author and photographer
Born
January 6th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1998 27 years ago — 88 years old

Achieved recognition as a novelist and photographer. Authored several acclaimed novels that explored themes of life in the American Midwest. Utilized photography to complement literary work, creating a unique narrative style. Won the National Book Award for Fiction in 1981 for the novel 'The Field of Vision'. Integrated visual art into his storytelling, receiving attention for the interplay between prose and imagery.

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Browning Ross

American runner and soldier
Born
April 26th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1998 27 years ago — 74 years old

Browning Ross was a distance runner and soldier. Competed in the 1948 Summer Olympics in London, representing the United States in the 10,000 meters event. Served in the United States Army during World War II, participating in significant military campaigns. Earned respect in the running community as a successful competitor and contributor to the sport.

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Carlos Castaneda

Anthropologist and author of 'The Teachings of Don Juan'
Born
December 25th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1998 27 years ago — 72 years old

An anthropologist and author, this individual explored the world of shamanism and altered states of consciousness through the lens of anthropology. The work centered on the teachings received from a Yaqui Indian sorcerer named Don Juan Matus. The books combined personal narrative with anthropological insights, contributing to discussions about consciousness and perception. Several works were published, drawing both interest and criticism. The influence of these writings extended beyond academia, impacting popular culture and the New Age movement.

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Anne Desclos

French journalist and author of 'Story of O'
Born
September 23rd, 1907 117 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1998 27 years ago — 90 years old

A journalist and author, contributed significantly to erotic literature. Best recognized for the novel 'Story of O', which garnered attention for its controversial themes and narrative style. Worked as a journalist for various publications under pseudonyms, expressing views on sexuality and female empowerment through literature. The novel was published in 1954 and later adapted into films, enhancing its global reach and influence in discussions about eroticism and consent.

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Jerome Bixby

American author and screenwriter of sci-fi
Born
January 11th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1998 27 years ago — 75 years old

An influential author and screenwriter contributed significantly to science fiction through works in both film and literature. Wrote episodes for the original 'Star Trek' series, including the notable episode 'Mirror, Mirror'. Authored the short story 'It's a Good Life', adapted into an episode of 'The Twilight Zone'. Worked on the screenplay for 'Fantastic Voyage', which became a classic of the genre. His creative influences extended to the broader cultural landscape, impacting generations of sci-fi writers and fans.

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Nizar Qabbani

Syrian poet and diplomat celebrated for love
Born
March 21st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1998 27 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent Syrian poet, publisher, and diplomat, contributed significantly to Arabic literature. Published many volumes of poetry exploring themes of love, feminism, and social issues. Established the publishing house Qabbani & Sons, promoting literary works in the Arab world. Served as a diplomat in several countries, including Turkey and the UK, where exposure to different cultures influenced literary style. Regarded as a leading figure in modern Arabic poetry, both in terms of style and thematic exploration, with works being translated into various languages.

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Eldridge Cleaver

Author and civil rights activist
Born
August 31st, 1935 89 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1998 26 years ago — 62 years old

An influential figure in the Black Panther Party, dedicated efforts to advocate for civil rights and social justice. Wrote 'Soul on Ice', a collection of essays reflecting on race and identity in America. Actively engaged in activism during the civil rights movement, and was known for his outspoken views on issues affecting African Americans. His writings explored themes of oppression, identity, and the struggle for liberation.

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Justin Fashanu

Footballer and first openly gay player
Born
February 19th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1998 26 years ago — 37 years old

Played professional football primarily as a forward. Fashanu began his career at Norwich City, earning a reputation for his skill and agility on the pitch. He transferred to Nottingham Forest where he played under legendary manager Brian Clough. In the early 1990s, he became the first professional footballer in the UK to come out as gay, a notable milestone in sports history. His career included playing for various clubs across England and brief stints in the United States. Fashanu also represented the England U-21 team, gaining recognition for his talent at a young age.

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