What Happened This Year 1999

People Who Died in 1999

Lucille Lortel

Theatrical producer and artistic director
Born
December 16th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1999 25 years ago — 98 years old

An influential figure in American theater, this individual co-founded the White Barn Theatre in 1947 and established the Lucille Lortel Theatre in New York City. As an artistic director and producer, extensive contributions included creating a platform for off-Broadway productions. Leadership in the complex landscape of theater fostered numerous renowned plays, many of which received critical acclaim. Recognized for commitment to innovative storytelling and support for emerging playwrights, achievements included numerous awards in recognition of artistic excellence.

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Early Wynn

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
January 6th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1999 25 years ago — 79 years old

A professional baseball player, coach, and sportscaster. Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball for the Cleveland Indians, Chicago White Sox, and Washington Senators. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972. Known for a successful career spanning 23 seasons, achieving over 300 career wins. Transitioned into broadcasting after retirement, providing commentary for baseball games.

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Giulio Einaudi

Italian book publisher and editor
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1999 25 years ago — 87 years old

Established a publishing house that became influential in Italian literature. Founded Einaudi publishing in 1933, which published works of notable authors and intellectuals. Promoted a range of contemporary literature and played a vital role in shaping cultural discourse in Italy. Einaudi's publishing house became a cornerstone for new literary movements and brought attention to both Italian and international writers.

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Red Norvo

Vibraphone player and jazz composer
Born
March 31st, 1908 116 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1999 25 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent American vibraphone player and composer, this musician played a significant role in the development of jazz. Active from the 1920s through the 1980s, collaborated with various jazz greats, including Charlie Parker and Billie Holiday. Contributed to the popularization of the vibraphone in jazz music and was involved in bands such as the Red Norvo Trio. Recorded numerous albums that showcased innovative approaches to rhythm and improvisation.

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Heinz Lehmann

Psychiatrist recognized for psychopharmacology
Born
July 17th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1999 25 years ago — 87 years old

A German-Canadian psychiatrist, significant contributions included advancements in the field of psychopharmacology. Emphasized the use of medications to treat psychiatric disorders. Conducted extensive research on antipsychotic drugs, leading to improved treatment methods for schizophrenia. Worked on reducing stigma associated with mental health conditions through education and advocacy in medical communities. Served as a professor and worked in various hospitals, influencing psychiatric practices in Canada during the latter half of the 20th century.

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Ibrahim Baré Maïnassara

Nigerien general and president
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1999 25 years ago — 50 years old

Served as a military officer and politician in Niger. Came to power through a coup in 1996, becoming the president of Niger. His administration faced various challenges, including political instability and economic issues. Continued to hold power until his assassination in 1999.

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Heinz Fraenkel-Conrat

Biochemist and physician in virology
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1999 25 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of virology, focusing on the structure and function of viruses. Developed the first successful strategy for purifying tobacco mosaic virus, paving the way for subsequent research in virology. Conducted early studies on the genetic nature of viruses, laying groundwork for future discoveries in molecular biology. Held academic positions at several universities and published extensively in scientific journals.

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Jean Vander Pyl

Voice actress from The Flintstones
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1999 25 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent voice actress and actress, contributed to character voices in animated television series and films. Gained recognition for voicing Wilma Flintstone in the classic animated series The Flintstones. Provided voice work for several other animated shows including portraying characters in The Jetsons and The Smurfs. Also had a career in live-action television and film, making appearances in series such as I Love Lucy and The Brady Bunch.

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Boxcar Willie

Country music singer-songwriter
Born
September 1st, 1931 93 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1999 25 years ago — 67 years old

Started career in the 1970s, focusing on the genre of country music. Gained recognition for a distinctive persona as a hobo character, performing in overalls and a hat. Released numerous albums and singles throughout the 1980s. Achieved widespread popularity with the song 'Boxcar Blues,' which became a staple of country music festivals and events. Frequently appeared on television shows and at concert venues, solidifying a following among country music fans. Also known for contributions to the preservation of traditional American folk music.

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