What Happened This Year 1999
People Who Died in 1999
Cyril Washbrook
Played international cricket for England from 1947 to 1959. A right-handed opening batsman, contributed significantly to the team during his career. Guildford-born cricketer made 48 Test appearances, scoring more than 2,600 runs. Notably part of the team that won the Ashes series against Australia in 1953. Close association with Lancashire County Cricket Club, where he also made substantial contributions.
Continue ReadingArthur Leonard Schawlow
Contributed significantly to the field of laser technology and optics. Earned a Ph.D. in physics from Columbia University. Worked at Bell Laboratories, where developed methods to produce laser light and co-invented the laser. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1981 for contributions to laser spectroscopy. Later served as a professor at Stanford University. Recognized for extensive academic contributions and advancements in scientific research.
Continue ReadingRory Calhoun
A prominent figure in American cinema, this actor's career spanned several decades. He starred in numerous western films during the 1950s and 1960s, establishing a reputation as a leading man. Collaborated with noted directors and appeared in several popular television series. His work extended to producing and writing, contributing to the creative landscape of the film industry.
Continue ReadingRolf Landauer
A German-American physicist and academic, made significant contributions in the field of theoretical physics, particularly information theory and its relation to thermodynamics. In 1961, introduced Landauer's principle, which established a fundamental link between information processing and energy consumption. Worked at IBM Thomas J. Watson Research Center and contributed to the development of quantum computing and noise in electronic devices. Held various academic positions, including professor at universities in the United States.
Continue ReadingAlf Ramsey
A prominent figure in English football, coached the England national team from 1963 to 1974. Achieved notable success by leading the team to victory in the 1966 FIFA World Cup, the only time England has won this prestigious tournament. Initiated significant changes in the team's playing style, favoring a tactical approach that emphasized organization and discipline. Prior to coaching, played for clubs such as Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur during the 1940s and 1950s.
Continue ReadingOliver Reed
Born in 1938, an English actor gained recognition for a commanding screen presence and intense performances. Career spanned several decades, beginning in the late 1950s. Achievement includes a role in the Oscar-winning film 'Gladiator.' Also appeared in notable films such as 'The Curse of the Werewolf' and 'The Three Musketeers.' Worked in theater and television, showcasing versatility across different media. Reed's off-screen personality was as striking as his on-screen roles, contributing to a public image that blended charm with unpredictability.
Continue ReadingDouglas Harkness
Served as a Canadian colonel and held the position of Minister of National Defence. Contributed to defense policy during a pivotal period in Canadian military history. Engaged in politics for several years, focusing on national defense and security.
Continue ReadingGodfrey Evans
Played for Kent County Cricket Club and England national team. Made contributions as a wicket-keeper and batsman during the 1940s and 1950s. Participated in several Test matches, showcasing skills behind the stumps. His career with Kent spanned over two decades, gathering a substantial record of dismissals.
Continue ReadingJoe Adcock
Played in Major League Baseball from 1950 to 1966, primarily as a first baseman. Adcock spent the majority of his career with the Milwaukee Braves and later played for the Cincinnati Reds and the Atlanta Braves. Achieved notable success during the 1957 season, earning a selection to the All-Star Game and contributing to the Braves' victory in the World Series that year. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching and management roles within the sport.
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