What Happened This Year 1999

People Who Died in 1999

Nicholas Metropolis

American mathematician and physicist
Born
June 11th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1999 25 years ago — 84 years old

This individual contributed significantly to the development of computational techniques in physics. Involved in the Manhattan Project, played a key role in the creation of the first atomic bomb. Later, worked on the Monte Carlo method, a statistical approach used for numerical calculations. Held academic positions, influencing generations of mathematicians and physicists through teaching and mentorship. Collaborated with numerous notable scientists during a career that spanned several decades.

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James C. Murray

American lawyer and politician
Born
May 16th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1999 25 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1917, a lawyer and politician served in various political roles in the state of New York. Worked on a range of legislative issues, with a focus on civil rights and urban development. Elected as a member of the New York State Assembly and later the New York State Senate, contributing to significant reforms throughout his tenure. Played a crucial role in the development of state policies that addressed housing and education.

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Nathalie Sarraute

French author and prominent novelist
Born
July 18th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1999 25 years ago — 99 years old

A prominent novelist and lawyer, contributed significantly to the literary movement known as Nouveau Roman. Published major works exploring psychological insights and personal identity. Achieved critical acclaim for novels such as 'Tropisms' and 'Pour un Nouveau Roman'. Her writing style focused on the inner experiences of characters rather than traditional plotlines.

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Calvin Griffith

Canadian-American businessman with MLB
Born
December 1st, 1911 113 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1999 25 years ago — 87 years old

A businessman who served as the owner of the Minnesota Twins in Major League Baseball from 1961 until 1984. Griffith played a significant role in the franchise's development and relocation from Washington, D.C. to Minnesota, becoming a key figure in securing the team's new stadium. The team won the World Series in 1965 during his ownership. Griffith was known for his operations within the MLB and his influence in the league's expansion efforts in the 1960s.

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Ahmet Taner Kışlalı

Turkish political scientist and journalist
Born
July 10th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1999 25 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent political scientist, journalist, and educator contributed significantly to the discourse on Turkish politics and democracy. Involved in various academic and journalistic endeavors, engaged with issues surrounding secularism and modernity in Turkey. Published numerous articles and books analyzing political structures, ideologies, and social dynamics in the country. Served as a faculty member at several universities, educating future generations on political science and journalism. Tragically, lost life in a terrorist attack, which brought attention to political violence and press freedom in Turkey.

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Eric Reece

Australian politician, 32nd Premier of Tasmania
Born
July 6th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1999 25 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the 32nd Premier of Tasmania from 1972 to 1975, representing the Australian Labor Party. Held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Education and Minister for Transport. Worked to improve public services and infrastructure within Tasmania during the time in office.

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Payne Stewart

Professional golfer and U.S. Open champion
Born
January 30th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1999 25 years ago — 42 years old

A prominent golfer, achieved major success in the 1980s and 1990s. Won three major championships, including the U.S. Open in 1991 and 1999. Also claimed victory at the 1989 PGA Championship. Stewart was recognized for his distinctive style, often wearing knickers during tournaments. He tragically died in a plane crash in 1999, leaving a significant legacy in the golfing community.

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Eknath Easwaran

Educator and author of spiritual books
Born
December 17th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1999 25 years ago — 88 years old

An educator and author focused on introducing meditation and spiritual traditions from the East to the West. Founded the Blue Mountain Center of Meditation, which promotes the practice of meditation and offers programs for self-improvement. Wrote several books, including 'Experiencing the Bhagavad Gita' and 'Meditation: A Simple Eight-Point Program for Translating Spiritual Ideals into Daily Life,' which emphasize practical spirituality and personal growth. Developed a unique method of meditation that has been taught worldwide.

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Hoyt Axton

Singer-songwriter and actor, 'The New Christy Minstrels'
Born
March 25th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1999 25 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent figure in American music and film, contributed significantly as a singer-songwriter and actor. Played a key role in the folk music revival of the 1960s. Wrote several hit songs, including 'Joy to the World,' which became a major success for the band Three Dog Night. Appeared in movies such as 'Five Easy Pieces' and 'The Black Stallion.' His work often blended elements of country, folk, and rock.

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