What Happened This Year 1999

People Who Died in 1999

Lisy Fischer

Pianist and child prodigy
Born
August 22nd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 99 years old

Born in Switzerland, exhibited exceptional musical talent from a young age. Achieved acclaim as a child prodigy, captivating audiences with technical prowess and emotive performances. Established a successful career that included both solo performances and collaborations with orchestras. Contributed to the classical music scene through performances in prestigious venues and festivals, earning recognition as a remarkable pianist of her time.

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João Carlos de Oliveira

Brazilian long jumper and Olympic medalist
Born
May 28th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 45 years old

A Brazilian long jumper achieved significant success in athletics during the 1980s. Competed in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, where secured a silver medal. Set several national records in the long jump and earned a reputation within the sport for exceptional performances. Contributed to Brazil's athletic legacy in track and field events. As a key figure in Brazilian athletics, also participated in various international competitions throughout his career.

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Gian-Carlo Rota

Mathematician and philosopher at MIT
Born
April 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Italy and later relocating to the United States, this mathematician and philosopher made significant contributions to the fields of combinatorics and the foundations of mathematics. A prominent figure at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), he served as a professor and influenced many students and researchers. He explored concepts in infinite-dimensional spaces and introduced ideas that bridged mathematical theory and philosophical implications. His work spanned various areas of mathematics and offered insights into the structure of mathematical reasoning.

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Rita Sakellariou

Greek singer and performer
Born
November 22nd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1934, a notable Greek singer gained recognition in the 1950s and 1960s for her contributions to Greek music, particularly in the genres of rebetiko and laika. Over the years, released numerous albums and singles, showcasing traditional and contemporary Greek melodies. Collaborated with prominent composers and musicians, establishing a lasting legacy in the music scene. Continued to perform and record music until later years.

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Sylvester Clarke

Cricketer, West Indies Test bowler
Born
December 11th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 45 years old

A cricketer from Barbados, made significant contributions to West Indies cricket during the 1970s and 1980s. Played as a fast bowler, known for his pace and bounce. Represented the West Indies in 78 Test matches and 92 One Day Internationals. Achieved a prominent role in the West Indies squad that dominated Test cricket during this era, contributing to numerous series victories. Retired from international cricket in the late 1980s, leaving a legacy in Barbadian and West Indies cricket.

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Fritz Leonhardt

Engineer, designer of Fernsehturm Stuttgart
Born
July 12th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent engineer, focused on structural design. Collaborated on several key projects in Germany during the mid-20th century. Designed the Fernsehturm Stuttgart, a television tower that became a notable feature of the Stuttgart skyline. Contributed to advancements in construction techniques and materials.

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Forrest Mars

Candy maker, creator of M&M's
Born
March 21st, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 95 years old

Involved in the confectionery industry, established a successful business in partnership with the Mars Company. Developed M&M's, a popular chocolate candy coated with a hard shell, during World War II to provide soldiers with a durable snack. Later introduced the Mars bar, a chocolate bar consisting of nougat and caramel. Contributed significantly to the growth of the candy market and family business.

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Jerzy Grotowski

Theatre director and founder of Theatre Lab
Born
August 11th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent theatre director and producer, significantly contributed to the field of theatre art. Founded the Theatre Lab in Poland, emphasizing the actor's craft and the relationship between the actor and audience. Developed the concept of 'poor theatre,' which stripped away elaborate sets and focused on the essential elements of performance. Conducted pioneering work in actor training and sought to enhance the spiritual and emotional experience of theatre. Later, established the Grotowski Institute to preserve his methods and research.

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Eddie Dean

American singer-songwriter, actor
Born
July 9th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 92 years old

Achieved prominence as a singer and songwriter in the country music genre. Appeared in numerous films and television shows during the mid-20th century, often portraying cowboy characters. Known for a unique blend of traditional country music and Western film themes. Recorded several albums and singles, contributing to the growth of country and Western music during that era.

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