What Happened This Year 1999

People Who Died in 1999

Tommy Ridgley

American singer and bandleader
Born
October 30th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in the New Orleans music scene, this singer and bandleader played a pivotal role in the development of rhythm and blues. With a career spanning several decades, gained recognition for contributions to the genre, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s through performances and recordings. Formed and led the band Tommy Ridgley and His Band, which became known for energetic live shows. Recorded significant hits that highlighted the vibrant cultural landscape of New Orleans. His work not only entertained but also influenced the growth and popularity of the R&B genre across the United States.

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John Bromwich

Tennis player and Australian Open champion
Born
November 14th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 81 years old

An Australian tennis player achieved significant success during the 1930s and 1940s. Won the Australian Open singles title in 1939. Played doubles alongside notable partners, achieving further success in mixed doubles events. Contributed to the Davis Cup team, which won the championship during his tenure. His career spanned both amateur and professional tennis, marking a period of competitiveness in the sport.

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Carlos Hathcock

U.S. Marine Corps sniper, Vietnam War
Born
May 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 57 years old

Enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served during the Vietnam War, renowned for exceptional marksmanship. Achieved the rank of sergeant and became one of the most legendary snipers in military history. Accumulated over 93 confirmed kills during service in Vietnam. Participated in various missions, showcasing remarkable skills and bravery. After multiple injuries, completed a distinguished career in the military, later became a shooting instructor and authored books on marksmanship.

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Shmuel Horowitz

Israeli agronomist and academic leader
Born
September 12th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1901, this individual contributed significantly to the field of agronomy in Israel. The academic focus encompassed soil science, plant breeding, and agricultural education. A prominent role was held at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where teachings and research advanced agricultural practices. Advocacy for agricultural development and modernization in Israel shaped farming techniques and policies.

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James Farmer

Civil rights activist and politician
Born
January 12th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 79 years old

An American activist and politician, played a significant role in the civil rights movement. Co-founded the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) in 1942, which became an important organization in the struggle for racial equality. Participated in various campaigns for civil rights, including the Freedom Rides in 1961, which aimed to desegregate public transportation in the South. Served as a national director of CORE and advocated for nonviolent protest as a means to achieve social change. Farmer's efforts contributed to the advancement of civil rights legislation in the United States.

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Franco Gasparri

Italian actor in 'La Piovra'
Born
October 31st, 1948 76 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1948, an Italian actor achieved prominence through work in film and television. Gained recognition for roles in crime dramas and thrillers, particularly in the miniseries 'La Piovra', which explored the Italian Mafia. Contributed to the artistic landscape of Italian cinema and television during the late 20th century. Worked on various other projects that showcased versatility in acting, collaborating with notable directors and actors in the industry.

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Constance Savery

English author of children's literature
Born
October 31st, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 102 years old

An English author specialized in children's literature. Wrote several novels, including 'The Little House on the Prairie' and 'The Lonely Shepherd'. Worked primarily in the mid-20th century, creating works that explored themes of adventure and imagination. Contributions to children's fiction included a variety of stories that captivated young readers, establishing a legacy in the genre. Also contributed to educational publications and was active in promoting literature for children.

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Karel van het Reve

Historian and author of works on history
Born
May 19th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent Dutch historian and author contributed significantly to the understanding of Dutch history and culture. Engaged in various academic pursuits, wrote extensively on the Dutch colonial past and the impact of World War II on the Netherlands. Held a position as a professor at the University of Amsterdam and published numerous influential books and essays on historical subjects. Worked to promote historical literacy and engaged with the public through lectures and writings.

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Alfred Kubel

German politician, Prime Minister of Lower Saxony
Born
May 25th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Lower Saxony from 1961 to 1970. Engaged in post-war politics and contributed to the rebuilding of the region. Held significant positions within the Social Democratic Party, influencing local and national policy. Worked on economic reforms and initiatives aimed at improving social welfare in Lower Saxony during the 1960s.

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