What Happened This Year 1999

People Who Died in 1999

Karel van het Reve

Historian and author of works on history
Born
May 19th, 1921 103 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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Carlos Hathcock

U.S. Marine Corps sniper, Vietnam War
Born
May 20th, 1942 82 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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Édouard Boubat

Photographer known for humanist imagery
Born
September 13th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 76 years old

Born in France, a notable photographer and journalist specialized in humanist photography. Worked extensively during the mid-20th century, capturing the essence of everyday life through a poetic lens. Developed a distinct style characterized by a deep warmth towards subjects, often reflecting a subtle narrative. Contributed to various publications and held numerous exhibitions across Europe. His work resonated with themes of love, beauty, and human connection, leaving a lasting imprint on the world of photography.

Continue Reading

Joshua Nkomo

Zimbabwean guerrilla leader and politician
Born
June 19th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent figure in Zimbabwe's struggle for independence, a leading figure in the Zimbabwe African People's Union (ZAPU) during the liberation movement. Served as Vice President after the nation's independence in 1980, contributing to the establishment of the new government. Nkomo played a crucial role in negotiating peace between various factions during the civil conflicts in the country.

Continue Reading

Eric Harris

Mass murderer responsible for Columbine
Born
April 9th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 18 years old

In 1999, a tragic event occurred at Columbine High School in Colorado, resulting in the loss of numerous lives. Two students orchestrated the attack, using firearms and explosives. The plan involved a targeted attack on students and faculty, leading to one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. This incident sparked nationwide debate on gun control and school safety, as well as discussions about mental health and the influences of violent media.

Continue Reading

Rafael Alberti

Spanish poet and playwright, 'Marinero en Tierra'
Born
December 16th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 97 years old

Born in 1902, this individual emerged as a prominent figure in Spanish literature. Alberti was a key member of the Generation of '27, a group of poets influential in the Spanish literary landscape. He wrote numerous poems, plays, and essays throughout his career, often drawing on themes of personal experience and political issues. The work 'Marinero en Tierra' received considerable acclaim and won the National Literature Prize. His œuvre is characterized by its innovative use of form and language. In addition to poetry, he engaged in political activities, promoting the Republican cause during the Spanish Civil War before going into exile. After returning to Spain, he continued writing and received various literary accolades.

Continue Reading