What Happened This Year 1999

People Who Died in 1999

King Hussein of Jordan

Jordanian King and peace advocate
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1999 26 years ago — 64 years old

Ruled as the King of Jordan from 1952 until death in 1999. Focused on modernization and economic development within the country. Played a significant role in the peace process in the Middle East, notably signing the Israel-Jordan Peace Treaty in 1994. Advocated for Arab unity and regional stability throughout his reign. Worked to maintain Jordan's sovereignty amid regional conflicts and showcased leadership during various crises.

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Bobby Troup

American composer and actor in 'M*A*S*H'
Born
October 18th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1999 26 years ago — 80 years old

An American actor, pianist, and composer, celebrated for contributions to television and music. Troup gained recognition for creating the song 'Route 66', which became a standard in American music. Troup appeared in the television series 'M*A*S*H' as Captain John 'Trapper' McIntyre and showcased his musical talent in various episodes. His work also included performances on Broadway and recordings with notable jazz artists. Troup's career spanned several decades, making significant contributions to both the entertainment and music industries.

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John Ehrlichman

Lawyer and 12th White House Counsel
Born
March 20th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1999 26 years ago — 73 years old

Served as the 12th White House Counsel during the Nixon administration. Played a significant role in the Watergate scandal, providing legal advice to President Nixon and helping to manage the administration's response to the crisis. After leaving office, faced legal consequences related to the Watergate cover-up, including conviction and imprisonment for conspiracy, obstruction of justice, and perjury. Authored several works, including a memoir reflecting on his time in the Nixon administration.

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Buddy Knox

American singer-songwriter, 'Party Doll'
Born
July 20th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1999 26 years ago — 65 years old

An influential figure in the rock and roll era, one contributed significantly to the genre during the 1950s and 1960s. Released the hit single 'Party Doll' in 1957, which topped the charts and became a defining song of the era. Also gained recognition for his blend of country music influences with rock, which helped shape the sound of early rock and roll. Throughout the career, produced several successful albums and singles, earning a loyal fanbase and leaving a lasting legacy.

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Henry Way Kendall

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 9th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1999 26 years ago — 72 years old

An American physicist specialized in experimental particle physics, contributed significantly to the understanding of subatomic particles. Conducted research at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where advancements in electron scattering experiments were made, leading to important discoveries about the structure of protons and neutrons. Additionally, pursued mountaineering and became known for his dedication to environmental conservation efforts.

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Mohammad Mohammad Sadeq al-Sadr

Iraqi cleric and Shiite leader
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1999 26 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent Shiite religious leader and cleric in Iraq, he played a significant role in the Iraqi political landscape during the late 20th century. Educated in Islamic studies, he emerged as a key figure following the fall of the Saddam Hussein regime. Focused on social justice and advocating for the rights of the Shiite community, he established multiple educational and social institutions. He gained a large following and was pivotal in mobilizing protests against government oppression. His influence extended beyond religion into political activism, where he became a symbol of resistance for many Iraqis during turbulent times.

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Sarah Kane

Playwright and screenwriter
Born
February 3rd, 1971 54 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 28 years old

An influential English playwright, recognized for her exploration of intense emotional themes and provocative subject matter in theater. Contributions to contemporary drama include works that challenged traditional narratives and form. 'Blasted', premiered in 1995, received critical acclaim for its stark portrayal of violence and human suffering. Subsequent works such as 'Cleansed', 'Crave', and '4.48 Psychosis' continued to explore the complexities of mental illness, relationships, and existential despair, establishing a distinct voice in modern theater. Kane's works often featured elements of shock and raw emotion, prompting discussions on censorship and the representation of trauma.

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Gene Siskel

Film critic and co-host of At the Movies
Born
January 26th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 53 years old

This individual served as a prominent film critic and journalist, co-hosting the television program 'At the Movies' alongside Roger Ebert for over two decades. The program became influential in defining film criticism on television, providing reviews and insights on a wide range of films. The critic also wrote for the Chicago Tribune, where a column and reviews highlighted cinematic works, influencing public perception and the film industry. His work often involved spirited debates about films, particularly in the context of popular culture. The critic's legacy endures in the field of film journalism, shaping how films are critiqued and approached by audiences.

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Gertrude B. Elion

American biochemist and Nobel laureate
Born
January 23rd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1999 26 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent biochemist and pharmacologist contributed significantly to the development of drugs that treat various diseases. Collaborated with George H. Hitchings at Burroughs Wellcome Laboratories, focusing on creating innovative medications. Elion's research led to the development of the first effective treatments for leukemia and drugs to prevent organ transplantation rejection. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1988 alongside Hitchings and Sir James W. Black for their discoveries concerning new principles for drug treatment.

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