What Happened This Year 1999

People Who Died in 1999

Forrest Mars

Candy maker, creator of M&M's
Born
March 21st, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1999 26 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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Norm Zauchin

American baseball player for the Red Sox
Born
November 17th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 70 years old

Played Major League Baseball as a first baseman and outfielder. Had a career spanning from 1954 to 1960, primarily with the Boston Red Sox. Contributed to the team's efforts during the mid-1950s. Achieved a notable batting average and recorded several home runs during his time in the league. Retired from professional baseball after a brief stint with the Washington Senators.

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Akio Morita

Businessman, co-founder of Sony Corporation
Born
January 26th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 78 years old

Co-founded Sony Corporation in 1946, which became a leading manufacturer of electronics and entertainment products. Developed the first successful portable transistor radio. Played a crucial role in launching the Betamax video format and the Walkman, revolutionizing how people consume music. Expanded Sony's business into films and music production, significantly influencing the global entertainment industry. Authored the book 'Made in Japan,' sharing insights on business practices and corporate culture.

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Carl Gunter

American politician and public servant
Born
October 16th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1938, a prominent figure in American politics, served in various roles including as a state legislator. Focused on community development and public policy, with an emphasis on education and healthcare reform. Held significant leadership positions within the state government and contributed to legislative initiatives during tenure. Engaged with local constituents to address pressing issues and improved government outreach.

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Celestine Sibley

American journalist and author of columns
Born
May 23rd, 1914 110 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 85 years old

A journalist and author with a career spanning several decades, this individual contributed to various publications, notably the Atlanta Constitution. Columns focused on Southern culture, social issues, and personal anecdotes highlighted distinct perspectives of the time. As an author, works explored themes of family and community, reflecting local histories and characters. The written contributions remained influential in shaping public discourse around regional topics.

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Wim Polak

Journalist and Mayor of Amsterdam
Born
September 14th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 75 years old

Held a significant role in Dutch politics and journalism. Served as the Mayor of Amsterdam from 1978 to 1986, implementing various urban policies and community initiatives. Engaged in post-war reconstruction efforts and promoted cultural affairs. Contributed to the discourse around city planning and public welfare.

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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.

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Eric Harris

Mass murderer responsible for Columbine
Born
April 9th, 1981 43 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.

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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.

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