What Happened This Year 1999

People Who Died in 1999

Wilmer Mizell

Baseball player and politician
Born
August 13th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1999 26 years ago — 68 years old

Played Major League Baseball as a pitcher from 1951 to 1962, primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Mets. Achieved 9 wins in his rookie season with the Cardinals. Later transitioned into a political career, serving in the North Carolina State Senate. Contributed to legislative matters and continued involvement in sports and public service after retirement from baseball.

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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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Menno Oosting

Dutch tennis player; ATP singles champion
Born
May 17th, 1964 60 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1999 26 years ago — 34 years old

Competitor in men's tennis during the late 20th century. Won the Dutch National Championships in 1980. Achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 51. Played in major tournaments including Wimbledon and the US Open. Transitioned into coaching and contributed to the development of future tennis players after retiring from professional competition.

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William Bronk

American poet and academic writer
Born
February 17th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1999 26 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1918, this American poet and academic contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. His poetry often explored themes of existence and nature, reflecting a deep understanding of human experience. Bronk published several acclaimed collections, with 'The Questioning Presence' seen as a pivotal work within his oeuvre. In addition to poetry, he held a significant academic position, influencing students and future poets through his teachings and writings. His work received numerous accolades over the years, affirming his status in the literary community.

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The Renegade

Professional wrestler and WCW competitor
Born
1965 60 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1999 26 years ago — 34 years old

A professional wrestler achieved prominence in the 1990s. Gained attention in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and was known for a version of the Ultimate Warrior character. Competed in various high-profile matches and storylines, establishing a presence within the wrestling community. His tenure included participation in major WCW events such as Starrcade and Fall Brawl. Also wrestled in other promotions, showcasing athleticism and charisma in the ring.

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Andre Dubus

Short story writer and essayist
Born
August 11th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1999 26 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent American writer, this individual gained recognition for a body of work that includes short stories, essays, and memoirs. His writing often explored themes of relationships, moral dilemmas, and the complexity of human emotions. Much of the work drew from personal experiences, particularly life struggles and reflections on domestic life. Notable collections such as 'Dancing After Hours' and 'The Stories of Andre Dubus' showcased literary talent and depth. The individual faced significant challenges, including a tragic car accident that influenced both personal life and writing.

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Glenn T. Seaborg

Chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
April 19th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1999 26 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed to the discovery of plutonium and several other elements, including americium and curium. Served as the chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission. Influenced U.S. nuclear policy and education during a pivotal time in scientific advancement. Authored numerous publications and texts on chemistry, contributing to academic understanding and research.

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Horace Tapscott

American pianist and composer of jazz
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1999 26 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure in the Los Angeles jazz scene, Tapscott contributed significantly as a pianist, composer, and bandleader. He founded the Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra in 1961, dedicated to performing and promoting African American music. Tapscott released several albums, including 'The Call' and 'Live at the Angel City Jazz Festival.' In addition to performance and composition, he played a key role in music education and community activism, influencing countless musicians through his workshops and masterclasses.

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Dusty Springfield

English singer and 'Son of a Preacher Man'
Born
April 16th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1999 26 years ago — 59 years old

An influential English singer, noted for a distinctive voice and emotional delivery. Gained prominence in the 1960s, becoming one of the era's leading female vocalists. Achieved commercial success with hits such as 'Son of a Preacher Man' and 'I Only Want to Be with You'. Springfield's career spanned several decades, during which she transitioned from pop to blue-eyed soul, amassing a dedicated fan base. Alongside a successful music career, she had a significant impact on the development of female artists in popular music. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999, solidifying her legacy within the music industry.

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