What Happened This Year 2000
People Who Died in 2000
Davie Fulton
Practiced law and served as a judge in Canada. Elected as a Member of Parliament and held the position of Minister of National Defence. Contributed to legal reforms and served on several judicial committees. Prominent in shaping policies and legislation during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingMajrooh Sultanpuri
An influential figure in Hindi cinema, contributed as a poet and songwriter. Began writing in the late 1940s and became a prominent lyricist in numerous films. Worked with top composers and contributed to the golden era of Bollywood music. Received recognition through several prestigious awards for the body of work in film music. Captured themes of love, longing, and social issues through evocative lyrics, establishing a lasting legacy in Indian music and poetry.
Continue ReadingMaurice Richard
An elite ice hockey player participated in the National Hockey League with the Montreal Canadiens from 1942 to 1960. Established a reputation as a prolific goal scorer, notably becoming the first player in NHL history to score 50 goals in a single season during the 1944-45 season. Served as a coach and mentor after retiring, influencing future generations of players. His jersey number 9 was retired league-wide, signifying his impact on the sport. The Rocket continues to be a symbol of hockey excellence in Canada.
Continue ReadingMurray MacLehose
A Scottish politician and diplomat held the position of 25th Governor of Hong Kong from 1971 to 1982. Oversaw significant political changes and economic growth in Hong Kong during a period marked by social unrest. Promoted the development of public housing and infrastructure projects. Worked on the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration that laid the groundwork for Hong Kong's future.
Continue ReadingKazimierz Leski
Born in 1912, a Polish pilot and engineer served in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Contributed to the development of aircraft and participated in crucial operations. After the war, returned to Poland and continued work in aviation engineering and design, focusing on improvements in aircraft performance and safety.
Continue ReadingTex Beneke
Born in 1914, a prominent American singer, saxophonist, and bandleader, contributed significantly to the big band era. Joined the Glenn Miller Orchestra in the early 1940s and was instrumental in its success. After Miller's disappearance in 1944, continued to lead the band, bringing it to commercial success with hits such as 'Chattanooga Choo Choo'. Also known for a successful solo career, recording many popular songs during the 1940s and 1950s. His style combined elements of jazz and swing, appealing to wide audiences across the nation.
Continue ReadingPetar Mladenov
Served as a key figure in Bulgaria's transition from a one-party state to a multi-party democracy in the early 1990s. Assumed the presidency in 1990 after the resignation of the previous head of state. Implemented democratic reforms and oversaw significant political changes in the country. Held the presidency until 1992, when a new constitution was adopted. His role included participation in the establishment of the Bulgarian Socialist Party and advocating for Bulgaria's integration into European structures.
Continue ReadingA. Jeyaratnam Wilson
This historian and academic contributed to the understanding of Sri Lanka's political and social dynamics through extensive research. He wrote several critical works, including 'Sri Lankan Tamil Nationalism: A History of the Tamil Federation of the 1930s,' which analyzed the evolution of Tamil nationalism in the island. As a prominent figure within the academic community, he held positions at various universities and engaged with contemporary issues on ethnicity and identity in Sri Lanka. His expertise in history and political science fostered a greater comprehension of the complexities surrounding the Sri Lankan civil conflict.
Continue ReadingTito Puente
A prominent figure in Latin music, contributed significantly to the popularization of salsa music. Toured extensively and released numerous albums. Acclaimed for energetic performances and innovative arrangements that blended Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz and other genres. Received several awards, including Grammy Awards, celebrating remarkable contributions to music.
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