What Happened This Year 2000

People Who Died in 2000

Gwendolyn Brooks

American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
June 7th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 2000 24 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1917, a prominent figure in American poetry, celebrated for addressing the complexities of urban life, race, and identity. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1949 for the collection 'Annie Allen', making history as the first African American to win the award. Engaged with various literary movements, including the Black Arts Movement, and served as the Poet Laureate of Illinois. Worked as a teacher and mentor to younger poets, contributing significantly to the literary community throughout her career.

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Henck Arron

Surinamese Prime Minister and banker
Born
April 25th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2000 24 years ago — 64 years old

A Surinamese banker and politician served as the first Prime Minister of the Republic of Suriname from 1973 to 1977. During this term, focused on developing Suriname's economy and promoting its independence from the Netherlands. The administration faced significant challenges, including political opposition and social unrest. After resigning in 1977, continued involvement in banking and business. Contributed to the landscape of Surinamese politics and economics through various roles and initiatives.

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Werner Klemperer

Actor in Hogan's Heroes
Born
March 22nd, 1920 104 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2000 24 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Germany, one of the prominent stars of American television, achieved recognition primarily for portraying Colonel Wilhelm Klink in the series Hogan's Heroes. The show aired from 1965 to 1971 and depicted the lives of Allied prisoners of war in a German POW camp during World War II. Klemperer's performance garnered critical acclaim and earned two Emmy Awards. Emigrated to the United States in 1935, Klemperer also had a successful career on stage and in film, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

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Marie Windsor

Actress in film and television
Born
December 11th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2000 24 years ago — 80 years old

An American actress with a prolific career spanning several decades, most active from the 1940s through the 1980s. Received acclaim for performances in film noir and other genres. Gained popularity through roles in films such as 'The Narrow Margin' and 'The Killing'. Appeared in numerous television shows including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Gunsmoke'. Established a strong reputation for portraying tough, resilient characters.

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Shaista Suhrawardy Ikramullah

Indian-Pakistani politician and diplomat
Born
July 22nd, 1915 109 years ago
Died
December 11th, 2000 24 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1915, served as a prominent figure in Indian and Pakistani politics. Played a pivotal role in women's rights advocacy and was a vocal supporter of female education. Became the first Muslim woman to be elected to the Pakistan Constituent Assembly and later held various diplomatic positions. Contributed to the establishment of the Women's National Guard in Pakistan. Participated in significant political events during the transition from British India to Pakistan.

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Kirsty MacColl

Singer-songwriter; 'Fairytale of New York'
Born
October 10th, 1959 65 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2000 24 years ago — 41 years old

An English singer-songwriter, notable for contributions to the music industry throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Released multiple albums including 'Kite' and 'Electric Landlady'. The song 'Fairytale of New York', a duet with Shane MacGowan of The Pogues, became a Christmas classic. In addition, composed songs for other artists and gained recognition for her distinctive voice and style. Tragically, died in 2000 at the age of 41 following a boating accident in Mexico.

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John Lindsay

American politician and lawyer, NYC Mayor
Born
November 24th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2000 24 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the 103rd Mayor of New York City from 1966 to 1973. Worked as a lawyer before entering politics. Focused on improving urban infrastructure and social programs during tenure. Managed the city's response to various social challenges, including racial tensions and the Vietnam War protests. Initiated the construction of new public facilities and transportation upgrades. Faced a challenging fiscal environment which impacted services provided by the city.

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Milt Hinton

American bassist and photographer
Born
June 23rd, 1910 114 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2000 24 years ago — 90 years old

A significant figure in jazz music, contributed to the genre as a double bassist. Worked with major artists including Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Count Basie. Also recognized for photography, capturing many notable musicians and backstage moments in the jazz scene. His career spanned several decades, influencing both music and visual documentation of the jazz culture.

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Rob Buck

Guitarist and songwriter for 10,000 Maniacs
Born
August 1st, 1958 66 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2000 24 years ago — 42 years old

A guitarist and songwriter contributed significantly to the alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs. The band formed in 1981 and gained prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The band’s breakthrough album, 'In My Tribe', released in 1987, featured hits that received critical acclaim. Contributed to the band’s distinct sound with intricate guitar work and thoughtful lyrics. Continued to work with the band until his passing in 2000, influencing new generations of musicians.

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