What Happened This Year 2000

People Who Died in 2000

Lewis Wilson

American actor, first Batman in film
Born
January 28th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 80 years old

Debuted in the 1943 serial 'Batman' as the first actor to portray Batman on screen. Participated in the series that featured a total of 15 episodes, significantly shaping the portrayal of the iconic superhero in film history. Continued to work in film and television throughout the 1940s and 1950s, contributing to the entertainment industry until the late 20th century.

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Jeanne Lee

Jazz singer and composer, Poetry for Love
Born
January 29th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 61 years old

An American jazz singer, poet, and composer, contributions to music spanned several genres, with a significant focus on avant-garde jazz. Her collaboration with innovative musicians helped shape the musical landscape of the 1960s and beyond. Poetry often served as a foundation for musical expressions, blending spoken word with jazz melodies. A commitment to jazz education also characterized her career, inspiring new generations of musicians. Lee's performances included solo work and collaborations with renowned artists, showcasing a unique vocal style that elevated jazz to new heights.

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Amalia Hernández

Mexican choreographer and dancer
Born
September 19th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent choreographer and dancer from Mexico, contributed significantly to the development of Mexican folk dance. Founded the Ballet Folklórico de México in 1952, which showcased traditional Mexican culture through dance. Designed choreographies that integrated regional music and dance styles, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of Mexico. The company gained international recognition, performing in numerous countries and influencing the global appreciation of Mexican folklore.

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Nat Adderley

American cornet and trumpet player
Born
November 25th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 69 years old

Cornet and trumpet player associated with the hard bop jazz movement. Contributed to the genre's development through performances and recordings. Collaborated with notable figures such as his brother, Julian 'Cannonball' Adderley, and participated in many jazz ensembles. Recorded several albums and worked with the Cannonball Adderley Quintet, which gained recognition during the late 1950s and 1960s. His improvisational style and musicality influenced numerous musicians within the jazz community.

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Friedensreich Hundertwasser

Artist and architect of colorful buildings
Born
December 15th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 72 years old

Austrian-New Zealand painter and architect contributed significantly to the art and architectural landscape with unique, colorful designs that emphasized harmony with nature. Challenged conventional architectural practices, focusing on individuality and organic forms. Developed a distinct style incorporating bright colors, spirals, and an eclectic mix of materials. Also engaged in environmental activism, advocating for ecological principles in urban development and sustaining natural landscapes. Established several notable works in Vienna and other locations.

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Don Martin

Cartoonist of MAD magazine fame
Born
May 18th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 69 years old

Raised in New Jersey, a prominent cartoonist created a unique style characterized by exaggerated characters and humorous situations. Contributed to MAD magazine for over four decades, becoming a vital part of its identity. Developed a signature brand of slapstick humor and absurdity evident in recurring gags and inventive illustrations. Also produced his own series in comic format, further showcasing his distinctive artistic approach and storytelling. Influenced a generation of cartoonists and left a lasting mark on the genre of humor comics.

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Robert R. Gilruth

Spacecraft engineer and NASA director
Born
October 8th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 87 years old

An influential engineer and director at NASA, significant contributions occurred within the space program, particularly during the Mercury and Gemini missions. Played a crucial role in the Apollo lunar program, overseeing the development of critical spacecraft technology. Led the Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston, Texas, driving advancements in human spaceflight. Authored numerous technical papers and reports that established foundational principles for crewed space exploration.

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Dorino Serafini

Italian racing driver and Mille Miglia winner
Born
July 22nd, 1909 115 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in Italian motorsport during the early 20th century. Raced in various competitions, achieving significant success. Gained recognition as a skilled driver in endurance races, most notably the Mille Miglia. Competed for teams such as Maserati and Alfa Romeo, showcasing remarkable driving talent on the roads of Italy. Continued to participate in motor racing events throughout the 1940s and 1950s, leaving a legacy in the racing community.

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Margaret Hutchinson Rousseau

Chemical engineer and reactor designer
Born
October 27th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 90 years old

Contributions included significant advancements in chemical engineering, particularly in the design and operation of industrial reactors. Played a pivotal role in the development of the first commercial-scale production of penicillin during World War II. Worked on various projects at Brookhaven National Laboratory, enhancing methods in reactor engineering.

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