What Happened This Year 2000

People Who Died in 2000

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Rodrigo

Argentinian singer-songwriter with popular music
Born
May 24th, 1973 51 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 27 years old

Born in Argentina, a prominent figure in the cumbia genre. Achieved fame in the 1990s and 2000s, releasing numerous albums that combined traditional and modern cumbia styles. Gained widespread popularity with hits that resonated deeply with audiences, particularly within Latin American communities. Contributed to the revitalization of cumbia music and became a household name in Argentina, celebrated for performances that showcased energetic rhythms and engaging lyrics. His music continued to influence a new generation of artists even after his untimely death.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Jacques Goddet

French journalist and cycling authority
Born
June 21st, 1905 119 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 95 years old

Worked as a journalist and became a prominent figure in the world of cycling. Served as the director of the Tour de France from 1936 to 1986, overseeing its evolution into one of the most prestigious sporting events globally. Contributed to the popularization of cycling in France through extensive media coverage and promotional efforts. Founded the newspaper 'L’Équipe,' which was crucial to the coverage of sports in France and beyond. Established a close relationship with cyclists and played a significant role in the sport's governance.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

George Musso

American football player, police officer
Born
April 8th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 90 years old

Played as an offensive lineman in the National Football League (NFL) for the Chicago Bears from 1933 to 1943. Musso was part of the NFL Championship team in 1940. After retiring from professional football, transitioned to a career with the Chicago police department, serving in law enforcement until retirement. Musso's contributions to the team and community were recognized throughout his life.

Continue Reading

Hwang Sun-won

North Korean author and poet
Born
March 26th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent author and poet, contributed significantly to North Korean literature. Worked in various capacities within the government and literary circles. Gained recognition for literary works that reflect North Korean society and ideology. Wrote novels, essays, and poetry during a time of political turmoil, capturing the essence of everyday life in North Korea and its evolving conditions.

Continue Reading

James Andrew Harris

Chemist and academic in polymer science
Born
March 26th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 68 years old

An American chemist and academic, made significant contributions to the field of polymer science. Served as a professor at several prestigious institutions and published numerous research papers focusing on the behavior of polymers under various conditions. Mentored numerous students, many of whom went on to become notable chemists themselves. Played a key role in advancing materials science and engineering through research and education.

Continue Reading