What Happened This Year 2000

People Who Died in 2000

Robert Welch

English silversmith and designer
Born
May 21st, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 71 years old

A notable English silversmith and industrial designer contributed significantly to 20th-century design. Established a successful design studio in the 1950s, focusing on functional yet aesthetically pleasing products. His work encompassed a range of items, particularly in cutlery and tableware, combining practicality with elegance. Welch's designs were characterized by their clean lines and craftsmanship, gaining recognition in domestic and commercial markets. The establishment of the 'Robert Welch Designs' brand marked a significant development in contemporary British manufacturing. He also received the Royal Designers for Industry award in 1968, highlighting contributions to design excellence in Britain.

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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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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.

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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.

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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.

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Shiho Niiyama

Voice actress in Japanese anime series
Born
March 21st, 1970 54 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 30 years old

Born in Japan in 1970, this individual has had a prominent career as a voice actress in various anime series and video games. Early in the career, involvement in notable productions established a reputation in the industry. This individual contributed voices to characters in popular anime series, garnering a loyal fanbase. The work includes significant roles that left a lasting impression on audiences, showcasing vocal talent in both leading and supporting roles.

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Anatoly Sobchak

Russian politician and scholar
Born
August 10th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent political figure in Russia, held the mayoral position in Saint Petersburg from 1991 to 1996. Played a key role in the transition to democracy following the fall of the Soviet Union. Served as a legal scholar and was influential in shaping the new Russian constitution. Contributed to the establishment of a multi-party system during the early years of post-Soviet governance.

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