What Happened This Year 2000

People Who Died in 2000

Noboru Takeshita

74th Prime Minister of Japan
Born
February 26th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Japan from 1987 to 1989. Took concrete steps toward economic reform and improved Japan's international relations. Held positions within the Liberal Democratic Party, ultimately becoming the party's leader. Also served as a member of the House of Representatives for several decades, influencing Japanese politics throughout the post-war era.

Continue Reading

Derroll Adams

Folk singer-songwriter and musician
Born
November 27th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1925, this American folk singer-songwriter contributed significantly to the folk music scene, particularly during the 1960s. Renowned for performances featuring the banjo and guitar, the musician blended traditional folk with personal storytelling. Songs often reflected experiences drawn from travels and life encounters in the United States and Europe. His unique style and engaging narratives resonated with audiences, leading to performances at numerous music festivals and venues.

Continue Reading

Doris Hare

Actress in television and film productions
Born
March 1st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 95 years old

An actress, singer, and dancer, became well recognized for performances on stage, television, and in films. Career spanned several decades, with significant contributions to British entertainment. Starred as a cast member in the television series 'Bless This House', portraying a memorable matriarch. Appeared in various films and stage productions, showcasing versatility in a range of roles. Continued to perform well into later years, exhibiting a commitment to the craft.

Continue Reading

Herb Thomas

Race car driver and NASCAR champion
Born
April 6th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent figure in American auto racing, this individual achieved notable success in NASCAR during the 1950s. He secured two Grand National championships and became a highly respected driver known for his skill and competitive spirit. Throughout the career, he participated in numerous races, including the prestigious Daytona 500. His contributions to the sport and successful performances earned a reputation as one of the early stars of NASCAR.

Continue Reading

William E. Simon

American politician and Treasury Secretary
Born
November 27th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 73 years old

Served as the 63rd Secretary of the Treasury from 1974 to 1977 under President Gerald Ford. Previously served as a United States Army soldier during World War II. Played a significant role in combating inflation and managing economic policies during a challenging economic period in the 1970s. Alongside political duties, held influential positions in various business enterprises and contributed to public policy discussions related to fiscal responsibility.

Continue Reading

Marguerite Churchill

American actress in horror films
Born
December 26th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 90 years old

Acted in several horror films during the 1930s and 1940s. Gained recognition for performances in major productions, particularly in 'The Devil Bat' and 'The Monster Maker'. Appeared in additional genres, showcasing a range of abilities in film. Developed a significant career in the entertainment industry before transitioning to television appearances.

Continue Reading

Denis Gifford

Journalist and historian of British cinema
Born
December 26th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed significantly to the documentation of British film history. Worked as a journalist and film critic, engaging with various publications. Authored several books on cinema, focusing on British films and their impact. Served as a commentator on film-related topics and provided insights into the evolution of the film industry in the UK.

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

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.

Continue Reading