What Happened This Year 2000

People Who Died in 2000

Konrad Kujau

German illustrator and forger
Born
June 27th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 62 years old

An illustrator and forger, gained notoriety for creating fake Adolf Hitler diaries in the 1980s. The forgeries were presented as genuine documents, attracting significant media attention. They contributed to a high-profile scandal and raised questions about authenticity in journalism and publishing. The diaries were published by Stern magazine, leading to widespread debate over their legitimacy. Kujau's life inspired various discussions regarding art, forgery, and historical documentation, highlighting the intersection of creativity and deception.

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Tommy Collins

Country music singer-songwriter, 'Hot Rod' Collins
Born
September 28th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 70 years old

This individual contributed significantly to the country music genre, especially in the 1950s and 1960s. Active as a singer-songwriter, the work included writing and performing numerous songs that resonated with audiences. 'Hot Rod' marked a pivotal moment, reaching the top of the country charts. Collaborations with other artists helped shape the sound of Nashville during this era.

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Meredith MacRae

American actress from 'Petticoat Junction'
Born
May 30th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 56 years old

MacRae was an American actress notable for her roles in television series. She starred as Betty Jo Bradley in 'Petticoat Junction', which aired from 1963 to 1970. In addition to this iconic role, she appeared in the series 'My Three Sons' and 'The Brady Bunch'. Additionally, MacRae hosted several game shows, showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry. Her career spanned multiple decades, marked by engagement in both acting and television hosting.

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Libertad Lamarque

Argentinian actress and singer of tango
Born
November 24th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 92 years old

An influential actress and singer, she emerged in the film industry during the 1930s, pioneering the integration of tango music into cinema. Contributions to Argentine culture include starring roles in classic films such as 'El alma de la ciudad' and 'María Rosa'. Throughout a prolific career, she also recorded numerous tango songs, enriching the genre's appeal in both film and performance. She continued to perform and engage audiences well into her later years, becoming a cultural icon in Argentina.

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Niels Viggo Bentzon

Danish composer and pianist
Born
August 24th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 81 years old

Active during the 20th century, contributions included compositions for piano, orchestral works, and chamber music. Musical education and a deep understanding of classical and contemporary styles informed all works. Collaborated with various artists and performed throughout Europe. Received recognition for contributions to Danish music, and devoted significant time to teaching music, influencing future generations of musicians.

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Vicki Sue Robinson

American actress and singer
Born
May 31st, 1954 70 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 46 years old

Began a career in the entertainment industry in the 1970s. Achieved success as a singer with the disco hit 'Turn the Beat Around' in 1976, which became a classic of the genre. Also worked as an actress, appearing in productions such as 'The Roxy' and 'The Ed Sullivan Show'. Contributed to the Broadway theatre scene through performances in various musical productions.

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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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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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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.

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