What Happened This Year 2000

People Who Died in 2000

George Musso

American football player, police officer
Born
April 8th, 1910 115 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

Walter Krupinski

German fighter pilot and captain
Born
November 11th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 80 years old

Served as a Luftwaffe pilot during World War II. Achieved the rank of captain and became an ace fighter pilot, credited with numerous aerial victories. Fought in significant battles on the Eastern and Western fronts, showcasing skills in dogfighting and tactical air support. After the war, contributed to aviation as a test pilot and instructor in various capacities.

Continue Reading

Tommy Collins

Country music singer-songwriter, 'Hot Rod' Collins
Born
September 28th, 1930 95 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.

Continue Reading

Ram Vilas Sharma

Indian poet and literary critic
Born
October 10th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 88 years old

Contributed extensively to Hindi literature as a poet and critic. Focused on promoting Hindi language and literature through critical essays and anthologies. Wrote several poetry collections and played a crucial role in the literary movements of his time. Served as an editor for various literary magazines and platforms, influencing the next generation of writers and poets. Received accolades for contributions to Indian literature, highlighting the importance of cultural identity in poetry.

Continue Reading

Robert R. Gilruth

Spacecraft engineer and NASA director
Born
October 8th, 1913 112 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

Don Martin

Cartoonist of MAD magazine fame
Born
May 18th, 1931 94 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

Konrad Kujau

German illustrator and forger
Born
June 27th, 1938 87 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.

Continue Reading

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

Lída Baarová

Czech-Austrian actress in 'The Cat's Miaow'
Born
September 7th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1914, an actress gained prominence in European cinema during the 1930s. Featured in Czechoslovak films and later in German productions, achieved significant recognition for roles in ‘The Cat’s Miaow’ and ‘The Devil’s General’. Faced challenges during World War II due to personal associations and the political climate. Post-war career included work in lesser-known films and television. Continued to engage with fans and reflect on her experiences in the film industry throughout her life. Passed away in 2000, leaving behind a complex legacy in movie history.

Continue Reading