What Happened This Year 2000

People Who Died in 2000

Derroll Adams

Folk singer-songwriter and musician
Born
November 27th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2000 26 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

William E. Simon

American politician and Treasury Secretary
Born
November 27th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2000 26 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 115 years ago
Died
2000 26 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 98 years ago
Died
2000 26 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

Pops Staples

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
December 28th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 86 years old

A notable figure in American music, contributed significantly to the genre of gospel and rhythm and blues as the leader of The Staple Singers. Comprised of family members, the group blended spirituals with popular music, achieving widespread acclaim. The Staples gained recognition in the civil rights movement, often conveying messages of hope and resilience through music. Released many influential songs, including 'I'll Take You There', which became a Top 10 Pop hit in 1972. A skilled guitarist, played an instrumental role in shaping the sound and style of contemporary gospel.

Continue Reading

Margaret Hutchinson Rousseau

Chemical engineer and reactor designer
Born
October 27th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
2000 26 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 94 years ago
Died
2000 26 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

Vicki Sue Robinson

American actress and singer
Born
May 31st, 1954 71 years ago
Died
2000 26 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.

Continue Reading

Mars Rafikov

Soviet cosmonaut and pilot
Born
September 29th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1933, a Soviet pilot and cosmonaut completed significant missions during the Soviet space program. Participated in the Vostok mission, contributing to early human spaceflight efforts. Served in various capacities within the Soviet Air Force and dedicated time to training future cosmonauts. Achievements in aviation and space exploration contributed to advancements in pilot training and space missions.

Continue Reading