What Happened This Year 2000

People Who Died in 2000

James Andrew Harris

Chemist and academic in polymer science
Born
March 26th, 1932 93 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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Hwang Sun-won

North Korean author and poet
Born
March 26th, 1915 110 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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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.

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Bob McFadden

American voice-over actor and singer
Born
January 19th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent voice-over actor and singer, contributed significantly to animation and commercials. Became well recognized for distinctive voice performances in various television shows and films. Gained acclaim as a voice of characters in popular cartoons during the mid-20th century. Engaged in voice roles for series such as 'The Jetsons' and 'The Flintstones.' Worked as a singer, showcasing a range of vocal talent in multiple genres throughout a career spanning several decades.

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Paula Wessely

Austrian actress and producer
Born
January 20th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 93 years old

Acted in significant roles in Austrian cinema and theater during the mid-20th century. Gained prominence in films such as 'The Broken Jug' and 'The Eternal Mask'. Served as a producer, influencing the production of various theatrical works while maintaining a successful acting career. Contributed to the development of Austrian arts and culture through various collaborations and performances.

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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.

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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.

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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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John O'Connor

American cardinal and religious leader
Born
January 15th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 80 years old

Served as the eighth Archbishop of New York from 1984 until death in 2000. Ordained as a priest in 1945, contributed to various facets of church and society. Participated in the Second Vatican Council and engaged in numerous humanitarian efforts. Advocated for social justice, education, and religious liberty throughout tenure in the Archdiocese. His leadership was marked by a strong stance against issues such as abortion and assisted suicide, positioning the church in public debates on these topics.

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