What Happened This Year 2001

Historical Events from This Year 2001 (View all 122)

Economics & Industry

Greece Joins Eurozone as 12th Member

January 1st, 2001 24 years ago

Greece officially adopted the Euro as its currency, becoming the 12th country in the Eurozone. This transition marked a significant milestone in Greece's economic integration with Europe. The changeover was aimed at strengthening economic stability and enhancing trade within the Eurozone. The Euro was introduced on January 1, 2001, and Greece began circulating Euro banknotes and coins in January 2002.

Continue Reading
Entertainment

Downtown Disney Opens at Disneyland Resort

January 12th, 2001 24 years ago

Downtown Disney opened as a vibrant urban center at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, providing guests with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The area was designed to enhance the guest experience at the resort, bridging the gap between Disneyland Park and Disney's California Adventure. This dynamic outdoor space was celebrated for its family-friendly atmosphere and thematically immersive environments, drawing both tourists and locals to enjoy its attractions.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Devastating Earthquake Strikes El Salvador

January 13th, 2001 24 years ago

An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 struck El Salvador, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The earthquake occurred during the early morning hours, resulting in more than 800 fatalities and extensive damage to infrastructure, particularly in the city of San Vicente. Thousands of homes were rendered uninhabitable, leading to a humanitarian crisis as survivors sought shelter and aid in the aftermath. Rescue and recovery operations were launched quickly, with local and international organizations engaging in relief efforts.

Continue Reading
Science & Technology

Launch of the Wikipedia Encyclopedia

January 15th, 2001 24 years ago

Wikipedia, a free online encyclopedia, was launched in January 2001. It offered a platform for collaborative editing and crowd-sourced knowledge, allowing anyone with internet access to contribute and edit content. This innovative approach revolutionized how information was shared and accessed worldwide, fundamentally changing the landscape of the internet and online knowledge bases.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Assassination of President Laurent-Désiré Kabila

January 16th, 2001 24 years ago

Congolese President Laurent-Désiré Kabila was assassinated by one of his own bodyguards in Kinshasa. Kabila had been a pivotal figure in the Second Congo War, which saw various factions and foreign powers battling for control. His rise to power was marked by the overthrow of Mobutu Sese Seko in 1997, leading to attempts to stabilize a war-torn nation. The assassination reflected ongoing tensions and instability within the Congolese government and military structure.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Clinton Awards Roosevelt Posthumous Medal of Honor

January 16th, 2001 24 years ago

In a historic ceremony at the White House, President Bill Clinton awarded the Medal of Honor to former President Theodore Roosevelt for his courageous service during the Spanish–American War. This recognition was particularly significant as it honored Roosevelt's leadership of the Rough Riders, a volunteer cavalry regiment. The medal was awarded posthumously and attended by Roosevelt's family, symbolizing a long-overdue acknowledgment of his military contributions.

Continue Reading

Born in 2001 (View all 155)

Angourie Rice

Australian actress in The Nice Guys
Born
January 1st, 2001 24 years ago

Born in 2001, this Australian actress gained recognition for her performances in film and television. She debuted in the Australian film 'These Final Hours' in 2013. A breakout role occurred in 2016 with the film 'The Nice Guys,' where she played the character Holly March alongside established actors. Her talent has led to roles in various projects, including a prominent part in the HBO series 'The White Lotus' and the 'Spider-Man' franchise, including 'Spider-Man: Homecoming' and 'Spider-Man: Far From Home.'

Continue Reading

Winter

South Korean singer with aespa
Born
January 1st, 2001 24 years ago

Born in South Korea, a singer gained fame as a member of the girl group aespa. The group debuted in 2020 under SM Entertainment and quickly became popular with their unique concept that blended virtual and real-world elements. Released hits such as 'Black Mamba', 'Next Level', and 'Savage' contributed to the group's rising popularity in the K-pop scene. Known for distinct vocal abilities and engaging stage presence, Winter has attracted a large fanbase both domestically and internationally. The group has consistently achieved high chart positions and accolades in various music award ceremonies.

Continue Reading

Luiz Henrique

Brazilian footballer with Serie A experience
Born
January 2nd, 2001 24 years ago

Professional footballer started career at Fluminense and played as a forward. Joined the first team at the age of 18, making significant contributions during the 2019 season. Transferred to Europe in 2021, continuing development at a prominent club in Serie A. Competed in various national and international competitions, enhancing skills and gaining experience on a larger stage.

Continue Reading

Cole Caufield

Ice hockey player with Montreal Canadiens
Born
January 2nd, 2001 24 years ago

An ice hockey player, born in 2001, played for the Montreal Canadiens in the NHL following a standout college career at the University of Wisconsin. Caufield gained recognition for his goal-scoring ability and offensive skills. After being drafted 15th overall in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, he made his NHL debut in 2020. During the 2020-2021 season, he contributed significantly to the Canadiens' playoff run, helping the team reach the Stanley Cup Final. Caufield's performance established him as one of the league's rising stars.

Continue Reading

Deni Avdija

Israeli-Serbian basketball player
Born
January 3rd, 2001 24 years ago

Born in 2001, this player has established a career in professional basketball, playing in the NBA and representing his national team. After beginning his career in Israel, he made a significant move to the United States to join the Washington Wizards. Additionally, he played for the Israeli national team in various international competitions, showcasing his skills on a global stage.

Continue Reading

Odilon Kossounou

Ivorian footballer, played for Club Brugge
Born
January 4th, 2001 24 years ago

Born in Ivory Coast, a footballer plays as a defender. Started his professional career with the ASEC Mimosas club before moving to Europe. Joined Swedish club BK Häcken, where significant performances led to a transfer to Belgian club Club Brugge. In Belgium, contributed to the team's domestic success, including league titles. Has also represented the Ivory Coast national team.

Continue Reading

People Who Died in 2001 (View all 388)

Ernie Freeman

Pianist and bandleader, 'The Ernie Freeman Combo'
Born
August 16th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1981 43 years ago — 58 years old

An accomplished American pianist and bandleader, active primarily during the mid-20th century. Led 'The Ernie Freeman Combo', which gained significant popularity. Worked as a session musician and contributed to numerous recordings across genres, including rock and rhythm and blues. Collaborated with various artists, enhancing the sound of their music in the 1950s and 1960s. Freeman's style and arrangements were influential during this period.

Continue Reading

Ray Walston

American actor in 'My Favorite Martian'
Born
November 2nd, 1914 110 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2001 24 years ago — 86 years old

An American actor recognized for work in television and film. Gained prominence for the role of Uncle Martin in the television series 'My Favorite Martian', which aired from 1963 to 1966. Received critical acclaim for performances in various theatrical productions. Nominated for a Tony Award for his role in 'Bells Are Ringing'. Appeared in numerous films including 'Apollo 13' and 'Fast Times at Ridgemont High'.

Continue Reading

William P. Rogers

American Secretary of State and lawyer
Born
June 23rd, 1913 111 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2001 24 years ago — 87 years old

Served as the 55th United States Secretary of State under President Richard Nixon from 1969 to 1973. Played a significant role in formulating foreign policy during a time of great international tension. Participated in the peace negotiations that led to the Paris Peace Accords in 1973, which aimed to establish peace in Vietnam. Worked as a lawyer and held various positions in public service, contributing to legal and governmental affairs throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Les Brown

Band Leader, Composer, 'Les Brown and His Band of Renown'
Born
March 14th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2001 24 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent American bandleader and composer, influential in the big band era. Founded 'Les Brown and His Band of Renown', contributing significantly to the popular music of the time. The band gained recognition for its performances in radio and television, especially during the 1940s and 1950s. Worked extensively with notable singers and musicians, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry. Received awards and accolades for contributions to music and entertainment, cementing a place in American cultural history.

Continue Reading

James Carr

Soul Singer with 'The Dark End of the Street'
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2001 24 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent soul singer from the United States, achieved recognition in the 1960s. Gained popularity with the release of 'The Dark End of the Street,' which became a significant hit. Recorded several albums and singles throughout his career, showcasing a deep, emotive vocal style that resonated with audiences. Despite facing challenges in his personal life and career, maintained a devoted following. Continued to perform and record music until his death in 2001.

Continue Reading

Denys Lasdun

Architect, co-designed Royal National Theatre
Born
September 8th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2001 24 years ago — 86 years old

An English architect focused on modernist architecture and design. Co-designed the Royal National Theatre in London, a landmark example of brutalist architecture. His work emphasized the relationship between buildings and their surroundings, often integrating landscape into architectural forms. Worked on various educational buildings, cultural institutions, and residential projects throughout the UK. Received the Royal Institute of British Architects Gold Medal and was a member of the Royal Academy.

Continue Reading