A New Millennium

January 1: In New Zealand, the 32,754 population of Gisbourne are the first to see in a new millennium.

January 1: In London, new millennium celebrations take place and the Millennium Dome is officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II.

January 1: The “Year 2000 Problem” arises, which eventually and wrongly changes computerised system dates to incorrect dates.

January 10: An agreement to purchase Time Warner for $162 billion is announced by America Online, becoming the biggest-ever corporate merger.

January 13: Bill Gates, the chairman of Microsoft steps aside as chief executive of the company and Steve Ballmer is promoted from company president to this position.

January 23: At the 57th Golden Globe Awards, Denzil Washington wins Best Actor, Hilary Swank wins Best Actress, American Beauty wins Best Drama Motion Picture, and Toy Story 2 wins Best Musical or Comedy Motion Picture.