What Happened This Year 1919

Born in 1919

Jimmy Newberry

American baseball pitcher
Born
June 26th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
1983 42 years ago — 64 years old

An American professional baseball pitcher, participation occurred primarily in Major League Baseball during the 1940s and 1950s. Played for the Chicago Cubs and the Philadelphia Phillies. Made notable contributions as a relief pitcher, known for a strong fastball and effective slider. His career spanned several seasons in which he competed at a high level in various games.

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Amala Shankar

Indian danseuse and choreographer
Born
June 27th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 101 years old

An Indian danseuse and choreographer, recognized for contributions to classical dance forms. Initiated training in dance at an early age, studying under notable masters of the art. Founded her own dance company, promoting traditional Indian dance and creating a unique style that blended various influences. Assisted in the preservation and propagation of dance forms through performances and educational workshops. Worked in collaboration with renowned artists and institutions, helping to elevate the profile of Indian dance globally.

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Lloyd Richards

Theatre director and actor of A Raisin in the Sun
Born
June 29th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
June 29th, 2006 18 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1919, this Canadian-American theatre director and actor significantly influenced American theatre. Contributions included directing the Broadway premiere of 'A Raisin in the Sun,' which highlighted the African American experience. Served as the artistic director of the National Theatre Company in Washington, D.C., and was dean of the graduate acting program at the University of California, San Diego. Worked extensively with playwrights such as August Wilson, helping to elevate their works on stage.

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Slim Pickens

Actor and rodeo performer in Western films
Born
June 29th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1983 41 years ago — 64 years old

An American actor and rodeo performer, gained recognition for distinctive roles in Western films. Worked as a rodeo performer before transitioning to acting, quickly establishing a career in Hollywood. Starred in several classic Westerns and became widely recognized for a notable role in the film 'Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb'. The portrayal of a cowboy pilot contributed to the film's unique comedic tone.

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Walter Babington Thomas

Commander of British Far East Land Forces
Born
June 29th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1919, this military leader served as the Commander of British Far East Land Forces during the critical years of the post-World War II era. His tenure included overseeing military operations and establishing defense strategies in the region. The leadership demonstrated during this time contributed to the British military presence and strategy in Asia, as well as international military relations during a period of significant change.

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Ernesto Corripio y Ahumada

Mexican cardinal and religious leader
Born
June 29th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a cardinal in the Catholic Church and held significant positions within the church hierarchy in Mexico. His tenure included roles such as the Archbishop of Mexico City and participation in the Second Vatican Council. Contributed to the church's engagement in social and political issues within Mexico, emphasizing the need for dialogue and reform. His leadership also involved efforts to address key issues affecting the Mexican society and the Catholic community.

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Ed Yost

Inventor of the modern hot air balloon
Born
June 30th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2007 17 years ago — 87 years old

An American inventor contributed to the development of the modern hot air balloon. In the 1950s, created the first successful helium-filled hot air balloon, which led to advancements in the design and safety of ballooning. The innovations changed the way hot air balloons were constructed and operated, making them more accessible for recreational use, as well as competitive events. Actively participated in and promoted the sport of ballooning, significantly influencing its popularity.

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Arnold Meri

Estonian colonel during WWII
Born
July 1st, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1919, an Estonian military officer served as a colonel during World War II. Participated in significant battles on the Eastern Front, notably in the defense of Estonia against Soviet forces. After the war, continued to be involved in military affairs and was recognized for strategic leadership and tactical expertise. Post-war, lived in exile due to the political situation in Estonia. Contributed to the preservation of Estonian culture and military history.

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Malik Dohan al-Hassan

Iraqi politician and military leader
Born
July 1st, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 102 years old

Born in 1919, a significant figure in Iraq's political landscape, he served as the Minister of Defense and played a pivotal role during the 1958 Iraqi Revolution. The revolution led to the establishment of a republic in Iraq, ending the monarchy. Al-Hassan was involved in various military and political roles during a transformative period in Iraqi history. He contributed to shaping Iraq's military policies and governance in the subsequent years, often navigating the complexities of regional politics.

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