What Happened This Year 1919

Born in 1919

Joop den Uyl

Dutch Prime Minister and economist
Born
August 9th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1987 37 years ago — 68 years old

Served as Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1973 to 1977. Den Uyl was an influential figure in Dutch politics, leading the Labour Party. Focused on social justice and economic reform, he advocated for progressive policies in education and healthcare. He played a crucial role in the formation of a government coalition that included the socialist and ecological parties, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in governance. Den Uyl's tenure was marked by the oil crisis of the 1970s, which had significant economic implications for the country. After his political career, he remained active in public life, contributing to various social and political discussions until his passing.

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Ralph Houk

Baseball manager and player, Yankees
Born
August 9th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2010 14 years ago — 90 years old

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball and managed the New York Yankees. Played from 1947 to 1953. Managed the Yankees from 1961 to 1963, leading the team to a World Series championship in 1961. Also managed the Detroit Tigers and the Boston Red Sox during a career spanning several decades.

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Luis Olmo

Baseball player and manager, Brooklyn Dodgers
Born
August 11th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 98 years old

Born in Puerto Rico, a significant player in Major League Baseball primarily during the 1940s. Played for the Brooklyn Dodgers and the Philadelphia Phillies. Transitioned into managing after retiring as a player, guiding several teams including the San Juan Senators. Contributed to the development of baseball in Puerto Rico.

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Vikram Sarabhai

Indian physicist and space program founder
Born
August 12th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1971 53 years ago — 52 years old

A prominent Indian physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the development of India's space and satellite programs. Played a crucial role in establishing the Indian National Committee for Space Research, which later evolved into the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Instrumental in the launch of the country's first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975. Actively supported the establishment of institutions in various scientific disciplines and promoted the application of science and technology for the development of India.

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Margaret Burbidge

Astrophysicist and academic pioneer
Born
August 12th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 101 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of stellar nucleosynthesis and galaxy formation. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Burbidge-Strong-McClure model, which explains the formation of elements in stars. Served as a professor at several prominent institutions, including the University of California, San Diego, and the University of California, Berkeley. Actively participated in numerous scientific organizations and initiatives, advocating for women in science throughout her career. Collaborated with notable scientists to produce influential research papers that shaped modern astrophysics.

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George Shearing

Jazz Pianist and Composer, 'Lullaby of Birdland'
Born
August 13th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2011 14 years ago — 91 years old

An English-American pianist and composer, noted for pioneering the art of jazz piano. Grew up in London, where a visual impairment shaped musical style. Moved to the United States in 1947 and gained recognition for unique arrangements that blended swing, bebop, and classical elements. Formed the George Shearing Quintet, achieving commercial success in the 1950s. Founded the popular standard 'Lullaby of Birdland', which became a jazz classic. Collaborated with numerous prominent jazz musicians and maintained a prolific recording career, spanning several decades until retiring in the mid-2000s.

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Rex Humbard

Evangelist and television host
Born
August 13th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2007 17 years ago — 88 years old

An American evangelist and television host, played a significant role in the development of religious broadcasting. Founded the Cathedral of Tomorrow in Akron, Ohio, which became a notable church and television venue. Produced and hosted the popular television program 'The Rex Humbard Show' that reached millions of viewers during the 1970s and 1980s. His ministry emphasized faith healing and prosperity teachings, attracting a wide audience across the United States.

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Benedict Kiely

Irish journalist and author
Born
August 15th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent Irish journalist and author, contributed significantly to literature and media in Ireland. Worked for various newspapers and wrote several novels and short stories. Key themes included Irish culture, history, and landscape. Engaged in literary discussions and helped promote Irish literature through various platforms.

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Huntz Hall

American actor in comedy films
Born
August 15th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1999 26 years ago — 79 years old

An actor recognized for comedic performances in films and television, including the 'Bowery Boys' series. Active primarily from the 1930s to the 1950s, contributed to the popularity of the low-budget comedy genre during that era. Frequently collaborated with other actors in the series, establishing a notable presence in American cinema.

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