What Happened This Year 1919

Born in 1919

George Wallace

American politician, 45th Governor of Alabama
Born
August 25th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1998 26 years ago — 79 years old

Served as Governor of Alabama across four non-consecutive terms. Promoted a platform of segregation and states' rights during the civil rights movement. Gained national attention for a speech at the University of Alabama in 1963, where he stood in opposition to federal desegregation efforts. After a failed presidential campaign in 1972, continued to serve in Alabama politics and made efforts to reshape his image and policies in later years.

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Gerard Campbell

American priest and academic leader
Born
August 26th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a prominent priest and academic, contributing to theological education and religious discourse. Held various positions in ecclesiastical institutions, focusing on the intersection of faith and education. Engaged in scholarly activities, publishing works that discussed theology and philosophy. Played a significant role in the development of religious programs and initiatives, fostering a deeper understanding of spiritual matters within academic settings.

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Pee Wee Butts

Baseball player and coach, coached at Duke
Born
August 27th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 53 years old

An American baseball player and coach had a productive career in collegiate baseball. Served as the head baseball coach at Duke University, leading the team through numerous successful seasons. Contributed to baseball through coaching and mentoring young athletes. Played as an infielder during professional baseball career, demonstrating strong skills on the field.

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Godfrey Hounsfield

Biophysicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 28th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2004 20 years ago — 84 years old

This biophysicist and engineer contributed significantly to the field of medical imaging. Pioneered the development of computed tomography (CT) scanning technology in the 1970s. This innovation revolutionized diagnostic imaging, offering detailed cross-sectional images of the body. The work led to global improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions, facilitating better outcomes for patients.

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Maurice Hilleman

Microbiologist and vaccine developer
Born
August 30th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent microbiologist and vaccinologist contributed to the development of over 40 vaccines. Played a pivotal role in creating vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella, significantly reducing the incidence of these diseases. Spent a significant part of his career at Merck & Co., where research focused on vaccine safety and efficacy. Hilleman's work laid the foundation for modern immunology and has saved millions of lives globally.

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Wolfgang Wagner

German opera director and festival manager
Born
August 30th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2010 14 years ago — 90 years old

Operated the Bayreuth Festival, which features the works of Richard Wagner, from 1951 until 2008. Focused on innovative productions while maintaining traditional elements. Directed operas in various prestigious venues, contributing significantly to the interpretation of Wagner's compositions. Strove to balance modern interpretations with the integrity of the operatic tradition.

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Kitty Wells

Country music singer-songwriter
Born
August 30th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2012 12 years ago — 92 years old

A pioneering figure in country music, became the first female artist to have a number one hit on the country charts. Playlist offerings included heartfelt songs that resonated with audiences. Released the groundbreaking single "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels," which addressed women's experiences and challenges. Her style blended traditional country with a unique voice that influenced future generations of musicians.

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Amrita Pritam

Indian poet and author; acclaimed for poetry
Born
August 31st, 1919 105 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2005 19 years ago — 86 years old

Acclaimed as one of the leading poets in the Punjabi language. Began writing at a young age and gained prominence with her poetry collection 'Anwardan'. Became the first woman to receive the Sahitya Akademi Award for her contributions to literature. Her work often explored themes of love, loss, and the female experience, particularly during the partition of India. In 1982, received the Jnanpith Award, recognizing her significant contributions to Indian literature. She also wrote novels and essays, making significant contributions to both Indian literature and feminist discourse.

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Ossie Dawson

South African cricketer, Test player
Born
September 1st, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1919, a South African cricketer played as a right-hand batsman and wicketkeeper. Represented South Africa in Test matches from 1948 to 1957. Contributed significantly to the team during the early post-war era. Participated in the domestic circuit and achieved notable performances.

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