What Happened This Year 1919
Born in 1919
Gottfried Dienst
An accomplished football referee and player, officiated in major international tournaments. Played for FC Basel and served as a referee in FIFA World Cup matches. Recognized for contributions to the sport in both playing and officiating capacities. Refereed at the 1966 FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingLex van Delden
A prominent composer, contributed significantly to the Dutch music scene during the 20th century. His works spanned various forms including orchestral music, chamber music, and choral compositions. Developed a style that integrated traditional Dutch musical elements with contemporary techniques. Collaborated with various orchestras and musicians across Europe. Many compositions have been performed internationally, enhancing the visibility of Dutch music. Engaged in music education, shaping future musicians through teaching.
Continue ReadingMary Midgley
Contributed significantly to topics including ethics, animal rights, and environmental philosophy. Authored numerous works, with notable titles including 'Animal Experimentation: A Guide to the Issues' and 'Wisdom, Information, and Wonder'. Engaged actively in public discourse through essays and papers addressing the moral implications of science and technology. Proposed a holistic view of humanity's place in the world, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living beings. Served as an influential figure in contemporary philosophy for over half a century.
Continue ReadingGeorge Weidenfeld
Born in Austria, a significant role in journalism and publishing spanned several decades. Co-founded Weidenfeld & Nicolson, which became a prominent publishing house in the UK. Contributed to various humanitarian efforts, particularly related to refugee support, during and after World War II. Served as a prolific writer and commentator on political and cultural issues. Received the honorary title of Baron in the UK.
Continue ReadingKay Medford
An actress and singer contributed significantly to film and theatre. Gained recognition for the role of ‘Rose’ in the Broadway musical ‘Funny Girl’. Performed in various productions, showcasing vocal talent and acting skills. Appeared in films such as ‘The Music Man’ and ‘The Great Race’, further establishing a career in entertainment. Received nominations for various awards acknowledging performances in both film and stage. Later transitioned to television, with notable appearances in shows that reflected her musical prowess.
Continue ReadingOlga Lowe
Born in South Africa, an actress had a prominent career primarily in theatre and television. Active in the entertainment industry for several decades, roles included a notable performance in the British television series 'Crossroads'. The career spanned various productions both on stage and on screen, gaining recognition for versatility in roles. Throughout the years, involvement in both South African and British theatre contributed to a diverse portfolio of performances.
Continue ReadingHeda Margolius Kovály
Born in Prague in 1919, this figure experienced significant historical events, including the Holocaust and the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia. Writing autobiographically, her most prominent work, 'Under a Cruel Star', recounts personal experiences during the Nazi occupation and the ensuing repression. After emigrating to the United States in 1948, contributions to literature included translations of Czech literary works. An active participant in the literary community, engaged in discussions about totalitarianism and the human condition. Resided in the U.S. until her death in 2010.
Continue ReadingFausto Coppi
Cyclist and soldier from Italy. Achieved significant success in professional road cycling during the 1940s and 1950s. Earned victories in multiple prestigious races, including the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France. Coppi also participated in World War II as a soldier, which interrupted his cycling career for several years. After the war, returned to competitive cycling, solidifying a legacy as one of the sport's legends.
Continue ReadingLaurence J. Peter
An author and educator, contributed significantly to the field of management. Developed the Peter Principle, a concept stating that individuals rise to their level of incompetence in organizational hierarchies. Authored several books, with the most notable being 'The Peter Principle: Why Things Go Wrong in Organizations'. Engaged in academic and public speaking, providing insights into the dynamics of workplace structures and management failures.
Continue Reading