What Happened This Year 1919

Born in 1919

Douglas Albert Munro

Coast Guard signalman and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
October 11th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1942 82 years ago — 22 years old

Served as a signalman in the United States Coast Guard during World War II. Munro played a crucial role in the Battle of Guadalcanal, providing vital support during the evacuation of American forces. His actions on September 27, 1942, involved risking his life to save fellow service members, leading to his posthumous award of the Medal of Honor. Munro was the only Coast Guard service member to receive this high honor for actions in World War II.

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Art Blakey

Jazz drummer and bandleader, founded Jazz Messengers
Born
October 11th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1990 34 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in jazz, played in various bands before forming the Jazz Messengers in the late 1940s. The Jazz Messengers became a training ground for many notable jazz musicians. Blakey was known for his powerful drumming style and innovative approach to jazz performance. His band recorded numerous acclaimed albums and contributed to the development of hard bop, a subgenre of jazz that incorporates elements of rhythm and blues and gospel music.

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Gilles Beaudoin

Canadian politician, Mayor of Trois-Rivières
Born
October 12th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 88 years old

Became the 34th Mayor of Trois-Rivières, serving from 1966 to 1970. Focused on local governance and civic services during tenure. Engaged in community development initiatives aimed at advancing the city’s infrastructure and public amenities. Contributed to the political landscape of the region through active involvement in municipal affairs.

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Doris Miller

American soldier and cook in WWII
Born
October 12th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1943 81 years ago — 24 years old

Served in the United States Navy during World War II. Assigned to the USS West Virginia during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Displayed remarkable bravery by manning a machine gun, despite not being trained for such tasks. Awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism. Became the first African American to receive this honor in the Navy. Later became an icon of the contributions of African Americans in the military.

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Chuck Stevenson

Race car driver with Indianapolis 500 experience
Born
October 15th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1995 29 years ago — 75 years old

Competed in the Indianapolis 500 multiple times during the mid-20th century. Achieved a notable career in American open-wheel racing, participating in events that shaped the racing landscape. Stevenson was recognized for his skill in navigating challenging race courses and contributed to the popularity of the sport throughout his career. His dedication to racing and participation in prestigious events helped define his legacy.

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Malcolm Ross

American captain and balloonist
Born
October 15th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1985 39 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1919, a captain in the U.S. Army Air Forces and a prominent balloonist. Conducted significant scientific research in high-altitude balloon flights, contributing to meteorological studies. Participated in and led high-altitude missions that advanced understanding of the atmosphere. Worked alongside other scientists to develop various projects related to atmospheric research and the effects of altitude on living organisms.

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Kathleen Winsor

American journalist and author of Forever Amber
Born
October 16th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2003 21 years ago — 83 years old

An American journalist and author, produced a significant literary work that captured the attention of readers in the mid-20th century. The novel "Forever Amber" was published in 1944, providing a narrative set during the 17th century in England. The book followed the life and struggles of a beautiful young woman amidst the tumult of the time, becoming a bestseller and widely discussed for its themes and content. In addition to fiction, engaged in journalism, contributing articles to various publications, reflecting a combination of talent in both literary and journalistic fields.

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Isaak Khalatnikov

Theoretical Physicist and Academician
Born
October 17th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 102 years old

Born in 1919, a theoretical physicist made significant contributions to the fields of quantum field theory and cosmology. Developed the theory of gravitational waves and contributed to the understanding of the early universe. Held academic positions at various institutions in Russia, influencing generations of physicists. Authored numerous papers that advanced the field of theoretical physics.

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Zhao Ziyang

Chinese politician and premier
Born
October 17th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2005 20 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 3rd Premier of the People's Republic of China from 1980 to 1987. Played a significant role in economic reforms and opening up China's economy in the 1980s. Advocated for more political openness and was involved in the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989, which led to his removal from power and subsequent house arrest until his death in 2005.

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