What Happened This Year 1919

Born in 1919

David Willcocks

English organist and choir conductor
Born
December 30th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2015 9 years ago — 95 years old

An esteemed organist, composer, and conductor, had a significant influence on church music and choral performance in England. Served as director of music at King's College, Cambridge, where contributions included the establishment of the annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. Worked extensively with various choirs and composed a range of choral works, enhancing the repertoire with arrangements of traditional carols and hymns. Held positions with renowned institutions and contributed to numerous recordings that showcased choral music.

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Carmen Contreras-Bozak

Puerto Rican-American soldier and veteran
Born
December 31st, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 98 years old

Born in Puerto Rico, served in the United States Army during World War II. Joined the Women's Army Corps and participated in key military operations. Contributed to the war effort while facing challenges as a Latina in a predominantly male environment. After military service, became an advocate for veterans’ rights and worked to improve benefits for women in the military. Retired with recognition for her service and dedication to the Army.

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Tommy Byrne

Baseball player and coach
Born
December 31st, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 88 years old

A former professional baseball player and coach, achieved significant success as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Played for the New York Yankees and the Chicago White Sox. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from playing, contributing to the development of future players in the sport. Additionally involved in politics, serving in the New York State Assembly. His multifaceted career included athletic achievement and public service.

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Masao Takemoto

Japanese Gymnast and Olympic Medalist
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2007 18 years ago — 88 years old

Competed in gymnastics, representing Japan. Achieved notable success at the 1960 Rome Olympics, where won a gold medal in team gymnastics and a bronze medal in the vault event. Contributed to the development of gymnastics in Japan, influencing future generations of athletes. Continued involvement in the sport after retirement, focusing on coaching and mentorship.

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Helen Tobias-Duesberg

Estonian-American composer and conductor
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2010 15 years ago — 91 years old

Born in Estonia, this composer moved to the United States, where a robust career in music flourished. Contributions to both contemporary classical music and choral works defined her journey as a composer. In addition to original compositions, she collaborated with various orchestras and conducted numerous performances across the country. The unique blend of her Estonian heritage with American musical influences created a distinctive style recognized in many of her works. She dedicated much of her later life to teaching and inspiring younger musicians.

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Peter Abrahams

South African-Jamaican author
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1919 in South Africa and later moving to Jamaica, contributed significantly to literature with a focus on the complexities of identity and race. His writing career spanned several decades, during which he produced numerous novels, essays, and short stories. Works often highlighted the struggles of individuals in a racially divided society. Achieved recognition for a blend of autobiographical and fictional narratives, often drawing from personal experiences and historical context. The body of work includes influential titles that addressed social issues, particularly in post-colonial contexts.

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Ella Grasso

Governor of Connecticut
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1981 44 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the 83rd Governor of Connecticut from 1975 until 1981. First woman elected governor in the United States, as well as the first female governor of Connecticut. Held various positions in the state’s government prior to her governorship, including state representative and state senator. Focused on social issues and environmental protection during time in office.

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Georgia Carroll

Singer, model, and actress from America
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2011 14 years ago — 92 years old

A notable singer, model, and actress, contributed to the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century. Gained significant recognition as a singer and performed in various venues and recordings. Worked as a model and appeared in several notable films, enhancing visibility in both music and film. Also featured in the 1940s film 'The Big Store' alongside the Marx Brothers. In addition to her entertainment career, participated in various modeling assignments and projects, establishing a visible presence in the fashion industry. Her multifaceted career spread across singing, modeling, and acting, securing a place in the cultural landscape of the time.

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Marion Hutton

American singer, The Andrews Sisters
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1987 38 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent American singer emerged in the 1940s. Gained recognition as a member of The Andrews Sisters, a highly successful vocal group that blended harmonies in the pop and swing music genres. Contributed to the group’s multiple chart-topping hits, including 'Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy'. Pursued a solo career after the group disbanded, featuring in various performances and recordings. Continued to perform and record music, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry until later life.

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