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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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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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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Mingote

Cartoonist and journalist in Spain
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 2012 12 years ago — 93 years old

A Spanish cartoonist and journalist contributed to various publications with a distinctive style. Regularly published cartoons in leading newspapers and magazines, offering sharp social and political commentary. Also worked as a writer, authoring several books, some of which focused on humor and satire. Mingote received recognition for the ability to blend artistic expression with incisive critique, forming a unique voice in Spanish journalism until passing away in 2012.

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Tim Babcock

Soldier and 16th Governor of Montana
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2015 9 years ago — 96 years old

Served as the 16th Governor of Montana from 1961 to 1969. Joined the United States Army during World War II and rose to the rank of Major. Initiated several educational and infrastructure programs during governorship. After leaving office, remained active in politics and public affairs in Montana.

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Jean Vander Pyl

Voice actress from The Flintstones
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1999 25 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent voice actress and actress, contributed to character voices in animated television series and films. Gained recognition for voicing Wilma Flintstone in the classic animated series The Flintstones. Provided voice work for several other animated shows including portraying characters in The Jetsons and The Smurfs. Also had a career in live-action television and film, making appearances in series such as I Love Lucy and The Brady Bunch.

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Reed Whittemore

American poet and literary critic
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2012 12 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed significantly to American poetry and literary criticism. Served as the poetry editor for the American Review. Published numerous collections of poetry, reflecting a modernist style. Held academic positions, teaching at universities and influencing students in literature. Worked as a critic, reviewing and analyzing the works of contemporaries and established poets. Authored a biography of Robert Frost, further enriching the field of literary analysis.

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Arjan Singh

Marshal of the Indian Air Force
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2017 7 years ago — 98 years old

Served as the Marshal of the Indian Air Force with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Commissioned into the Royal Indian Air Force in 1938, held various key positions including Chief of Air Staff from 1966 to 1969. Commanded IAF operations during the 1965 Indo-Pakistan War and played a significant role in strategic planning and execution. Oversaw modernization programs within the air force which enhanced operational capabilities. Received several honors including the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second highest civilian award, for outstanding service.

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Juan H. Cintrón García

Puerto Rican politician and businessman
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 2012 12 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the 126th Mayor of Ponce from 2001 to 2005. Was involved in various business ventures prior to entering politics. Led initiatives aimed at improving local infrastructure and economic development in Ponce. Established community programs and services during tenure as mayor.

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