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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Pratap Chandra Chunder

Indian educator and politician
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2008 17 years ago — 89 years old

An educator and politician played a vital role in the development of educational policies in India. Served as the Minister of Education in West Bengal. Contributed to various educational reforms aimed at improving literacy rates and access to education. Promoted the establishment of higher education institutions and developed curricula focused on modern learning techniques. Engaged in public discourse on educational issues and worked towards integrating innovative practices in schools.

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Dayton Allen

Comedian and voice actor of cartoons
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
November 11th, 2004 20 years ago — 85 years old

A comedic performer and voice actor, contributed to the field of animation and comedy from the mid-20th century. Voiced characters in prominent cartoons, including 'The Howdy Doody Show' and 'The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle'. Worked as a comedian in radio and television, blending humor with various media formats. Later years included performances on stage and in television shows, showcasing versatility in comedic styles.

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Gerhard Ringel

Mathematician known for graph theory contributions
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
June 24th, 2008 16 years ago — 89 years old

Austrian mathematician contributed significantly to the fields of graph theory and topology. Held a position at the University of Vienna and published numerous papers advancing the understanding of combinatorial structures. Conducted research on the Ringel-Kotzig conjecture and worked on topics related to map colorings. Played a key role in the development of the mathematical theories related to these areas, influencing subsequent studies and applications in mathematics.

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Christoph Probst

German activist and member of the White Rose
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1943 82 years ago — 24 years old

A key member of the White Rose resistance group, played a role in challenging the Nazi regime through anti-war pamphlets. Probst was a medical student and contributed to the group's efforts to expose the atrocities committed by the Nazis. Arrested in 1943, faced trial, and executed shortly thereafter. The White Rose is remembered for its courage in speaking out against totalitarianism.

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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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Gilbert Esau

American businessman and politician
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2012 12 years ago — 93 years old

Established a career in business and public service. Served as a prominent figure in local government, holding the position of mayor in his community. Engaged in various commercial ventures contributing to regional development. Demonstrated leadership in enhancing local infrastructure and promoting business interests.

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