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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Denis Avey

Soldier and author of memoir
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2015 9 years ago — 96 years old

Served as a soldier during World War II and participated in the liberation of a concentration camp. Worked as an engineer post-war and later authored a memoir detailing experiences as a prisoner of war in Nazi Germany. The book shed light on the conditions faced by soldiers and captured individuals during the conflict, drawing from personal experiences.

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Jack Goody

English anthropologist and author
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2015 9 years ago — 96 years old

An English anthropologist and author who contributed significantly to social anthropology. His academic work focused on the oral and written traditions of cultures, exploring the impact of literacy on society. Goody's books and studies often analyzed the relationships between technology, culture, and social structure. He held a professorship at the University of Cambridge and engaged in extensive fieldwork in West Africa, particularly in Ghana. His studies on the intersection of oral traditions and written language helped to shape modern anthropological thought.

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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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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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Les Munro

New Zealand soldier and pilot
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
August 4th, 2015 9 years ago — 96 years old

Served as a pilot in the Royal New Zealand Air Force during World War II. Participated in the famous Operation Chastise, which targeted German dams in 1943 using the iconic Lancaster bombers. Munro was a key member of 617 Squadron, also known as the Dambusters, which played a significant role in military aviation history. After the war, he contributed to various aviation endeavors and remained active in the veteran community until his passing.

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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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