What Happened This Year 1919
Born in 1919
David Willcocks
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.
Continue ReadingCarmen Contreras-Bozak
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.
Continue ReadingTommy Byrne
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.
Continue ReadingDenis Avey
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.
Continue ReadingJack Goody
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.
Continue ReadingGilbert Esau
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.
Continue ReadingTim Babcock
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.
Continue ReadingLes Munro
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.
Continue ReadingMingote
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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