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 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 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 ReadingYang Yongsong
Served as a Major General in the Chinese military. Contributed to various strategic military initiatives and operations. Held significant leadership positions during his career, influencing military tactics and policies within the armed forces. Required oversight of critical defense projects along with training and developing military personnel. His career spanned several decades, reflecting a commitment to national defense and military readiness.
Continue ReadingMasao Takemoto
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.
Continue ReadingHelen Tobias-Duesberg
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.
Continue ReadingElla Grasso
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.
Continue ReadingP. F. Strawson
Contributed significantly to analytic philosophy, particularly in metaphysics and philosophy of language. Focused on understanding the nature of individual thought and reference. Published influential works, including 'Individuals', which explored concepts of identity and the structure of the self. Engaged with major philosophical problems regarding meaning and truth, influencing future discourse in the field. Played a fundamental role in shaping the conversation around ordinary language philosophy.
Continue ReadingMike Stepovich
Served as the last Governor of the Alaska Territory from 1957 until statehood in 1959. Contributed to the transition of Alaska from a territory to the 49th state. Played a significant role in the development of state laws and governance during this transition period. After becoming a state, continued a career in law and local politics, influencing various local government functions.
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