What Happened This Year 1919

Born in 1919

Wally Stanowski

Ice hockey player with the Maple Leafs
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2015 9 years ago — 96 years old

Played professional ice hockey primarily in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a forward. Competed for teams such as the Toronto Maple Leafs and the New York Rangers. Won the Stanley Cup in 1942 with the Maple Leafs. Concluded career in the 1950s, concluding in the minor leagues. Inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame for contributions to the sport.

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Van T. Barfoot

American colonel, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2012 13 years ago — 93 years old

A colonel in the United States Army, served during World War II and the Korean War. Awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in the Italian Campaign in 1944. His actions during the Battle of Anzio involved single-handedly destroying multiple enemy machine gun positions, which significantly contributed to the success of his unit's mission. Additionally, held various leadership roles within the military throughout a dedicated career. After retirement, lived in Virginia and became known for advocating veteran's issues.

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Reidar Haaland

Norwegian police officer and soldier
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1945 79 years ago — 26 years old

Served as a police officer and soldier in Norway during the early 20th century. Participated in various military operations and law enforcement activities. Contributed to Norway's security efforts during World War II. His service continued until the end of the war, showcasing dedication to duty.

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Roger Hilsman

American soldier and politician
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 95 years old

Served as a United States Army officer during World War II. Held various academic positions in political science and international relations, contributing to the literature in those fields. Worked within the U.S. government, including a role in the State Department during the Vietnam War era. Advocated for peace and responsible policy measures in contentious geopolitical contexts.

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Mike Stepovich

American politician, Governor of Alaska
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 95 years old

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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Bahriye Üçok

Turkish sociologist and politician
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1990 34 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent Turkish sociologist and politician, engaged in various academic and political activities throughout a career spanning several decades. Focused on women's rights, education, and social issues, contributing significantly to social sciences in Turkey. Served in the Turkish Parliament, advocating for progressive policies. Conducted extensive research in sociology, analyzing cultural and social dynamics within Turkish society. Played a crucial role in the establishment of sociological education in Turkey, influencing a generation of scholars.

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Mordechai Anielewicz

Polish commander of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1943 81 years ago — 24 years old

Served as a commander in the Jewish Fighting Organization during World War II. Led the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising against Nazi forces in April 1943. Coordinated resistance efforts in one of the most significant uprisings in occupied Europe. Anielewicz and his group faced severe challenges due to overwhelming odds and limited resources, ultimately leading to the destruction of the ghetto. Died during the uprising on May 8, 1943, while fighting against the Nazis.

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P. F. Strawson

Philosopher and author of 'Individuals'
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2006 19 years ago — 87 years old

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.

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Eric Lomax

Scottish captain and author of 'The Railway Man'
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
October 8th, 2012 12 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a British Army officer during World War II. Captured by Japanese forces and became a prisoner of war, enduring harsh treatment while forced to build the Burma Railway. After the war, authored 'The Railway Man', detailing his experiences and struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder. The book was adapted into a feature film, further bringing attention to the events of his life and the broader themes of trauma and reconciliation.

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