What Happened This Year 1919

Born in 1919

Ross Bagdasarian

Singer-songwriter and creator of Chipmunks
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1972 53 years ago — 53 years old

A singer-songwriter, pianist, producer, and actor, created the animated music group Alvin and the Chipmunks. Created distinctive vocal techniques that led to the unique sound of the Chipmunks, contributing to significant popularity in the 1960s and 1970s. Influenced children's entertainment and music with innovative production methods. Provided the voices for the characters in various albums, television series, and films, establishing a long-lasting legacy in animation and family-friendly music.

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George E. P. Box

Statistician; inventor of Box-Jenkins models
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2013 11 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of statistics and was a prominent educator. Developed methods for time series analysis, particularly the Box-Jenkins method, which improved forecasting in various applications. Served at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and authored several influential books on statistics, including 'Statistics as a Language'. Promoted the use of graphical methods in data analysis and emphasized the importance of model building in statistical practice.

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June Spencer

English actress and radio personality
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
November 8th, 2024 0 years ago — 105 years old

An English actress and radio personality, had a significant role in the long-running BBC Radio 4 series 'The Archers' as Peggy Archer. Began her career in theatre, performing in various productions before transitioning to radio. Spencer also appeared in television shows such as 'The Forsyte Saga,' further solidifying her presence in British entertainment. Continued acting well into her later years, contributing to the longevity of the characters she portrayed.

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Violet Milstead

Canadian World War II aviator
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2014 10 years ago — 95 years old

A noted aviator and bush pilot during World War II, dedicated service involved transporting essential supplies and personnel. Milstead joined the Royal Canadian Air Force as a pilot, frequently flying hazardous missions in challenging conditions. Post-war, she continued to fly and contributed to aviation in Canada, enhancing services in the bush flying industry. Her legacy persists as a pioneer for women in aviation.

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Peter Rawlinson

Attorney General for England and Wales
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2006 18 years ago — 87 years old

Baron Rawlinson of Ewell served as Attorney General for England and Wales. His legal career included significant involvement in various high-profile cases. Active in politics, Rawlinson was appointed to the House of Lords where he contributed to legal reforms and legislation. He was a member of the Conservative Party and took part in discussions regarding legal policies and governmental changes.

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Angus Tait

Businessman, founder of Tait Communications
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2007 17 years ago — 88 years old

Founded Tait Communications, a global leader in radio communications technology. Under leadership, the company specialized in providing advanced communication solutions for various sectors, including public safety and transportation. Pioneered innovations in mobile and portable radio systems. Expanded business operations internationally, establishing a significant presence in multiple countries. Contributed to the development of telecommunications in New Zealand and abroad, leaving a legacy in the communication industry.

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Fred Katz

Cellist and composer with film scores
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
September 7th, 2013 11 years ago — 94 years old

A cellist and composer recognized for contributions to music both in concert settings and film. Katz gained prominence as a member of the Harry James Orchestra and later collaborated with Leonor Fani in the 1950s. In addition to performing, composed music for films such as 'The Man with the Golden Arm' and 'The Killing.' Made significant contributions to traditional and popular music, blending classical techniques with contemporary influences. Worked with various artists across different genres, enriching the musical landscape of the time.

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Pete Hoffman

American cartoonist with comic strips
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
September 7th, 2013 11 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed to the art of cartooning with various comic strips published in newspapers and magazines. Worked extensively during the mid-20th century, creating beloved characters that resonated with readers. Gained popularity for the innovative style and humor presented in the work. Left a notable legacy within the cartooning community upon passing in 2013.

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Charles Willeford

American author known for hardboiled fiction
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1988 36 years ago — 69 years old

An American author, poet, and critic, made significant contributions to the genre of hardboiled fiction. Willeford's literary career included writing novels, stories, and essays, often infusing his narratives with elements of crime and existential themes. His most recognized work, 'The Burnt Orange Heresy,' became a staple in the genre and was adapted into a film. Willeford also served as a soldier during World War II, experiences that influenced his writing. Additionally, he was a poet, contributing to various literary magazines and expressing his perspectives on society and life through his poetry.

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