What Happened This Year 1919

Born in 1919

Bill Idelson

Actor and writer for 'The Dick Van Dyke Show'
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2007 18 years ago — 88 years old

An American actor, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to television in the mid-20th century. Played various roles on 'The Dick Van Dyke Show', gaining recognition for comedic talents. Worked as a writer for shows including 'The Monkees' and 'The Phil Silvers Show'. Later, produced and directed numerous television projects, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry. In addition to acting, involved in off-screen endeavors that enhanced television production during a transformative period.

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Tom Harmon

Football player and sportscaster
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1990 35 years ago — 71 years old

An American football player and later a sportscaster, achieved prominence in the 1940s. Played as a halfback for the University of Michigan, leading the team to a national championship in 1947. Received the Heisman Trophy in 1940. After college football, transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting, notably covering sports events. Gained recognition for insightful commentary and analysis during broadcasts.

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Lino Ventura

Italian-French actor in classic films
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1987 38 years ago — 68 years old

An Italian-French actor recognized for significant roles in French cinema. Spent early life in Italy before relocating to France. Transitioned from professional wrestling to film, gaining prominence in the 1960s. Gained renown for performances in films such as 'The Godfather: Part III', 'Les Misérables', and 'The Sicilian Clan'. Worked with notable directors like Jacques Becker and Henri Verneuil. Retired from acting in the late 1980s.

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İsmail Erez

Turkish diplomat, Ambassador to France
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
October 24th, 1975 50 years ago — 56 years old

Engaged in diplomatic service, held the position of Turkish Ambassador to France. Contributed to strengthening Turkey's diplomatic relationships during a pivotal era. Involved in various negotiations and international discussions, enhancing Turkey's presence in France and Europe. His tenure was marked by efforts to navigate complex geopolitical climates.

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Tom Addington

English soldier
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2011 14 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a soldier in the British Army and achieved recognition within military circles. Participated in various campaigns and was involved in peacekeeping operations. Developed strategies that contributed to military training programs. Retired with a notable reputation for leadership and tactical expertise.

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Hans Hermann Groër

Austrian cardinal and church leader
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2003 22 years ago — 84 years old

Served as a prominent leader within the Roman Catholic Church in Austria, providing guidance and oversight to its activities. Ordained as a priest in 1951, took on various roles within the church hierarchy. Appointed as the Archbishop of Vienna in 1986, held this position until 1995. Advocated for religious education and church outreach, contributing to discussions on faith and social issues. Participated in numerous ecclesiastical conferences, representing the Vatican's interests domestically and internationally. Resigned amidst controversy and criticism over his handling of church matters.

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Mikhail Kalashnikov

Weapons designer of the AK-47 rifle
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 94 years old

A general in the Soviet Army and a prominent weapons designer, the leading work centered around the development of the AK-47 assault rifle. Designed in the late 1940s, the AK-47 became widely adopted by military forces globally. Later contributions included the development of other small arms, showcasing innovative engineering and design principles. Kalashnikov's work significantly influenced modern firearms and military tactics, making the AK-47 one of the most recognized weapons in the world. His career not only encompassed military service but also involvement in various arms production enterprises in Russia during the Cold War period.

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James M. Buchanan

Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2013 13 years ago — 94 years old

An economist and academic focused on public choice theory. Played a crucial role in establishing the field of political economy, exploring how economic analysis can be applied to political decision-making. Served as a professor at George Mason University and held positions at several other institutions. Regarded for contributions to the understanding of the mechanisms of government and markets. Awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1986 for work on non-technical economics.

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Ross Bagdasarian

Singer-songwriter and creator of Chipmunks
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1972 54 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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