What Happened This Year 1919

Born in 1919

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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P. F. Strawson

Philosopher and author of 'Individuals'
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2006 20 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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Lolita Lebrón

Puerto Rican-American activist
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2010 15 years ago — 91 years old

An activist dedicated to the independence of Puerto Rico, led a group that stormed the U.S. Capitol in 1954 to advocate for Puerto Rican self-determination. Spent time in prison for this action, raising awareness about Puerto Rican issues. Throughout life, emphasized the struggles faced by Puerto Ricans and worked to promote their rights both in the United States and abroad.

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Ella Grasso

Governor of Connecticut
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1981 45 years ago — 62 years old

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.

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Violet Milstead

Canadian World War II aviator
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2014 11 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 107 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2006 19 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 107 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2007 18 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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Helen Tobias-Duesberg

Estonian-American composer and conductor
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2010 16 years ago — 91 years old

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.

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