What Happened This Year 1919

Born in 1919

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.

Continue Reading

Samuel Jaskilka

American general and military leader
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2012 14 years ago — 93 years old

A general in the United States Army, contributed to various military operations during a distinguished career. Served in senior leadership positions and played a significant role in military strategy and planning. Oversaw training and preparedness of troops, ensuring readiness for deployment in both domestic and international missions. Jaskilka's leadership spanned over decades, influencing military policy and practices within the Army.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Steve Brodie

American actor in 1970s films
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1992 34 years ago — 73 years old

An American actor gained recognition for roles in several films during the 1970s, particularly in the horror genre. Featured in the cult classic film 'The Omen', the actor also appeared in other notable titles such as 'The Devil's Rain' and 'The Legend of the 7 Golden Vampires'. Career spanned both television and film, contributing to a variety of projects in predominantly supporting roles. Participation in the entertainment industry took place during a significant era for horror films, having left a mark within that niche.

Continue Reading

Yang Yongsong

Chinese Major General with military leadership
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2022 3 years ago — 103 years old

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 Reading

Masao Takemoto

Japanese Gymnast and Olympic Medalist
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2007 19 years ago — 88 years old

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 Reading

Arjan Singh

Marshal of the Indian Air Force
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 98 years old

Served as the Marshal of the Indian Air Force with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Commissioned into the Royal Indian Air Force in 1938, held various key positions including Chief of Air Staff from 1966 to 1969. Commanded IAF operations during the 1965 Indo-Pakistan War and played a significant role in strategic planning and execution. Oversaw modernization programs within the air force which enhanced operational capabilities. Received several honors including the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second highest civilian award, for outstanding service.

Continue Reading

Peter Abrahams

South African-Jamaican author
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2017 9 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1919 in South Africa and later moving to Jamaica, contributed significantly to literature with a focus on the complexities of identity and race. His writing career spanned several decades, during which he produced numerous novels, essays, and short stories. Works often highlighted the struggles of individuals in a racially divided society. Achieved recognition for a blend of autobiographical and fictional narratives, often drawing from personal experiences and historical context. The body of work includes influential titles that addressed social issues, particularly in post-colonial contexts.

Continue Reading

Georgia Carroll

Singer, model, and actress from America
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2011 15 years ago — 92 years old

A notable singer, model, and actress, contributed to the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century. Gained significant recognition as a singer and performed in various venues and recordings. Worked as a model and appeared in several notable films, enhancing visibility in both music and film. Also featured in the 1940s film 'The Big Store' alongside the Marx Brothers. In addition to her entertainment career, participated in various modeling assignments and projects, establishing a visible presence in the fashion industry. Her multifaceted career spread across singing, modeling, and acting, securing a place in the cultural landscape of the time.

Continue Reading