What Happened This Year 1919

Born in 1919

Margaret Whitlam

Australian swimmer and author
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2012 12 years ago — 93 years old

An accomplished swimmer, achieved international success in the 100-meter freestyle during the 1930s. Competed at the 1938 Empire Games, earning a gold medal, which highlighted a prominent swimming career. Later authored several books, engaging with topics related to her experiences and personal insights. Contributed to literature and public discourse through writing.

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Matt Urban

American Colonel, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1995 30 years ago — 76 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War II. Achieved the rank of Colonel and received the Medal of Honor for bravery in combat. Participated in numerous battles, demonstrating leadership and courage. Urban's military service included significant contributions to the campaign in Europe, particularly during the Battle of the Bulge. After the war, he remained active in veteran affairs and continued to serve his country in various capacities.

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William Kunstler

Lawyer and activist for civil rights
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1995 29 years ago — 76 years old

Practiced law primarily in the United States, focusing on civil rights cases and defending high-profile clients. Represented the Black Panthers, the American Indian Movement, and was involved in the trial of the Chicago Seven. Emphasized the importance of freedom of speech and civil liberties throughout a legal career that spanned several decades. Co-founded the Center for Constitutional Rights, advocating for marginalized communities and fighting against government oppression.

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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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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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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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Ella Grasso

Governor of Connecticut
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1981 44 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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Helen Tobias-Duesberg

Estonian-American composer and conductor
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2010 15 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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