What Happened This Year 2019

People Who Died in 2019

Alec Holowka

Game Developer, co-creator of Night in the Woods
Born
1983 42 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2019 5 years ago — 36 years old

A game developer contributed to the indie gaming scene with a focus on narrative-driven experiences. Co-created the critically acclaimed game 'Night in the Woods', which received praise for its storytelling and characters. Established a reputation through work on various games, including 'Aquaria', which showcased innovative gameplay and artistic design.

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Anthoine Hubert

Race car driver; 2018 GP3 Series Champion
Born
1996 29 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2019 5 years ago — 23 years old

A race car driver from France participated in various racing categories, including Formula Renault and GP3. Achieved significant success in 2018 by winning the GP3 Series Championship with the ART Grand Prix team, demonstrating exceptional talent and skill on the track. Competed in the FIA Formula 2 Championship and was regarded as a promising talent in motorsport before a tragic accident occurred during a race in Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium.

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Francisco Toledo

Mexican painter and graphic artist
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
September 5th, 2019 5 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in contemporary Mexican art, contributions spanned painting, sculpture, and graphic arts. Toledo's style combined elements of indigenous culture, surrealism, and nature. His works often depicted the Oaxaca region, showcasing local flora and fauna. Toledo's dedication to preserving cultural heritage led to the establishment of the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca, which housed many of his creations. In addition to his artistic pursuits, advocacy for environmental causes marked his career.

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Robert Mugabe

Politician and 2nd President of Zimbabwe
Born
February 21st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2019 5 years ago — 95 years old

Served as Prime Minister from 1980 to 1987 and then as President of Zimbabwe from 1987 to 2017. Played a significant role in the country's liberation struggle and post-colonial governance. Introduced policies that aimed at redistributing land from white farmers to black Zimbabweans, which sparked controversy and led to economic decline. His administration was marked by allegations of human rights violations and electoral fraud.

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B. J. Habibie

Indonesian engineer and 3rd President
Born
June 25th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2019 5 years ago — 83 years old

An engineer and politician served as the 3rd President of Indonesia from 1998 to 1999. Prior to the presidency, held the position of Minister of Research and Technology and contributed to the development of the Indonesian aviation industry. Initiated several reforms aimed at democratization and economic recovery, following the fall of Suharto's regime.

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ʻAkilisi Pōhiva

Tongan Prime Minister and activist
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2019 5 years ago — 78 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Tonga from 2014 until his death in 2019. Elected to the Tongan Parliament in 1999, played a fundamental role in advocating for democratic reforms and transparency in government. Worked extensively for the rights of the Tongan people and promoted educational initiatives throughout the nation. His leadership was marked by efforts to enhance the political landscape of Tonga and push for greater accountability among public officials.

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Eddie Money

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
March 21st, 1949 75 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2019 5 years ago — 70 years old

This musician emerged in the late 1970s and gained recognition for his blend of rock, pop, and blue-eyed soul. Debut album 'Eddie Money' featured the hit single 'Baby Hold On.' Subsequent albums included 'Life for the Taking' and 'No Control,' showcasing chart-topping tracks like 'Two Tickets to Paradise' and 'Take Me Home Tonight.' The artist's signature sound combined catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics. Money continued to perform and tour throughout his career, maintaining a loyal fan base until his death in 2019.

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Ric Ocasek

Rock band frontman and producer
Born
March 23rd, 1944 80 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2019 5 years ago — 75 years old

Singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer originated from Maryland but gained prominence in the late 1970s as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for the rock band The Cars. The band achieved significant commercial success with hit songs such as "Just What I Needed," "Shake It Up," and "Drive." Ocasek also contributed to the band’s distinctive sound through his innovative production techniques. Outside of his work with The Cars, Ocasek produced albums for several artists, demonstrating a wide-ranging influence in the music industry. His contributions were recognized when The Cars were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.

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H. S. Dillon

Indonesian politician and human rights defender
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2019 5 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a prominent Indonesian politician with a focus on human rights advocacy. Engaged actively in promoting democratic governance and civil liberties. Contributed significantly to discussions and initiatives surrounding legal reforms and social justice in Indonesia. Played a pivotal role in various organizations aimed at protecting the rights of marginalized communities.

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