What Happened This Year 2019

People Who Died in 2019

Tony Mendez

CIA Technical Operations Officer, Argo
Born
November 15th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 79 years old

A CIA technical operations officer specialized in disguises and deception tactics. Led a covert mission during the Iran hostage crisis that involved extracting six American diplomats from Tehran. Developed a plan to create a fake film production to facilitate the departure. The operation was later depicted in the film 'Argo', which won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2013.

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Idriz Ajeti

Albanian albanologist and linguist
Born
June 26th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 102 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of Albanian language and culture. Served as a professor at the University of Tirana, where extensive research into the Albanian dialects and literary heritage was conducted. Authored several influential works analyzing the structural aspects of the Albanian language. Participated in linguistic conferences and contributed to the promotion of Albanian studies internationally.

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Don Valentine

Venture Capitalist and Silicon Valley Pioneer
Born
June 26th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 87 years old

A significant figure in the venture capital industry, contributions included founding Sequoia Capital in 1972. Focused on investing in technology and healthcare startups, facilitated the growth of numerous companies in Silicon Valley. Over the years, backed firms such as Apple, Oracle, and Cisco Systems, shaping the tech landscape. Held a reputation for identifying promising entrepreneurs and innovative ideas. Continued to influence the venture capital field through mentorship and support of emerging ventures.

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Keith Davis

Rugby player; played for New Zealand
Born
May 21st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 89 years old

Played rugby union for New Zealand, representing the national team in the 1950s. Competed in multiple international matches, contributing to the team's success during that period. Achieved recognition for skills on the field and commitment to the sport. Engaged with local rugby initiatives post-retirement, promoting the game at grassroots levels.

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Keith Flint

English singer-songwriter of The Prodigy
Born
September 17th, 1969 55 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 50 years old

Emergence in the music scene occurred in the early 1990s as the frontman of the electronic band The Prodigy. Contributed significantly to the genre with a distinctive vocal style and energetic performances. The album 'The Fat of the Land' achieved commercial success and included hits such as 'Firestarter' and 'Breathe.' Flint also played a role in the band's image, becoming an icon of the rave culture.

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Mary Oliver

American poet and winner of the Pulitzer Prize
Born
September 10th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 84 years old

A celebrated poet, recognized for the clarity and beauty of her verse. Began publishing poetry in the 1960s and gained widespread acclaim for works emphasizing nature and the human experience. Won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1984 for the collection 'American Primitive.' Often explored themes of love, loss, and the natural world, showcasing a deep appreciation for the environment in her writing. Her poems combined simplicity with profound insights, making them accessible to a broad audience.

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Edward Seaga

Politician and 5th Prime Minister of Jamaica
Born
May 28th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the 5th Prime Minister of Jamaica from 1980 to 1989. Held significant roles in the Jamaican Labour Party. Played a key role in shaping the economic and cultural policies during tenure. Contributed to the development of the Jamaican economy with a focus on privatization and foreign investment. Engaged in educational initiatives and cultural preservation throughout political career. Served in the Jamaican Parliament for over four decades, influencing national policy and development.

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Baidyanath Misra

Indian economist and educator
Born
November 22nd, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 99 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of economics in India, especially in agricultural economics. Served as a professor and later as the Vice-Chancellor at a prominent university. Participated in various government committees aimed at improving national agricultural policies. Played a role in formulating techniques that enhanced agricultural productivity in India.

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Robert Hunter

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
June 23rd, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent figure in the music scene, contributed significantly to the world of rock and folk music through songwriting and performing. Collaborated extensively with the Grateful Dead, providing lyrics for many of their iconic songs. Released several solo albums that showcased lyrical depth and musical skill. His work became integral to the 1960s and 1970s counterculture movement.

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