What Happened This Year 2019

People Who Died in 2019

Jerry Herman

American composer of Broadway musicals
Born
July 10th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 88 years old

An influential composer and lyricist, contributions to Broadway include the music and lyrics for several iconic musicals. Major works include 'Hello, Dolly!' and 'Mame', both of which enjoyed significant success and helped define mid-20th century American musical theater. His style blended humor with heartfelt emotion, and he often collaborated with leading performers of the time. Over decades, he received numerous awards that recognized his lasting influence on musical theater.

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Carlo Maria Abate

Italian race car driver, Mille Miglia winner
Born
July 10th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in motorsports, Abate excelled as a race car driver during the mid-20th century. Competing in numerous notable events, he became recognized for his skills and performances across various types of races. Achievements include participation in the prestigious Mille Miglia and endurance races, where competitive spirit and technical prowess were showcased.

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Bryan Magee

English philosopher and politician
Born
April 12th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent philosopher and politician, engagement in politics began in the 1960s. Served as a Member of Parliament for the Labour Party. Contributed to public discourse on a variety of philosophical topics, including the nature of knowledge and democracy. Authored several influential works, including 'Confessions of a Philosopher' and 'The Philosophy of Schopenhauer', which examined complex philosophical ideas and made them accessible to a broader audience. Engaged in television discussions promoting philosophical thought.

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Martin Böttcher

German composer and conductor
Born
June 17th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1927, a composer and conductor for film and television music emerged as a significant figure in the German music scene. Many scores for Western films became widely recognized, particularly during the 1960s. The composition for the movie series 'Winnetou' gained notable popularity and contributed to the soundscape of German cinema. Böttcher also worked extensively in television, creating memorable themes and background music, connecting audiences to various programs throughout the decades.

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Mel Stottlemyre

Baseball player and pitching coach
Born
November 13th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 78 years old

Played as a right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1964 to 1974. Spent the majority of playing career with the New York Yankees, earning three All-Star selections. He transitioned into a coaching role after retirement, serving as a pitching coach for various teams, including the New York Yankees, where he contributed to the development of multiple pitchers. His coaching career spanned several decades, influencing the game through mentorship and tactical insights.

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Jameel Jalibi

Pakistani linguist and academic
Born
June 12th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 90 years old

Academic and linguist contributed significantly to the study of Urdu and other languages. Served as the chairman of the National Language Authority in Pakistan, advocating for the preservation and promotion of Urdu. Authored various works on linguistics, literature, and the cultural significance of language in society. Played an instrumental role in the development of language policy in Pakistan, supporting educational reforms related to language learning.

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Roky Erickson

Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
July 15th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 72 years old

Active in the music scene from the 1960s, significant contributions included founding the psychedelic rock band 13th Floor Elevators. Helped define the genre with the hit song "You're Gonna Miss Me." After a period of mental health struggles, continued to create solo work that explored themes of horror and existentialism. Released several albums, including 'The Evil One' and 'True Love Cast Out All Evil,' showcasing a unique blend of rock, punk, and gothic influences. Recognized for blending personal experiences and storytelling in music.

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Harry Hughes

American politician; 57th Governor of Maryland
Born
November 13th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the 57th Governor of Maryland from 1979 to 1987. Prior to his governorship, held various positions in Maryland's political landscape including Maryland House of Delegates and as a State Senator. Advocated for environmental preservation and urban development throughout tenure. After leaving office, remained active in local politics and public service.

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Paul Greengard

Neuroscientist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 11th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 94 years old

Contributions included groundbreaking research in the field of neuroscience. Focused on the mechanisms of neurotransmission and neuroplasticity. Served as a researcher and professor at various prestigious institutions. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2000 for discoveries concerning signal transduction in the nervous system.

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