What Happened This Year 2019
People Who Died in 2019
Bob Friend
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1951 to 1966, primarily for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Achieved a win-loss record of 197-230, recording 1,652 strikeouts. Competed in the 1960 World Series, contributing to the Pirates' victory. After retiring from baseball, entered politics and served in various local government roles. Advocated for community development and sports initiatives.
Continue ReadingBob Willis
A former English cricketer and television presenter, celebrated for contributions to cricket both as a player and commentator. Played as a fast bowler for the England national team from 1971 to 1984, earning 325 Test wickets. Played a significant role in England's 1981 Ashes series victory against Australia, taking eight wickets in the famous Headingley Test. Post-retirement, transitioned into a successful broadcasting career, contributing to cricket coverage on various networks. Delivered analysis and commentary for decades, known for distinctive insights and engaging personality, influencing a new generation of cricket enthusiasts.
Continue ReadingDr. John
A prominent figure in the New Orleans music scene, known for blending elements of jazz, blues, and rock. Released numerous albums throughout a career spanning several decades. Achieved commercial success with the song "Right Place, Wrong Time" in 1973, which became a hit and solidified his place in popular music history. Also recognized for contributions to cinematic soundtracks, including work on films such as "The Last Waltz." Involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly focused on the preservation of New Orleans culture and music.
Continue ReadingYury Luzhkov
Served as the Mayor of Moscow from 1992 to 2010, overseeing significant urban development projects and the expansion of the city's infrastructure. Played a crucial role in the economic transformation of Moscow during the post-Soviet era, promoting private investment and real estate development. Led various initiatives aimed at modernization and improving the city's image. Took an active part in political life, including membership in the United Russia party and involvement in regional and national politics.
Continue ReadingJerry Rook
Participated in collegiate basketball at the University of Illinois. Transitioned to a coaching role, leading teams at various educational institutions. Developed athletes' skills and strategies for competitive play. Contributed to the growth of basketball programs under his guidance, emphasizing teamwork and discipline.
Continue ReadingMichael J. Pollard
An American actor emerged in the 1960s, recognized for unique portrayals that often highlighted quirky and eccentric characters. Gained prominence with a role in the film 'Bonnie and Clyde' where the performance garnered critical acclaim. Delivered memorable performances in various television series, including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'M*A*S*H'. Further appearances in films such as 'Little Fauss and Big Halsy' and 'The Naked Ape' showcased versatility in acting skills. Active in the entertainment industry for several decades, contributed to both film and television.
Continue ReadingAlexei Leonov
A Soviet general and cosmonaut, achieved historic significance as the first human to conduct a spacewalk during the Voskhod 2 mission in 1965. This daring maneuver lasted for 12 minutes and was a landmark event in space exploration. After retiring from space missions, engaged in the promotion of space science and aviation. Contributed to various space-related projects and provided insights into human spaceflight challenges. Authored several works detailing experiences in space and served in leadership roles within the Soviet space program.
Continue ReadingRobert Ryman
A prominent painter associated with the minimalist movement, focused primarily on the color white. Employed a variety of surfaces and textures in painting, including canvas, paper, and metal. Ryman's work emphasized the relationship between the medium, light, and perception. Established a significant presence in the contemporary art world through innovative techniques and a rigorous approach to abstraction. Participated in numerous exhibitions, both nationally and internationally. His artworks are part of major collections, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Guggenheim in New York.
Continue ReadingBrian Mawhinney
An academic and politician served as Secretary of State for Transport from 1995 to 1997. Mawhinney held various positions within the Conservative Party and was a Member of Parliament for Peterborough from 1987 to 1997. Mawhinney's tenure in the transport office was marked by initiatives on road safety and infrastructure improvement, contributing to the development of key transportation policies. He also engaged in higher education through his academic roles.
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