What Happened This Year 2019
People Who Died in 2019
Michael 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.
Continue ReadingJunior Johnson
A significant figure in the world of NASCAR racing, contributions spanned as a driver and later as a team owner. Achieved early success in the 1950s and helped establish stock car racing as a major American sport. Played a key role in developing the modern superspeedway racing format. Inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2010, recognizing a legacy built on skill, innovation, and leadership in motorsports.
Continue ReadingDominick Argento
A prominent American composer and educator, this individual contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. The career included teaching positions at various institutions, notably the University of Minnesota. The work as a composer encompassed numerous operas, orchestral pieces, and choral works, often characterized by lyrical melodies and rich harmonies. This individual received acclaim for operas such as "Postcard from Morocco" and "The Boor," showcasing a blend of traditional techniques with modern sensibilities.
Continue ReadingMartin Feldstein
An American economist and academic contributed significantly to economic policy discussion and research. Served as the President of the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) and held the position of Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers under President Ronald Reagan. Focused on issues such as Social Security reform, tax policy, and international economic relations. Helped develop the concept of the natural rate of unemployment and its implications for economic policy. His academic work included numerous publications that addressed a range of economic issues.
Continue ReadingAnna Karina
Born in 1940, this actress moved to France and gained prominence in the French New Wave cinema. Collaborated frequently with director Jean-Luc Godard, appearing in landmark films such as "Breathless" and "Pierrot le Fou." Expanded creative horizons as a director and screenwriter, contributing to her own projects and continuing to influence the film industry with her unique vision. Recognized for a striking style that defined a generation in European cinema.
Continue ReadingJohn Robert Schrieffer
Contributed significantly to the field of condensed matter physics. Developed the BCS theory of superconductivity alongside colleagues John Bardeen and Leon Cooper, which provided a theoretical explanation for the phenomenon. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1972 for this groundbreaking work. Held academic positions at prestigious institutions, including the University of Michigan and Florida State University. Actively engaged in research and mentoring throughout a lengthy academic career.
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