What Happened This Year 2019
People Who Died in 2019
Michael Gielen
Born in 1927, a prominent conductor and composer, significant contributions to both contemporary and classical music. Held conducting positions with the Stuttgart Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Southwest German Radio Symphony Orchestra. Played a vital role in the musical direction of multiple renowned orchestras. Engaged with various opera houses and festivals, promoting innovative repertoire and contemporary composers. Composed a number of significant works during a prolific career.
Continue ReadingFrank Dobson
Served as a politician in the United Kingdom for several decades. Held the position of Secretary of State for Health from 1997 to 1999 in the Labour government led by Tony Blair. Focused on health policy reform and was instrumental in approaching issues related to the National Health Service. Represented the Holborn and St Pancras constituency in Parliament for a significant period.
Continue ReadingZhores Alferov
Belarusian-Russian physicist and academic made significant contributions to semiconductor physics. Alferov developed heterostructure lasers, which became fundamental in optoelectronics. Academic roles included serving as a head at the Department of Optoelectronics and holding the position of rector at the Ioffe Institute in St. Petersburg. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2000 for innovative work in semiconductor physics that led to advancements in telecommunications and electronics.
Continue ReadingBob Wilber
A clarinetist and saxophonist, contributed significantly to the jazz genre throughout a lengthy career. Played with prominent figures in jazz, including the likes of Sidney Bechet and the modern jazz ensemble. Established a successful solo career, showcasing unique approaches to traditional jazz music. Wilber also devoted efforts to music education, mentoring young musicians and promoting the jazz tradition.
Continue ReadingPim Verbeek
Began a coaching career after transitioning from playing football. Managed various club teams in the Netherlands and abroad. Achieved notable success as coach of the Australian national team during the 2006 FIFA World Cup, leading the team to the knockout stage. Had stints with several clubs, including a successful period with the Dutch club FC Twente. Continued to coach at various levels, contributing to the development of players and teams in different countries.
Continue ReadingPhyllis Newman
A celebrated actress and singer, contributions spanned over six decades in theater and television. Gained prominence for performances in Broadway productions and various television shows. Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for the role in 'Broadway Bound'. Participated in philanthropic efforts, particularly around cancer awareness, establishing support programs for those affected by the disease.
Continue ReadingRaymond Poulidor
Achieved significant success in professional cycling, particularly in the Tour de France. Competed in the Tour de France 14 times between 1962 and 1976, finishing on the podium multiple times. Recognized for his consistency and determination, he became a fan favorite despite never winning the overall title. Participated in the Paris-Roubaix race and secured victories in various one-day races throughout his career. Continued to be involved in cycling after retirement, contributing to the sport.
Continue ReadingIsmail Petra of Kelantan
Born in 1949, ascended to the throne as the Sultan of Kelantan in 1960. Governed the state for several decades, until sidelined by health issues in the early 2000s. Played a vital role in promoting the Islamic heritage and traditional customs of Kelantan. Was involved in various community development projects and championed cultural preservation. His reign witnessed efforts to enhance education and public welfare in the region.
Continue ReadingMachiko Kyō
Active from the 1940s to the 1960s, this actress appeared in numerous influential films and became a symbol of post-war Japanese cinema. Significant roles included performances in 'Rashomon' (1950) and 'Ugetsu' (1953), both directed by Akira Kurosawa and Mizoguchi Kenji, respectively. These films are considered masterpieces and contributed to her recognition in the international film community. She worked extensively in the Toho film studio and became an iconic figure in Japanese film history.
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