What Happened This Year 2019
People Who Died in 2019
Brian 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.
Continue ReadingRobert Evans
An influential figure in Hollywood, this individual produced several notable films during the 1970s and 1980s. Significant works include 'Chinatown' and 'The Godfather,' which garnered critical acclaim and multiple Academy Awards. As an actor, he appeared in films such as 'The Cotton Club' and 'Transylvania 6-5000.' His role as a producer at Paramount Pictures was marked by innovative decision-making that shaped the studio's output during a pivotal era in American cinema.
Continue ReadingPat Crawford Brown
Born in 1929, an American actress gained recognition for substantial roles in television and film. Appeared in the television series 'The Waltons' as the character Miss Mamie and had recurring roles in 'Knots Landing' and 'General Hospital'. Additionally, featured in films such as 'The New Adventures of Pippi Longstocking' and 'The Silent Partner'. Had a career spanning several decades, contributing to both daytime and prime-time television.
Continue ReadingFrancis S. Currey
Served in the United States Army during World War II. Participated in combat in the European Theater. Received the Medal of Honor for exceptional bravery during the Battle of the Bulge. Demonstrated extraordinary heroism on January 29, 1945, while serving with the 5th Infantry Division. After the war, became an advocate for veterans and dedicated time to honoring fallen comrades.
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