What Happened This Year 2019

People Who Died in 2019

Henri de Contenson

French archaeologist and academic
Born
March 4th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 93 years old

Specialized in archaeology and contributed significantly to the understanding of South Asian history. Played a pivotal role in excavations and research in India, particularly in sites related to the Indus Valley Civilization. Engaged in numerous academic endeavors, including teaching and publishing important findings regarding ancient societies. Worked on developing preservation methods for archaeological sites and artifacts, influencing future archaeological practices in the region.

Continue Reading

Norman Stone

British historian and author of 'Europe'
Born
March 8th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent British historian and author, contributed significantly to the study of European history. In 1989, published the influential book 'Europe: A History', which provided a wide-ranging account of European events, culture, and politics. Held academic positions at several prestigious institutions, including the University of Oxford and the University of Edinburgh. Served as a director of the Turkish Studies Programme at the University of Edinburgh and contributed to discussions on East-West relations.

Continue Reading

Marcia Falkender

English politician and Baroness
Born
March 10th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent English politician, held various significant positions within the Labour Party. Served as the private secretary to Harold Wilson during his tenure as Prime Minister, influencing key political decisions. Elevated to the House of Lords as Baroness Falkender, contributed to political discourse and policy development. Engaged in public service, promoting various causes aligned with the Labour Party's ideals.

Continue Reading

Michael Gielen

Austrian conductor and composer
Born
July 20th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 92 years old

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 Reading

Frank Dobson

British politician, Secretary of State for Health
Born
March 15th, 1940 86 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 79 years old

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 Reading

Zhores Alferov

Physicist, Nobel Prize winner in Physics
Born
March 15th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 89 years old

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 Reading

Bob Wilber

Clarinetist and saxophonist, jazz musician
Born
March 15th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 91 years old

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 Reading

Pim Verbeek

Football manager with World Cup experience
Born
March 12th, 1956 70 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 63 years old

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 Reading

Phyllis Newman

American actress and singer
Born
March 19th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 86 years old

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 Reading