What Happened This Year 2019

People Who Died in 2019

Yukiya Amano

Japanese diplomat and IAEA Director General
Born
May 9th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 72 years old

Served as the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency from 2009 until 2019. Previously, held various diplomatic roles within the Japanese government, contributing to international nuclear non-proliferation efforts. Worked at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan and contributed to the formulation of national policies on nuclear energy and security. During leadership at the IAEA, emphasized transparency and cooperation among member states, navigating complex international issues concerning nuclear safety and security.

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Yvette Williams

New Zealand long jumper and Olympian
Born
April 25th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent athlete achieved significant success in track and field, particularly in long jump, shot put, and discus throw. Competed in the 1950 British Empire Games, winning gold in long jump. Represented New Zealand at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, securing a gold medal in long jump, marking the first Olympic gold for the country in this event. Had a successful career in various athletic disciplines, contributing to the growth of women's athletics in New Zealand.

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Nikolai Kardashev

Astrophysicist and scale creator
Born
April 25th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 87 years old

Contributions to astrophysics focused on the classification of civilizations based on their energy consumption led to the creation of the Kardashev Scale. This scale categorizes civilizations into Type I, II, and III based on their ability to harness energy from their home planet, star, and galaxy, respectively. Worked at the Institute of Space Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Engaged in studies related to the search for extraterrestrial intelligence and the structure of the universe. Published extensively on cosmology and a variety of scientific subjects, influencing both academic circles and the popular understanding of advanced civilizations.

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Billy McNeill

Scottish footballer and Celtic captain
Born
March 2nd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 79 years old

Considered one of the greatest Scottish footballers, played primarily as a central defender. Captained Celtic FC to their historic victory in the 1967 European Cup, leading the team to become the first British club to win the title. Made significant contributions to Celtic's success during the 1960s and 1970s, earning a reputation for leadership and defensive skills. Following retirement, transitioned into management and coached several clubs, including successful stints at Aberdeen and Manchester City.

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Howard Cassady

American football player, Heisman Trophy winner
Born
March 2nd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 85 years old

An accomplished American football player played collegiate football at Ohio State University. Achieved notable success as a running back and earned the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 1955. Helped lead Ohio State to a Big Ten Championship while setting several school records. Transitioned to professional football with the Detroit Lions in the NFL, contributing significantly to the team during his career. Cassady's legacy includes being recognized as one of the standout players of his era.

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Alice Rivlin

Economist and politician, 1993 CBO director
Born
March 4th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 88 years old

An economist and politician contributed to economic policy and budget management. Served as the founding director of the Congressional Budget Office from 1975 to 1983, helping to establish the principles of federal budget analysis. Held various roles in government, including Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget under President Bill Clinton. Worked as a Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution, focusing on fiscal policy and economic issues. Rivlin's expertise in economic forecasting and analysis shaped fiscal policy discussions throughout her career.

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Henri de Contenson

French archaeologist and academic
Born
March 4th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2019 6 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.

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Norman Stone

British historian and author of 'Europe'
Born
March 8th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2019 6 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.

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Marcia Falkender

English politician and Baroness
Born
March 10th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2019 6 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.

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