What Happened This Year 2019

People Who Died in 2019

Sara Danius

Literary Scholar and Aesthetics Expert
Born
April 5th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 57 years old

A scholar specializing in literature and aesthetics, contributed significantly to literary criticism and theory. Served as the first female permanent secretary of the Swedish Academy from 2015 until 2018. Authored numerous essays and analyses on literature, culture, and aesthetics, influencing academic discourse in these fields. Engaged in debates surrounding the Nobel Prize in Literature, particularly in relation to the Academy's controversies during her tenure.

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Tommy Smith

English footballer and Liverpool defender
Born
April 5th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 74 years old

Played as a central defender, representing Liverpool Football Club from 1963 to 1978. Contributed to a highly successful era, winning numerous titles, including 4 First Division Championships and 2 European Cups. Played a key role in Liverpool's defense and is remembered for his leadership on the pitch.

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Vladimir Bukovsky

Russian author and political activist
Born
December 30th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 77 years old

An author and activist, dedicated to fighting against totalitarianism and advocating for human rights in the Soviet Union. Spent years in psychiatric hospitals and prisons due to opposition to the regime. Emigrated to the West in 1976, continuing to critique Soviet policies. Wrote several works highlighting the repressive nature of the Soviet system and advocating for democracy. Engaged with the international community, raising awareness about political prisoners and suppression in the USSR.

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David Winters

Actor and choreographer for 'West Side Story'
Born
April 5th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 80 years old

Born in England and later moving to the United States, an actor, choreographer, and producer made significant contributions to film and television. The choreography for the 1961 film 'West Side Story' highlighted versatile dance styles and showcased strong performances. This actor also appeared in various films and television shows, further establishing a career in entertainment through both performance and behind-the-scenes work. In addition to acting, contributions to choreography included work on Broadway productions and television specials.

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Nik Powell

Businessman & co-founder of Virgin Group
Born
November 4th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 69 years old

Co-founded Virgin Group, a global conglomerate that began as a record label. Established a reputation in the music industry with Virgin Records, which signed major artists and released numerous successful albums. Expanded the brand into various sectors including travel, telecommunications, and space tourism. Instrumental in developing Virgin Atlantic Airways, which became a significant player in the airline industry. Launched multiple ventures that contributed to the growth of the Virgin brand worldwide.

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Thanos Mikroutsikos

Greek composer and politician
Born
April 13th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1947, this individual contributed to Greek music as a prominent composer, integrating traditional and contemporary styles. In addition to a successful music career, participation in politics marked a significant aspect of life. The political landscape during the 1980s saw involvement in the Greek socialist movement and serving in various roles that influenced cultural policies. The individual also gained recognition for political activism and social justice efforts through music, creating works that resonated with national identity and historical events.

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David Hurst

German actor in film and television
Born
May 8th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 93 years old

An actor with a prominent career in film and television, often recognized for work during the mid-20th century. Significant appearances included roles in films such as 'The Counterfeiters' and 'The Damned,' along with a number of television series. Established a reputation within the German entertainment industry, contributing to various productions that highlighted dramatic storytelling.

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Marilynn Smith

Professional golfer and champion
Born
April 13th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 90 years old

Acclaimed as one of the founding members of the LPGA, a prominent professional golf organization for women. Achieved significant success in competitive golf throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including winning multiple tournaments. Contributed to the growth of women's golf and played a vital role in the establishment of the LPGA as a professional tour. Actively involved in promoting golf at all levels.

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Peter McNamara

Tennis player and coach with Grand Slam title
Born
July 5th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 64 years old

Achieved success as a professional tennis player during the 1970s and 1980s. Won the men's doubles title at Wimbledon in 1980 alongside partner Paul McNamee. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of several players on the tour. In addition to coaching, McNamara also worked as a commentator and a tennis analyst, sharing insights into the sport.

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