What Happened This Year 2019

People Who Died in 2019

Walter Munk

Oceanographer, author, and academic.
Born
October 19th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 102 years old

An oceanographer contributed significantly to the understanding of ocean currents and waves. Developed methods to forecast ocean fluctuations and made advances in physical oceanography. Authored numerous scientific papers and influenced generations of ocean scientists. Held positions at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and served as an educator and mentor for many students.

Continue Reading

Stig Sollander

Alpine skier and Olympic competitor
Born
June 25th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 93 years old

A Swedish alpine skier specialized in slalom and giant slalom. Competed in the 1948 Winter Olympics held in St. Moritz, Switzerland. Achieved significant success in national competitions during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Contributed to the popularity of alpine skiing in Sweden through competitive participation and excellence in skiing events.

Continue Reading

Keith Davis

Rugby player; played for New Zealand
Born
May 21st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 89 years old

Played rugby union for New Zealand, representing the national team in the 1950s. Competed in multiple international matches, contributing to the team's success during that period. Achieved recognition for skills on the field and commitment to the sport. Engaged with local rugby initiatives post-retirement, promoting the game at grassroots levels.

Continue Reading

Baidyanath Misra

Indian economist and educator
Born
November 22nd, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 99 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of economics in India, especially in agricultural economics. Served as a professor and later as the Vice-Chancellor at a prominent university. Participated in various government committees aimed at improving national agricultural policies. Played a role in formulating techniques that enhanced agricultural productivity in India.

Continue Reading

Amy Patterson

Argentine composer and poet
Born
July 16th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 107 years old

Born in Argentina, a significant figure in music and literature, contributed extensively to both fields. Engaged in teaching, inspiring many students through music education. Wrote numerous compositions that reflect cultural themes and poetic elements. Her works highlight the influence of Argentine folklore and contemporary styles, blending traditional and modern techniques.

Continue Reading

Edward Seaga

Politician and 5th Prime Minister of Jamaica
Born
May 28th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the 5th Prime Minister of Jamaica from 1980 to 1989. Held significant roles in the Jamaican Labour Party. Played a key role in shaping the economic and cultural policies during tenure. Contributed to the development of the Jamaican economy with a focus on privatization and foreign investment. Engaged in educational initiatives and cultural preservation throughout political career. Served in the Jamaican Parliament for over four decades, influencing national policy and development.

Continue Reading

Don Valentine

Venture Capitalist and Silicon Valley Pioneer
Born
June 26th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 87 years old

A significant figure in the venture capital industry, contributions included founding Sequoia Capital in 1972. Focused on investing in technology and healthcare startups, facilitated the growth of numerous companies in Silicon Valley. Over the years, backed firms such as Apple, Oracle, and Cisco Systems, shaping the tech landscape. Held a reputation for identifying promising entrepreneurs and innovative ideas. Continued to influence the venture capital field through mentorship and support of emerging ventures.

Continue Reading

Idriz Ajeti

Albanian albanologist and linguist
Born
June 26th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 102 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of Albanian language and culture. Served as a professor at the University of Tirana, where extensive research into the Albanian dialects and literary heritage was conducted. Authored several influential works analyzing the structural aspects of the Albanian language. Participated in linguistic conferences and contributed to the promotion of Albanian studies internationally.

Continue Reading

Ernest J. Gaines

American author of 'A Lesson Before Dying'
Born
January 15th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 86 years old

An American author and academic, recognized for contributions to literature and education. The body of work often explores African American culture and the dynamics of life in the rural South. A prominent narrative includes 'A Lesson Before Dying', which deals with themes of dignity and redemption against the backdrop of racial injustice. Gaines also served as a professor, influencing generations of writers and students through a commitment to storytelling and academic excellence. His narratives reflect personal experiences and historical contexts that resonate deeply within the literary community.

Continue Reading