What Happened This Year 2019

People Who Died in 2019

Russell Brookes

Race car driver with notable rally wins
Born
August 16th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in British motorsport, this individual participated in rally racing during the 1970s and 1980s. Success came with multiple appearances in the British Rally Championship, achieving significant victories and establishing a reputation in the motorsport community. Competed extensively in the World Rally Championship, showcasing skill on various types of terrain. The career highlighted participation in events such as the RAC Rally, demonstrating expertise in navigating challenging courses.

Continue Reading

Ventseslav Konstantinov

Bulgarian writer and translator of poetry
Born
September 14th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Bulgaria in 1940, a prominent writer and translator specializing in poetry and literature. Contributions to Bulgarian literature through original works and translations from various languages enriched the cultural landscape. Engaged with contemporary themes and explored the nuances of human experiences in writing. Actively participated in literary circles, fostering appreciation for poetry and literary arts in Bulgaria.

Continue Reading

Sam Trimble

Australian cricketer and Test player
Born
August 16th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 85 years old

A cricket player represented Australia at the Test level. Played as a middle-order batsman for the national team. Contributed to significant matches during the 1950s, demonstrating skill in both batting and fielding. Had a respectable domestic career primarily with Victoria. Accumulated runs and showcased talent in key competitions, helping to elevate the team's performance during his tenure. His cricketing career spanned several years, leaving a mark in the game.

Continue Reading

T. Boone Pickens

Business magnate and energy investor
Born
May 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1928, a businessman focused on the energy sector, made a significant impact in the oil and gas industry. Founded Pickens Fuel Corporation and established the hedge fund BP Capital. Advocated for the use of natural gas as an energy source. Played a key role in the development of the natural gas industry and supported a variety of philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and health.

Continue Reading

Nita Bieber

American actress in theater and film
Born
July 18th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1926, this American actress gained prominence through performances in both theater and film. In the late 1940s and 1950s, appeared in several productions, showcasing talents in musical theater. Starred in the Broadway production of 'Flower Drum Song' and appeared in various films, contributing to the entertainment landscape of her time.

Continue Reading

Agustina Bessa-Luís

Portuguese author and playwright
Born
October 15th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent Portuguese author, this individual produced an extensive body of work that includes novels, essays, and plays. The career began in the mid-20th century, with early works reflecting personal and social themes. Over the decades, the author gained recognition for complex character development and explorations of Portuguese identity. Major works include 'A Sibila' and 'A Casa dos Espíritos.' The literary style often blended realism with psychological insight, contributing significantly to contemporary Portuguese literature. The author received several prestigious awards, including the Camões Prize, honoring the contributions to the Portuguese literary landscape.

Continue Reading

Lil Bub

Celebrity cat with internet fame
Born
June 21st, 2011 14 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 8 years old

A cat that gained popularity on social media for its unique appearance and playful personality. Lil Bub became a viral sensation, attracting millions of followers and influenced internet culture. The cat had a distinctive look due to several genetic mutations, which contributed to its charming presence. Lil Bub made appearances on various television shows, showcasing its personality to a wider audience and was featured in a documentary titled 'Lil Bub & Friendz.' The cat's playful antics and gentle demeanor endeared it to fans around the world, leading to a dedicated fanbase.

Continue Reading

Charles Kittel

American physicist and author of textbook
Born
July 18th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 103 years old

An American physicist contributed significantly to condensed matter physics. Earned a Ph.D. in physics and held a long tenure as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley. Published a widely used textbook on solid state physics, which became a standard reference in the field. Conducted research on the properties of magnetic and dielectric materials, influencing various applications in physics and engineering.

Continue Reading

Abdul Qadir

Pakistani cricketer and leg-spin bowler
Born
September 15th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 64 years old

One of the most prominent leg-spin bowlers in cricket history, this cricketer played for the Pakistan national team from 1977 to 1993. Renowned for his exceptional spinning skills and ability to deceive batsmen, critical to Pakistan's performances during his career, including the 1983 Cricket World Cup. Post-retirement, contributed to cricket as a commentator and coach, sharing knowledge with aspiring players. Developed a reputation for producing wrist spin that set a standard for future spin bowlers.

Continue Reading