February 19

On February 19, 1949, American poet Ezra Pound was awarded the first Bollingen Prize in Poetry by the Bollingen Foundation and Yale University. Despite controversy over his wartime broadcasts, Pound's modernist innovations had reshaped 20th-century literature. The prize honored his epic work, 'The Pisan Cantos,' written during his detention after World War II. Established to recognize outstanding poetic achievement, the Bollingen Prize sparked debates about art, politics, and censorship. Critics and defenders clashed over whether Pound's political views should affect his eligibility. The award elevated the Bollingen Prize's prestige and influenced subsequent literary honors. Pound's recognition reaffirmed the significance of experimental forms and international voices in post-war poetry.

In 1953, the state of Georgia formed the Georgia Literature Commission to oversee the censorship of books considered obscene or morally harmful. Empowered by state law, the commission reviewed publications before they could be sold or distributed. Its mandate reflected post-war concerns about juvenile delinquency and the influence of literature. Critics argued the commission infringed on free speech and academic freedom. The agency reviewed novels, magazines, and educational materials, leading to bans and sanctions against publishers. The commission's work sparked legal challenges and broader debates on First Amendment rights. While it operated for decades, changing social attitudes and court rulings eventually curtailed its authority, marking a shift in American views on censorship.

On February 19, 2011, Singapore hosted the debut exhibition of the Belitung shipwreck collection. Discovered off the coast of Indonesia in 1998, the wreck yielded an unparalleled array of Tang dynasty ceramics, gold ornaments, and other archaeological treasures. The exhibit assembled items dating from the 8th to the 10th centuries, offering insights into ancient maritime trade between China and Southeast Asia. Visitors admired intricate pottery, ornate jewelry, and everyday objects that highlighted the technical and artistic achievements of the Tang era. The showcase attracted historians, archaeologists, and art enthusiasts from around the world, sparking renewed interest in underwater archaeology and the preservation of cultural heritage.