What Happened This Year 1885

Born in 1885

Villem Grünthal-Ridala

Estonian Poet and Linguist
Born
May 30th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1942 83 years ago — 56 years old

Authored poetry reflecting the Estonian landscape and culture. Contributed to the development of the Estonian language through linguistics. Worked as a translator and editor, enhancing literary access to Estonian works. Engaged in cultural activities to promote Estonian literature and identity, particularly during the country's quest for independence.

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Robert Richards

Australian politician, 32nd Premier
Born
May 31st, 1885 139 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1967 57 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 32nd Premier of South Australia from 1944 to 1947. Held the position of Minister for Health and Minister for Education prior to becoming Premier. Led the Liberal and Country League party during his political career. Focused on post-war recovery and development in South Australia. Involved in various legislative reforms during tenure as Premier.

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Arturo Rawson

Argentinian General and President
Born
June 4th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1885, a military officer and politician served as the 26th President of Argentina. Held various military positions prior to presidency, contributing to the political landscape during a tumultuous time in Argentine history. Assumed the presidency briefly in 1943 following a coup that overthrew the previous government. Implemented policies aimed at stabilizing the country during his tenure, although faced challenges from rival factions within the military and government. His presidency was marked by political instability and ended after a few months, returning to a more centralized military leadership. Continued involvement in military and political affairs after his presidency, participating in various capacities within the government until retirement.

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Karl Genzken

German physician and medical researcher
Born
June 8th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1957 67 years ago — 72 years old

Born in Germany, contributions to medicine focused on pneumology. Instrumental in the development of therapies treating respiratory diseases, including tuberculosis. Held significant roles in various medical societies, promoting advancements in respiratory care. Published numerous articles and research papers, enhancing understanding of lung diseases and their treatments. Through dedicated work, influenced medical practices in the early to mid-20th century.

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Felicjan Sławoj Składkowski

Polish General and Prime Minister
Born
June 9th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the 27th Prime Minister of Poland from 1936 to 1939 during a critical period leading up to World War II. Previously worked in the Polish military, reaching the rank of general. Involved in the defense of Poland during the initial stages of the war and played a role in the political landscape of the Second Polish Republic. His tenure was marked by the challenges posed by the escalating tensions in Europe prior to the conflict. After the invasion of Poland, he emigrated and continued to be involved in Polish affairs from abroad.

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Andrzej Gawroński

Polish linguist and academic
Born
June 20th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1927 98 years ago — 42 years old

Specialized in linguistics and contributed to various linguistic studies. Served as a professor at several universities, influencing the field of Polish linguistics. Authored numerous publications that explored language structure and syntax, becoming a key figure in academic discussions during the early and mid-20th century.

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Milan Vidmar

Chess player and engineer, 1st International Master
Born
June 22nd, 1885 139 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1962 62 years ago — 77 years old

An accomplished chess player and engineer from Slovenia, excelled in various chess tournaments during the early to mid-20th century. Achieved the title of International Master in 1950, becoming one of the first to hold this title. Participated in several notable international chess competitions, making significant contributions to chess literature and theory as well. Also worked as a professor of electrical engineering, influencing the field through both teaching and research.

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Olaf Holtedahl

Geologist and Arctic explorer
Born
June 24th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1975 49 years ago — 90 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of geology in Norway and the Arctic region. Conducted extensive field studies and research on the glacial history of Norway. Served as a professor at the University of Oslo, influencing future generations of geologists. Authored numerous papers and a comprehensive textbook on geology, providing valuable resources for both students and professionals.

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Pierre Montet

French historian and academic expert
Born
June 27th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 81 years old

Specialized in ancient Egyptian history and archaeology. Conducted extensive excavations at the site of Tanis in Egypt, uncovering significant artifacts and tombs. Authored several influential works that contributed to the understanding of Egyptian civilization, culture, and its historical context. Served as a professor of ancient history at various institutions, guiding future historians and archaeologists.

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