What Happened This Year 1885

Born in 1885

George Bouzianis

Greek painter of modern art
Born
November 8th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1959 65 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1885, contributed significantly to modern Greek art. Studied at the Munich Academy and later settled in Athens, where his work featured bold colors and dynamic forms. Explored themes of urban life, nature, and Greek identity throughout his career. Established his reputation in the 1920s with a series of exhibitions. His paintings often depicted landscapes and figures, reflecting both tradition and contemporary influences. Participated in various national and international art exhibitions, gaining recognition in the Mediterranean art scene.

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Hans Cloos

Geologist with notable academic contributions
Born
November 8th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1951 73 years ago — 65 years old

Significant contributions to the field of geology occurred throughout an academic career. Focused on structural geology and the study of mountain ranges. Published extensively on the mechanics of rock formations and tectonic processes. Served as a professor at several universities, influencing generations of geologists. Engaged in research that advanced understanding of geological phenomena.

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Emil Fahrenkamp

German architect and academic
Born
November 8th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1885, a German architect and academic contributed significantly to modernist architecture. Fahrenkamp was a member of the influential Deutscher Werkbund and played a key role in the design and planning of various important buildings. His professional career included teaching architecture at the Technical University of Berlin, where he influenced a generation of architects. The architectural style incorporated functional design principles while integrating innovative materials and construction techniques.

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Tomoyuki Yamashita

Japanese general during World War II
Born
November 8th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1946 79 years ago — 60 years old

Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Commanded Japanese forces in the Malayan Campaign and the Battle of Singapore, leading to the capture of the British stronghold in 1942. Led troops in various campaigns throughout the Pacific, demonstrating tactical skills in land warfare. Post-war, faced trial for war crimes and was executed in 1946.

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Aureliano Pertile

Italian tenor and renowned vocal educator
Born
November 9th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1952 73 years ago — 66 years old

Famed tenor and educator contributed significantly to the operatic world in the early 20th century. Pertile performed leading roles in major operas and gained recognition for his outstanding vocal technique and interpretation. In addition to a successful singing career, he dedicated time to teaching, influencing many young singers. His performances included renowned roles in operas such as 'Tosca' and 'La Bohème'. Later in life, Pertile took on educational roles, shaping future generations of vocalists through his instructional methods.

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Hermann Weyl

Mathematician known for Weyl's theorem
Born
November 9th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1885, contributed significantly to mathematics, physics, and philosophy. Developed Weyl's theorem in algebraic topology, linking analysis and geometry. Explored representation theory and its applications in physics, particularly in quantum mechanics, contributing to the understanding of particle physics. Authored seminal works on the foundations of mathematics and theoretical physics, influencing future generations of scientists and mathematicians.

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Velimir Khlebnikov

Russian poet and playwright
Born
November 9th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1922 102 years ago — 36 years old

A prominent figure in Russian literature, focused on futurism and experimental poetry. Contributed to the development of Zaum language, emphasizing the importance of sound and rhythm in poetry. Published several influential works, such as 'Zangezi' and 'The Radio of the Future,' which showcased innovative literary techniques and ideas. Participated in literary discussions and movements that shaped 20th-century poetry.

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George S. Patton

American General during World War II
Born
November 11th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1945 79 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent American general during World War II, played a crucial role in the European Theater of the conflict. Commanded the U.S. Third Army and led operations in the Normandy landings. Developed a reputation for aggressive tactics and rapid armored advancement. His leadership was pivotal in several key battles, including the Battle of the Bulge and the liberation of France.

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Christian Wirth

German SS officer and concentration camp leader
Born
November 24th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1944 80 years ago — 58 years old

Served as an SS officer during World War II, leading the construction and administration of several concentration camps. Played a pivotal role in implementing the Nazi regime's policies of extermination. Principal architect behind the gas chambers in camps such as Sobibor and Belzec, contributing to the mass murder of thousands. Participated in the Holocaust's systematic execution of Jews and others deemed undesirable by the Nazi government.

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