What Happened This Year 1885

Born in 1885

Ed Konetchy

Baseball player and manager; World Series champion
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1947 78 years ago — 62 years old

Played as a first baseman in Major League Baseball. Teams included the St. Louis Cardinals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Chicago Cubs. Participated in the 1926 World Series, contributing to the Cardinals' victory. Later transitioned to a managerial role and led minor league teams, honing the skills of emerging players. His career spanned over a decade, during which he displayed consistent performance and leadership on and off the field.

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Betsie ten Boom

Holocaust victim and camp survivor
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1944 80 years ago — 59 years old

A member of the ten Boom family, played a significant role in hiding Jewish people during the Holocaust in the Netherlands. Assisted in the creation of a secret room in the family's watch shop in Haarlem, which sheltered those escaping Nazi persecution. Captured in 1944, transported to Ravensbrück concentration camp, where she remained until her death in 1944. Despite the harsh conditions, she exhibited remarkable strength and compassion, providing comfort to fellow prisoners.

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Bernard Gimbel

Businessman, Gimbel's Department Stores
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1966 58 years ago — 81 years old

Founded Gimbel's Department Stores in the early 1900s, establishing a pioneering retail chain that expanded to multiple locations across the United States. Played a significant role in popularizing the concept of department stores by introducing innovative retail practices and modern merchandising techniques. Oversaw the company's growth during the mid-20th century, helping to shape the landscape of American retail. Contributed to philanthropic efforts, supporting various community initiatives and organizations.

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Frederic Lewy

Neurologist known for Lewy bodies discovery
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1950 74 years ago — 65 years old

A German-American neurologist and academic, contributions included pioneering research in the field of neurology. Researched the pathology of Parkinson's disease, discovering pathological inclusions within neurons now referred to as Lewy bodies. These findings significantly advanced the understanding of various neurodegenerative diseases. Worked in several medical institutions and played a crucial role in establishing neurology as a distinct specialty in medicine. Published numerous scholarly articles, contributing to medical literature and education.

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Kaka Kalelkar

Indian Hindi Writer and Poet
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1981 43 years ago — 96 years old

Contributed significantly to Hindi literature through poetry, essays, and criticism. Played a pivotal role in the development of modern Hindi literature. Advocated for social reforms and was involved in various cultural movements. Served as the editor of prominent literary magazines and published numerous works that explored themes of nationalism and identity.

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Erich Klausener

German soldier and politician
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1934 91 years ago — 49 years old

Served as a prominent figure in Germany during the early 20th century, contributing to both military and political spheres. Played a significant role in the Catholic Center Party and was involved in political opposition during the rise of the Nazi Party. Actively opposed the regime's actions against various groups, particularly focusing on the protection of civil rights. Died during the Night of the Long Knives, a significant purge of political opponents.

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Seishirō Itagaki

Japanese general and military leader
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1948 76 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent general in the Imperial Japanese Army, served as a military leader during critical periods leading up to and including World War II. Played significant roles in military strategies and operations in China. Contributed to the Japanese military's expansionist policies during the conflict. Held various high-ranking positions within the army, influencing military doctrine and engagement. After the war, faced prosecution as a war criminal. Died in 1948 while still engaged in post-war trials.

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Susan Sutherland Isaacs

Psychologist; author of 'Child and Society'
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1948 76 years ago — 63 years old

A significant figure in psychology and psychoanalysis, focused on child development and education. Studied the psychological aspects of children's play and learning. Worked at the Tavistock Clinic and contributed to the fields of child analysis and education. Engaged in research that linked psychoanalytic principles to the educational process and child-rearing practices. Published works that provided insights into the emotional and social development of children.

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Hasan Saka

Turkish politician, 7th Prime Minister
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1960 65 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 7th Prime Minister of Turkey from 1946 to 1947. Oversaw the early post-war period in Turkey characterized by political changes and economic challenges. Involved in the transition of Turkey towards multi-party democracy. Held various government positions before ascension to the premiership, contributing to the shaping of modern Turkish governance during a formative time in the country's history.

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