What Happened This Year 1905

Historical Events from This Year 1905 (View all 46)

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Workers' Protest Leads to Massacre in Russia

January 22nd, 1905 120 years ago

A peaceful protest led by workers in Saint Petersburg escalated into violence when imperial troops opened fire on demonstrators. The workers aimed to present a petition for better working conditions and political reforms to Tsar Nicholas II. The march, which began in the city and gathered thousands, ended tragically with numerous casualties, igniting widespread outrage and unrest across the Russian Empire.

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Economics & Industry

Discovery of the Cullinan Diamond

January 26th, 1905 120 years ago

The Cullinan Diamond, weighing 3,106.75 carats, was discovered at the Premier Mine near Pretoria, South Africa. Found by miner Frederick Wells, the diamond stands as the largest gem-quality diamond ever unearthed. Upon its discovery, it was noted for its incredible clarity and size, captivating both the local community and the world. The enormous stone was later presented to King Edward VII of Great Britain, sparking a wave of interest and exploration into diamond mining.

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Health & Medicine

Inauguration of the General Hospital of Mexico

February 5th, 1905 120 years ago

The General Hospital of Mexico was inaugurated, establishing itself as a key medical institution with an emphasis on four key specialties: surgery, gynecology, pediatrics, and internal medicine. This modern facility aimed to improve healthcare access in Mexico City, reflecting the growing medical advancements in the early 20th century.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of Grand Duke Sergei Alexandrovich

February 17th, 1905 120 years ago

Grand Duke Sergei Alexandrovich of Russia was assassinated by Socialist Revolutionary Ivan Kalyayev in the Kremlin, marking a pivotal moment in the tumultuous political climate leading up to the Russian Revolution. Kalyayev threw a bomb at the Grand Duke while he was on his way to a meeting. This assassination underscored the growing tensions between the imperial government and revolutionary factions, as well as the increasing willingness of revolutionaries to resort to violence to achieve their goals.

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Health & Medicine

Supreme Court's Ruling on Smallpox Vaccination

February 20th, 1905 120 years ago

The U.S. Supreme Court upheld Massachusetts's mandatory smallpox vaccination policy in a landmark case, supporting public health measures against contagious diseases. The court ruled that individual liberties can be overridden by the government's responsibility to protect public health. Jacobson, who refused vaccination claiming it violated personal liberties, challenged the law, prompting this significant legal decision.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Formation of the First Rotary Club

February 23rd, 1905 120 years ago

Paul Harris, a Chicago attorney, met with three businessmen to establish the Rotary Club, the world's first service organization. This gathering aimed at creating a platform for professionals to exchange ideas and promote community service. The founding members sought to create a networking group that emphasized ethical business practices while engaging in philanthropic efforts. The meeting took place at a Chicago restaurant, paving the way for a global movement focused on service and fellowship.

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Born in 1905 (View all 329)

Karl Guthe Jansky

Physicist and engineer in radio astronomy
Born
October 22nd, 1904 120 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1950 75 years ago — 45 years old

Contributions to the field of radio astronomy primarily led to the discovery of cosmic radio waves. Work involved the development of the first radio telescope, which detected radio emissions from the Milky Way. Research helped lay the foundation for modern astrophysics and contributed to the understanding of astronomical phenomena. Involved in experiments that sought to identify sources of radio frequency interference.

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Stanisław Mazur

Mathematician and theorist
Born
January 1st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1905, a mathematician specialized in functional analysis and topology. Contributed to the field through research and teaching, influencing future generations in mathematics. Published numerous papers and worked on a variety of mathematical problems. Held academic positions at several institutions and collaborated with notable mathematicians during his career.

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Michael Tippett

English composer and conductor
Born
January 2nd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1998 27 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1905, Tippett contributed significantly to 20th-century music through both composition and conducting. He studied at the Royal College of Music and began to establish his reputation with the opera 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' in 1960. Tippett's compositions encompass a range of genres, including orchestral, chamber, and vocal works. He served as conductor for various esteemed orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. His works often reflect intense personal and social themes, resonating deeply with audiences in Britain and beyond.

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Luigi Zampa

Italian director and screenwriter of films
Born
January 2nd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1991 33 years ago — 86 years old

Zampa directed and wrote several significant films during the Italian cinema's golden age, focusing on social issues and political themes. Notable works include 'Il Campiello', which adapted a play into a film, and 'La Spiaggia', which explored deeper societal themes. Zampa's films were characterized by their unique storytelling and rich character development. His work contributed to the cultural landscape of Italy in the mid-20th century and he played a crucial role in shaping Italian cinema.

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Anna May Wong

American actress in silent films
Born
January 3rd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1961 64 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1905, this actress became the first Chinese American film star in Hollywood. She appeared in notable films such as 'The Toll of the Sea' and 'Shanghai Express'. Wong's career spanned silent films and talkies, and she was recognized for her roles in various genres, from drama to comedy. Apart from her film work, she also performed on stage and made television appearances, including a role in the series 'The Gallery of Madame Liu-Tsong', where she played the lead character. Wong broke stereotypes of Asian women in film and paved the way for future generations of Asian American actors.

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Dante Giacosa

Italian automotive engineer and designer
Born
January 3rd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1996 28 years ago — 91 years old

An influential automotive engineer, contributions included the design of several notable Fiat models during the mid-20th century. Worked on vehicles such as the Fiat 600 and Fiat 124, which became highly popular in Europe. Also involved in the development of the iconic Fiat 500, which transformed urban mobility in post-war Italy. Integrated innovative engineering techniques, emphasizing compact design and efficiency.

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People Who Died in 1905 (View all 71)

Kārlis Baumanis

Latvian composer, creator of national anthems
Born
1835 190 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1905 120 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent Latvian composer, contributions included the development of choral music and the establishment of a national identity through song. Most recognized for composing the music to the Latvian national anthem, a significant cultural symbol. Worked extensively in the realm of folk music and organized various choirs that promoted national pride. The legacy includes a lasting influence on Latvian music and culture, with several choral works that continue to be performed today.

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Ernst Abbe

German physicist and engineer; optics pioneer
Born
January 23rd, 1840 185 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1905 120 years ago — 64 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of optics and microscopy. Worked closely with Carl Zeiss to develop high-quality optical instruments. Formulated the Abbe Sine Condition, which describes the conditions for achieving optimal resolution in microscopes. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Carl Zeiss AG company, transforming it into a leading manufacturer of optical products. Advocated for the rights of workers and contributed to social reforms in Jena, Germany.

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George Thorn

Australian politician and Premier of Queensland
Born
October 12th, 1838 186 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1905 120 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the sixth Premier of Queensland from 1888 to 1890. Played a role in the development of the region's infrastructure and governance. Introduced significant railway expansions and land reforms during the tenure in office.

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Henri Germain

French banker, founder of Le Crédit Lyonnais
Born
1824 201 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1905 120 years ago — 81 years old

Established Le Crédit Lyonnais in 1863, which became one of the largest banks in France. Contributed significantly to the development of the banking sector during the 19th century, fostering economic growth in France. Participated in political activities, influencing financial policies of the time. His banking institution played a crucial role in financing industrial projects and infrastructure.

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Louis-Ernest Barrias

French sculptor and academic
Born
April 13th, 1841 183 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1905 120 years ago — 63 years old

Contributed significantly to French sculpture during the late 19th century. Studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and became a prominent figure in the artistic community. Created notable works that reflect classical themes and intricacies of human form. His piece 'La France' was awarded the Grand Prix de Rome in 1876, symbolizing national pride. Held a position as a member of the Académie des Beaux-Arts, influencing future generations of artists through both creation and education.

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Konstantin Savitsky

Russian painter of landscapes and portraits
Born
1844 181 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1905 120 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1844, a prominent Russian painter focused on landscapes and genre scenes. Studied at the Imperial Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg. Developed a style characterized by rich color and detailed representations of rural life. Participated in exhibitions, contributing to the emergence of the Peredvizhniki movement, which aimed to create art that depicted social issues and the lives of ordinary people. His works reflect a deep appreciation for nature and human experiences, with a particular interest in portraying the life and struggles of peasants. Died in 1905.

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