What Happened This Year 1905

Born in 1905

Abraham Zapruder

Businessman and filmmaker of historic footage
Born
May 15th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 65 years old

An American businessman and amateur photographer filmed the Zapruder film, which captured the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. This film became one of the most studied pieces of evidence in American history, providing key visual evidence regarding the events of that day. Zapruder was present at Dealey Plaza with a Bell & Howell 8mm camera when the events unfolded. The film was later used in various investigations and has influenced discussions on the topic of presidential security and the media's role in political events.

Continue Reading

Henry Fonda

American actor in classic films
Born
May 16th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1982 42 years ago — 77 years old

An influential American actor whose career spanned over five decades. Became prominent in the 1930s and gained recognition for performances in films such as 'The Grapes of Wrath', '12 Angry Men', and 'On Golden Pond'. Fonda's work earned him accolades and cemented a legacy in Hollywood. He was also a recipient of the Academy Award for Best Actor for 'On Golden Pond'.

Continue Reading

Ruth Alexander

Pioneering American pilot
Born
May 18th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1930 95 years ago — 25 years old

Born in 1905, this individual was a significant figure in early aviation. Obtained a pilot's license in 1927, becoming one of the first women in the United States to achieve this milestone. Worked as a stunt pilot in the late 1920s and participated in cross-country air races. Established a notable record in long-distance flying and earned significant acclaim for contributions to aviation. In the 1930s, this individual became an advocate for women's involvement in aviation and offered inspiration for future generations of female pilots.

Continue Reading

Hedley Verity

English cricketer and soldier
Born
May 18th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1943 81 years ago — 38 years old

A prominent cricketer, garnered attention for exceptional left-arm spin bowling. Represented Yorkshire County Cricket Club from 1925 to 1939, becoming one of the leading bowlers of his era. Achieved remarkable success during his international career, playing for the English national team and participating in several Ashes series against Australia. Served as a soldier during World War II, being commissioned into the Green Howards regiment. His cricketing achievements remain celebrated even after his early death in 1943.

Continue Reading

Tom Driberg

British politician and journalist
Born
May 22nd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1976 48 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1905, this individual served as a British Member of Parliament for the Labour Party from 1942 to 1974. The person also worked as a journalist and authored several books. The individual was known for involvement in various social issues and was active in the anti-apartheid movement. Additionally, played a role in the campaign for civil liberties and supported policies that aligned with leftist ideologies.

Continue Reading

Bodo von Borries

German physicist, co-invented electron microscope
Born
May 22nd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1956 69 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1905, a German physicist contributed significantly to the field of microscopy. Co-invented the electron microscope, which revolutionized the ability to observe microscopic structures at unprecedented levels of detail. Engaged in academic research and served in various educational institutions, advancing the study of physics and engineering. His work laid the foundation for numerous technological developments in scientific research.

Continue Reading

George Nakashima

Woodworker and architect, crafted furniture
Born
May 24th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1990 35 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent woodworker and architect, this individual contributed significantly to the field of furniture design, incorporating Japanese aesthetic principles into modern American woodworking. After World War II, he established a furniture studio in New Hope, Pennsylvania, that became a center for handcrafted wood furniture. The studio's pieces are characterized by their natural materials and organic forms, reflecting a commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability. This individual also explored the artistic possibilities of wood through sculptural forms and functional designs, earning recognition in both art and architectural circles throughout a prolific career.

Continue Reading

Mikhail Sholokhov

Russian novelist, Nobel Prize winner.
Born
May 24th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1984 41 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent Soviet writer, authored literary works that depicted the life of the Cossacks in the early 20th century. Sholokhov gained international acclaim for the novel 'And Quiet Flows the Don,' which presented the complexities of personal and political life during the Russian Revolution and Civil War. His writing style combined realism with the rich oral tradition of Cossack folklore, earning him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1965 for his achievements. Other notable works include 'The Silent Don' and numerous short stories that reflect the turbulent times of his homeland.

Continue Reading

Sebastian Shaw

English actor and playwright of 'Star Wars'
Born
May 29th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1994 30 years ago — 89 years old

An English actor and playwright, activities spanned theater and film. Directed and produced various stage productions, contributing to the performing arts. Best recognized for portraying the character Anakin Skywalker in 'Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi'. In theater, earned respect for plays written and directed. Active in the industry from the 1930s until the 1980s.

Continue Reading