What Happened This Year 1905

Born in 1905

Leo Genn

British actor and barrister
Born
August 9th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent British actor and barrister, contributions to film and theater include notable performances. Genn studied law at the University of Oxford, becoming a barrister before pursuing a career in acting. He gained recognition in film during the 1940s, highlighting roles in productions such as 'The 39 Steps' and 'The Woman in White.' Genn served in the Royal Navy during World War II, influencing his later works. Post-war, he appeared in dramas and comedies, earning accolades for versatility on stage and screen.

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Era Bell Thompson

Journalist and author of 'American Daughter'
Born
August 10th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1986 38 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1905, this individual contributed significantly to journalism and literature through the experiences of African Americans. As a writer, published works included the autobiography 'American Daughter', which detailed life experiences and offered insights into race and identity in America. The individual served as editor of various national publications, providing a platform for voice and representation during pivotal moments in history. Education included attendance at a prestigious university, which led to a career that would influence future generations of writers and journalists.

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Erwin Chargaff

Biochemist and DNA structure contributor
Born
August 11th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2002 22 years ago — 96 years old

Born in Austria and later becoming an American citizen, Chargaff made significant contributions to biochemistry and molecular biology. He is best recognized for formulating Chargaff's rules, which describe the base pairing in DNA. His research laid critical groundwork for understanding the structure of DNA, influencing later discoveries in genetics. Chargaff was a professor at Columbia University, where he educated future scientists.

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Ernst Jaakson

Estonian diplomat and UN representative
Born
August 11th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1998 26 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1905, a diplomat represented Estonia during pivotal moments in international relations. Played a significant role in the post-World War II period, advocating for Estonian independence. Served as Estonia's ambassador to the United Nations and coordinated efforts to gain international recognition for Estonia's sovereignty. Engaged in various diplomatic missions and was active in discussions regarding Baltic states during the Cold War.

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Enoch Light

American bandleader and recording innovator
Born
August 18th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent bandleader and recording engineer, this individual contributed significantly to the music industry through innovative techniques in recording and sound quality. As the founder of the Command Records label, focus was placed on high-fidelity recordings that showcased orchestral and chamber music. The work included pioneering stereo recording techniques, which influenced the industry. Additionally, performance as a violinist featured prominently in early career, leading to collaborations with various orchestras. This individual was also known for creating unique arrangements that integrated jazz elements into classical pieces.

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Jack Teagarden

Trombonist and jazz vocalist
Born
August 20th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1964 61 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent figure in the world of jazz, this trombonist gained recognition for contributions to the genre as both a performer and a vocalist. Active in the early to mid-20th century, involvement with notable bands included the Jean Goldkette Orchestra and Louis Armstrong's groups. Renowned for a unique ability to blend instrumental proficiency with vocal performance, recordings showcased a style that influenced future musicians. Teagarden became a fixture in jazz clubs and participated in multiple recordings that are still celebrated today. The hallmark of his career included performing at the prestigious Carnegie Hall in 1947.

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Mikio Naruse

Japanese film director and screenwriter
Born
August 20th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 64 years old

Retained prominence in Japanese cinema during the 20th century, focusing on the emotional struggles of women within society. Directed several films that explored themes of love, loss, and social issues. Achieved recognition for the poetic style and craftsmanship evident in works that reflect the complexities of human relationships. Directed influential films such as 'Repast' and 'When a Woman Ascends the Stairs', which underscored the challenges faced by women in post-war Japan.

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Jean Gebser

Linguist and philosopher of consciousness
Born
August 20th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1973 51 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Germany, this linguist, poet, and philosopher made significant contributions to the understanding of human consciousness and cultural development. His work 'The Ever-Present Origin' explores the evolution of consciousness through various historical epochs. Gebser's theories focused on the relationship between language, culture, and perception, providing insights into the inherent structures of experience. He explored the integral nature of human existence, analyzing how different awareness modalities shape reality.

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Constant Lambert

English composer and conductor
Born
August 23rd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1951 73 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1905, this English figure contributed significantly to the world of music as both a composer and conductor. He studied at the Royal College of Music and composed various works including operas, orchestral pieces, and ballets. His most notable work includes the ballet 'Horatio', which reflects his abilities as a notable composer of his time. Lambert also served as the conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra, where he played an essential role in promoting contemporary music through performances and broadcasts.

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