What Happened This Year 1905

Born in 1905

Simo Häyhä

Finland's legendary World War II sniper
Born
December 17th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2002 22 years ago — 96 years old

A Finnish soldier achieved significant notoriety during the Winter War (1939-1940) between Finland and the Soviet Union. Renowned for exceptional marksmanship skills, recorded over 500 confirmed kills as a sniper. Utilized a Finnish M28/30 rifle and took advantage of the winter landscape to conceal movements. Adopted a strategy that involved minimizing exposure and maximizing stealth, earning the nickname 'White Death.' Survived serious injuries and continued to lead a private life after the war until passing away in 2002.

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Mohammad Hidayatullah

Indian Chief Justice and Vice President
Born
December 17th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1992 32 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the 11th Chief Justice of India from 1968 to 1970, significantly impacting the Indian legal system. Held the position of the sixth Vice President of India from 1979 to 1984, participating in legislative functions and presidential duties. Contributed to legal education and wrote extensively on various legal topics. Actively involved in politics and addressed key judicial reforms during tenure.

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Erico Verissimo

Brazilian author of 'O Tempo e o Vento'
Born
December 17th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Brazil, a prolific author and translator focused on Brazilian literature. Active from the 1930s, produced several celebrated novels that explored regional themes and human experiences in Brazilian society. His most notable work, 'O Tempo e o Vento', received critical acclaim and played a significant role in Brazilian fiction. Also worked as a translator, bringing international literature to Brazilian readers. His influence extended beyond literature, contributing to cultural discussions in Brazil throughout the 20th century.

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Irving Kahn

Businessman and investment advisor
Born
December 19th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 110 years old

Pioneered investment strategies and founded an investment firm. Specialized in value investing and became recognized as a leading authority in the field. Served as a professor and shared insights on investment principles. Involved with various financial education initiatives throughout a lengthy career.

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Giovanni Lurani

Italian race car driver and engineer
Born
December 19th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Italy in 1905, this individual started a career in automobile racing, competing in various prestigious events throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Also recognized for engineering innovations in the automotive field, this individual combined racing skills with technical expertise, contributing to advancements in car design and performance. In addition to racing, worked as a journalist, sharing insights on the racing industry and automotive technology. The career included participation in the Mille Miglia and the Targa Florio.

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Anthony Powell

English soldier and author
Born
December 21st, 1905 119 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2000 24 years ago — 94 years old

Served in the British Army during World War II. Began writing novels after the war, with a significant focus on English society. Authored the twelve-volume work 'A Dance to the Music of Time,' which explored themes of time, memory, and the passage of life. Received various literary accolades during a prolific writing career, contributing essays and criticism as well.

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Pierre Levegh

French racing driver
Born
December 22nd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1955 69 years ago — 49 years old

Competed in motor racing during the 1950s, primarily in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Achieved recognition for driving for the Mercedes-Benz team, contributing to its success in endurance racing. The 1952 race marked a significant moment as part of the era's competitive automotive scene. Experienced a tragic accident during the 1955 Le Mans race, which led to changes in racing regulations due to its impact.

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Kenneth Rexroth

American poet and translator
Born
December 22nd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1982 42 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent poet, translator, and academic, this individual significantly contributed to 20th-century American literature. Active in the influential San Francisco Poetry Renaissance, produced a body of work that combined personal experience with an interest in Eastern philosophy and spirituality. Worked on translations of classical Japanese poetry, bringing awareness of haiku to a wider audience. Engaged in literary criticism and was involved in leftist political movements throughout his career, fostering a dialogue on social issues through poetry and prose.

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Pierre Brasseur

Actor and screenwriter with notable films
Born
December 22nd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1972 52 years ago — 66 years old

An influential actor and screenwriter, recognized for significant roles in French cinema. Achieved prominence in the mid-20th century through performances in films such as 'La Grande Illusion' and 'Les Enfants du Paradis'. Developed a distinctive style that contributed to the artistic landscape of the time. Also engaged in screenwriting, adding depth to various projects throughout a lengthy career.

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