What Happened This Year 1905

Born in 1905

Howard Hughes

American pilot and film director
Born
December 24th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1976 50 years ago — 70 years old

An influential figure in aviation and film during the 20th century. Contributed significantly to the development of the aviation industry and held multiple aviation records. Guided a successful career in film direction, producing notable works such as 'Hell's Angels' and 'The Aviator'. Became known for innovative filmmaking techniques and high production values. Established Hughes Aircraft Company, which became a leading aerospace manufacturer. Faced challenges with personal issues but remained a prominent figure in business and technology until passing away in 1976.

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William Loeb III

American publisher and newspaper editor
Born
December 26th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1981 44 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent American publisher and newspaper editor played a significant role in the media landscape of New Hampshire. Served as publisher and editor of the Manchester Union Leader, a leading newspaper in the state. Advocated for conservative political views through editorial choices. Helped shape political discourse in New Hampshire, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s, through coverage of local and national issues.

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Cliff Arquette

Actor and comedian on television shows
Born
December 27th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1974 51 years ago — 68 years old

An American actor and comedian, one notable work involved portraying the character Charley Weaver on television. This character appeared regularly on various game shows and variety shows, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s. Arquette’s career also included performances in films such as 'The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit' and 'The Great Race'. His work extended to radio and stage, contributing to a long career in entertainment spanning several decades.

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Daniil Kharms

Russian poet and playwright
Born
December 30th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1942 84 years ago — 36 years old

An avant-garde poet and playwright, active during the 1920s and 1930s, contributed to the Leningrad poetic underground. Wrote absurdist works that challenged conventional narrative structures and realism, often reflecting the turbulence of the time. Arrested during the Stalinist purges, died in a psychiatric hospital in 1942. His writings have gained recognition posthumously, influencing the absurdist movement.

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Helen Dodson Prince

American astronomer and academic
Born
December 31st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 97 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, particularly in stellar classification and the understanding of variable stars. Held a prominent academic position at the University of California, Berkeley, where research focused on the spectral analysis of stars. Actively involved in educational initiatives that advanced the study of astronomy and supported women in science during a time of limited opportunities. Also served as a consultant on various scientific projects and published numerous research papers that enriched the academic community.

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John Dickson Carr

American author of detective novels
Born
November 30th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1977 49 years ago — 70 years old

Active during the mid-20th century, this author gained recognition for contributions to the mystery genre, particularly through works featuring locked-room mysteries. The most notable creation is fictional detective Dr. Gideon Fell, who appeared in several novels, including 'The Hollow Man' and 'The Case of the Constant Suicides'. In addition to novels, wrote plays and contributed to radio dramas, showcasing a versatile approach to storytelling. Received the Edgar Award for Best Novel and was honored as a Grand Master by the Mystery Writers of America.

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Idris Davies

Welsh poet and author of 'The Winds of Heaven'
Born
1905 121 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1953 73 years ago — 48 years old

A Welsh poet and author, contributed significantly to the literary scene in the 20th century. Worked as a coal miner and utilized personal experiences and observations in poetry. Wrote extensively about the struggles of working-class life in Wales. His collection 'The Winds of Heaven' published posthumously showcases an intimate portrayal of rural and industrial landscapes. Themes often revolved around the impact of social and economic changes on communities.

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Hermann Brück

Physicist and astronomer, co-discoverer of a comet
Born
1905 121 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2000 26 years ago — 95 years old

A physicist and astronomer with significant contributions to the field of celestial mechanics. Specialized in the study of comets, collaborated with a team in the discovery of the periodic comet 87P/Bus, which orbits the sun approximately every 6.5 years. Conducted research on astrophysics and the behavior of celestial bodies, publishing several influential papers during the career. Also worked at several prominent institutions in both Germany and Scotland, contributing to advancements in observational techniques and theoretical understanding within astronomy.

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Henry Wilcoxon

Actor and producer in film
Born
1905 121 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1984 42 years ago — 79 years old

An actor and producer primarily associated with the film industry, contributed to over 40 films in a career spanning several decades. Participated in early sound films and gained recognition for performances in films such as 'The Adventures of Marco Polo' and 'The Last Days of Pompeii'. Transitioned to behind-the-scenes work as a producer later in career, continuing involvement in motion pictures until the late 1960s.

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