What Happened This Year 1905

Born in 1905

Lilí Álvarez

Spanish tennis player and feminist author
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1998 27 years ago — 93 years old

Achieved prominence in tennis during the 1920s and 1930s, Álvarez competed in the French Championships, the Wimbledon Championships, and the US Championships. She won multiple titles in major tournaments across Europe. Besides tennis, she was an accomplished writer, contributing to feminist literature. Her advocacy focused on women's rights and gender equality, and she engaged in various social issues throughout her life.

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Idris Davies

Welsh poet and author of 'The Winds of Heaven'
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1953 72 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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Jock Cameron

South African cricketer and Test player
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1935 90 years ago — 30 years old

Participated in international cricket representing South Africa. Debuted in Test cricket in 1906 against England. Played a significant role as a middle-order batsman during his career, which spanned into the 1920s. Compiled notable innings and contributed consistently to the South African team in the early years of Test cricket. After retirement, remained involved in cricket, contributing to its development in the country.

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Rick Ferrell

Baseball player and coach, Hall of Famer
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1995 30 years ago — 90 years old

Played professional baseball as a catcher from 1929 to 1947. Spent the majority of his career with the Philadelphia Athletics and the Washington Senators. Served as a coach for various teams after retirement. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984, recognizing contributions to the sport as both a player and coach.

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László Kalmár

Hungarian mathematician and academic
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1976 49 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematical logic and the foundations of mathematics. Worked on the theory of computation and formulated the concept of Kalmár's algebra. Held a prominent position at the University of Szeged, influencing future generations of mathematicians. Published multiple works that explored the interplay between logic and mathematics, enhancing the understanding of computability.

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Reşat Ekrem Koçu

Turkish historian and poet
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1975 50 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent Turkish historian, scholar, and poet contributed significantly to the understanding of Turkish history and literature. Authored several important works, including the comprehensive history 'Istanbul History' and numerous articles analyzing various aspects of Ottoman and Turkish history. Efforts included the promotion of Turkish literary heritage and exploring cultural influences on Turkish identity. The legacy includes a deep exploration of Istanbul's past and its significance in the modern era.

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Jigme Wangchuck

Bhutanese king during the 20th century
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1952 73 years ago — 47 years old

A king who reigned from 1926 to 1952, overseeing significant political and social changes in Bhutan. Implemented policies that modernized the nation while respecting traditional values. Focused on strengthening the monarchy and centralizing governance. Established infrastructure projects to improve transportation and communication throughout Bhutan. Supported the preservation of Bhutanese culture and identity during a time of transition.

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Malek Bennabi

Algerian philosopher and author
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1973 52 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent philosopher and author, contributions spanned topics of civilization, culture, and identity, particularly in the context of Algeria's struggle for independence. Examined the relationship between Islam and modernity, advocating for a revival of Islamic thought. Authored several influential works, exploring the philosophical underpinnings of social progress and development, with a strong focus on the African and Arab experience.

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Giacinto Scelsi

Italian avant-garde composer
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1988 37 years ago — 83 years old

An Italian composer, Scelsi contributed significantly to contemporary music in the 20th century. Initially influenced by traditional Italian music, his work evolved toward avant-garde and experimental forms. Scelsi's compositions often focused on individual sound and texture, exploring microtonality and extended techniques. He composed chamber music, orchestral works, and pieces for solo instruments. Scelsi's later works include varying lengths of silence and an emphasis on improvisation, reflecting his interest in Eastern philosophy and mysticism. His unique approach set a precedent for future generations of composers, and his legacy remains influential in the realm of contemporary classical music.

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