What Happened This Year 1905

Born in 1905

Robert Donat

English actor in classic films
Born
March 18th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1958 66 years ago — 53 years old

An acclaimed English actor. Achieved significant recognition during the 1930s and 1940s. Gained prominence for the role in the film 'Goodbye, Mr. Chips' which showcased a teacher's life journey. Also performed in 'The Thirty-Nine Steps', a classic thriller that became associated with British cinema. His performances garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards.

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Albert Speer

German architect and politician
Born
March 19th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1981 43 years ago — 76 years old

An architect and politician, played a key role in the Nazi regime. Served as Minister of Armaments and War Production from 1942 to 1945, significantly increasing munitions production during World War II. Spearheaded architectural projects under Hitler, including the design of the new Reich Chancellery and proposals for the total reconfiguration of Berlin. Captured by Allied forces in 1945 and sentenced to 20 years in prison at Nuremberg, where he later expressed remorse for his actions.

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Jean Galia

French rugby player and boxer
Born
March 20th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1949 76 years ago — 44 years old

Born in 1905, a prominent figure in French rugby and boxing. Played rugby for the national team and competed at the highest levels, contributing to the sport's growth in France. Transitioned to boxing, where notable achievements included winning championships during an active career in the mid-20th century. Involved in various sports organizations, promoting athletic development in France.

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Phyllis McGinley

American author and poet with Pulitzer
Born
March 21st, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent American author and poet, recognized for a keen observation of suburban life and domestic themes. Contributed significantly to literature through various forms, including essays and poetry. Won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1961 for the collection 'Times Three: Selected Verse from Three Decades.' Published several books, including 'The Province of Joy' and 'The Love Letters of Phyllis McGinley.' Work often reflected wit and insight into everyday experiences.

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Lale Andersen

Chanson singer-songwriter with 'Lili Marleen'
Born
March 23rd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1972 52 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1905 in Germany, a chanson singer-songwriter gained prominence in the 1940s with the song 'Lili Marleen', which became an enduring war-time anthem. Originally a cabaret performer, she transitioned to recording and gained widespread popularity throughout Europe. Her music captured the emotions of her time, resonating deeply with both soldiers and civilians during World War II. Following the war, continued to perform and record, leaving a lasting legacy in the German music scene.

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Albrecht Mertz von Quirnheim

German colonel in World War II
Born
March 25th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 39 years old

Served as a colonel in the German Army during World War II, Mertz von Quirnheim played a significant role in military operations and strategy. His career was marked by his involvement in key battles and his efforts to navigate the complexities of wartime command. He was involved in the planning of the July 20 plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler, reflecting his opposition to the Nazi regime. Following the failure of the assassination attempt, he faced severe consequences.

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André Cluytens

Conductor with acclaimed recordings
Born
March 26th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1967 58 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent conductor, renowned for his work with major orchestras across Europe. Directed the Orchestre National de France and the Berlin Philharmonic, gaining recognition for interpretations of classical works. Served as music director of the Théâtre National de l'Opéra in Paris. Throughout a distinguished career, collaborated with various prestigious artists and contributed to several acclaimed recordings. His interpretations of works by Richard Wagner, Gustav Mahler, and Claude Debussy remain influential in classical music.

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Viktor Frankl

Neurologist and psychiatrist, logotherapy
Born
March 26th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1997 27 years ago — 92 years old

Austrian neurologist and psychiatrist developed the psychological approach known as logotherapy. This method focuses on finding meaning in life, particularly in the context of suffering. Personal experiences as a Holocaust survivor influenced theories and writings. Authored 'Man's Search for Meaning', detailing experiences in concentration camps and the importance of purpose in life. The work has been translated into multiple languages and remains influential in psychology and philosophy.

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Elsie MacGill

Canadian-American engineer and author
Born
March 27th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1980 44 years ago — 75 years old

Significant contributions in engineering and literature were made. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Hawker Hurricane aircraft during World War II. Authored works that focused on women's roles in engineering and advocated for women's rights. Actively participated in the engineering community, promoting the involvement of women in technical fields.

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