What Happened This Year 1915

Born in 1915

Joe Kelly

Irish race car driver
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1995 29 years ago — 80 years old

A race car driver participated actively in the European racing circuit during the late 20th century. Competed in various prestigious events, showcasing exceptional driving skills and earning respect within the motorsport community. Engaged in several notable races and was a significant contender in the field.

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Thomas George Lanphier Jr.

Colonel and pilot, WWII ace
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1987 37 years ago — 72 years old

Served as a colonel in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Achieved recognition as a fighter ace credited with downing multiple enemy aircraft. Participated in numerous combat missions, demonstrating exceptional flying skills and strategic capabilities. After the war, continued service and contributed to military aviation advancements. Received various commendations and awards for bravery and leadership.

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Verne Winchell

Businessman, founder of Winchell's Donuts
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2002 22 years ago — 87 years old

Founded Winchell's Donuts, a popular donut chain in the United States. Started the business in 1948 in California, expanding rapidly throughout the region. The chain became well-known for its variety of donuts and established a significant presence in the fast-food breakfast market. Throughout the years, Winchell's Donuts opened numerous locations and became a staple in many communities, celebrated for its unique offerings and local appeal. The brand continues to operate under various ownership but retains its legacy as a significant player in the donut industry.

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Honeyboy Edwards

Blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2011 13 years ago — 96 years old

A prominent figure in the blues genre, this musician developed a distinctive slide guitar technique and a soulful vocal style. Emerging from the Mississippi Delta, significant contributions included the blending of traditional Delta blues with urban styles. This artist recorded multiple albums and performed extensively across the United States and internationally, bringing the essence of the Delta blues to broader audiences. Collaborations with various artists further enriched the musical landscape, showcasing a commitment to preserving and promoting blues music.

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Robert Furman

Engineer and intelligence officer
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2008 16 years ago — 93 years old

An American engineer and intelligence officer. Played a significant role in the U.S. Army's intelligence operations. Contributed to the development of advanced technologies for reconnaissance and surveillance. Served in key positions that influenced military strategy and national security during the Cold War.

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Nancy Bird Walton

Australian aviator and pioneer pilot
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2009 16 years ago — 94 years old

An aviator and pioneer in Australian aviation, contributions included establishing a female presence in a male-dominated field during the early 20th century. Acquired a pilot's license in 1933, at the age of 19, and became the youngest woman in the world to achieve this feat. In 1934, founded the Women's Air Training Corps to encourage women to pursue flying. During World War II, served as a transport pilot and provided valuable assistance to the Royal Australian Air Force. Established the Nancy Bird Walton Scholarship to support aspiring female pilots after her retirement. Her legacy is remembered as a trailblazer in the aviation industry.

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Georg von Boeselager

German soldier and resistance member
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1944 80 years ago — 29 years old

Served as a German officer in World War II. Played a key role in the July 20, 1944, plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler, contributing significant assistance in planning and executing the operation. His involvement in the resistance against the Nazi regime marked a crucial point in military opposition within Germany. Following the failed assassination attempt, he was arrested and ultimately executed for his actions. His legacy includes participation in crucial military strategies aimed at ending Nazi rule.

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Hans Namuth

Photographer of Jackson Pollock
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1990 34 years ago — 75 years old

German-American photographer specialized in abstract expressionism. Notable for a series of photographs capturing artist Jackson Pollock in the act of painting. These images highlighted Pollock's technique and the physicality of his work. Namuth's photography contributed to the understanding of Pollock's process and significance in the art world. He documented various cultural figures and artists over his career, showcasing their creative processes through his lens.

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Gorgeous George

Professional wrestler and entertainer
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1963 61 years ago — 48 years old

A prominent figure in professional wrestling during the 1940s and 1950s, a wrestler cultivated an extravagant persona that included flashy robes and elaborate entrances. Pioneered the use of showmanship in wrestling, contributing to its growth as a mainstream entertainment sport. Became one of the first wrestlers to achieve celebrity status and significantly influenced the portrayal of wrestlers as larger-than-life characters. Helped popularize televised wrestling, leading to increased viewership and attendance at events.

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