What Happened This Year 1925

Born in 1925

Tommy Ridgley

American singer and bandleader
Born
October 30th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in the New Orleans music scene, this singer and bandleader played a pivotal role in the development of rhythm and blues. With a career spanning several decades, gained recognition for contributions to the genre, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s through performances and recordings. Formed and led the band Tommy Ridgley and His Band, which became known for energetic live shows. Recorded significant hits that highlighted the vibrant cultural landscape of New Orleans. His work not only entertained but also influenced the growth and popularity of the R&B genre across the United States.

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John Pople

Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Born
October 31st, 1925 99 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2004 21 years ago — 78 years old

A chemist and academic contributed to the development of computational methods in quantum chemistry. His work provided significant insights into chemical processes, leading to advancements in molecular modeling. Pople's pioneering efforts in the field established new methods for computational simulations in chemistry. He collaborated with various institutions and made lasting contributions that shaped modern chemistry practices. Pople was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1998 for his foundational contributions to computational quantum chemistry.

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Robert B. Rheault

American Colonel and Military Leader
Born
October 31st, 1925 99 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2013 11 years ago — 87 years old

Served as a U.S. Army Colonel during the Vietnam War. Commanded the 5th Special Forces Group, overseeing the U.S. military operations in the region. During service, engaged in counterinsurgency and unconventional warfare strategies. Took part in major operations against Viet Cong forces. Faced controversy and legal challenges regarding conduct during the war, including charges related to the alleged killing of a captured enemy soldier, which were later dropped. Retired from military service and lived a life in the civilian sector.

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Doris Roberts

American actress, 'Everybody Loves Raymond'
Born
November 4th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2016 8 years ago — 90 years old

An American actress with a career spanning several decades, celebrated for roles in television and film. Featured prominently in the sitcom 'Everybody Loves Raymond' as Marie Barone, a mother figure. Other notable appearances included 'Remington Steele' and 'Murder, She Wrote'. Received multiple Primetime Emmy Awards for her performances, showcasing talent in both comedic and dramatic roles.

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Richard Burton

Welsh actor in 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?'
Born
November 10th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1984 40 years ago — 58 years old

Born in Wales, an acclaimed actor and singer gained recognition for a powerful stage presence and distinctive voice. Achieved prominence in film during the 1960s and 1970s. Starred in film adaptations of literary classics, including 'Cleopat­­ra' and 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?', showcasing dramatic range. Frequently collaborated with Elizabeth Taylor, both on-screen and off-screen. Received numerous accolades throughout a career spanning over four decades, including two Academy Award nominations for Best Actor.

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Jonathan Winters

Comedian and actor, notably in 'Mork & Mindy'
Born
November 11th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2013 11 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent comedian, actor, and screenwriter, celebrated for unique improvisational skills and comedic style. Gained recognition during the 1950s and 1960s with numerous television appearances. Starred as a recurring character on 'Mork & Mindy' alongside Robin Williams, showcasing a blend of eccentric characters and wit. Received multiple awards, including an Emmy for his performances. Authored books highlighting personal experiences and humor. Continued to perform stand-up comedy and act in films throughout his career, influencing generations of comedians with his innovative approach to comedy.

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John Guillermin

Director of 'The Towering Inferno'
Born
November 11th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 90 years old

An English-American director, producer, and screenwriter. Began a career in film during the 1950s, contributing to both British and American cinema. Directed the classic disaster film 'The Towering Inferno' in 1974, which became a hallmark of the genre. Also worked on notable films such as 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' and 'King Kong' (1976), showcasing abilities in both drama and action films. Received praise for innovative storytelling and cinematic techniques throughout his career.

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June Whitfield

English actress in television and film
Born
November 11th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 93 years old

An accomplished English actress participated in a variety of television series and films. Gained recognition for performances in the BBC sitcoms 'Terry and June' and 'Absolutely Fabulous'. Also appeared in numerous radio shows and theatrical productions throughout her career. With a career spanning over seven decades, contributed significantly to British entertainment.

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James Mellaart

Archaeologist known for Çatalhöyük
Born
November 14th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
July 29th, 2012 12 years ago — 86 years old

An English archaeologist and author, focused on the study of Neolithic sites in Anatolia. Conducted extensive research at Çatalhöyük, one of the oldest and most significant archaeological sites in the world, uncovering evidence of early urban life. Published numerous works on the subject, contributing to the understanding of prehistoric cultures. Involved in significant debates regarding the origins of agriculture and urbanism in the region.

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