What Happened This Year 1925

Born in 1925

Colin Eglin

South African politician and soldier
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2013 11 years ago — 88 years old

Served in the South African military and entered politics in the 1960s. Was a member of the Progressive Party, advocating for non-racial democracy. Elected as a Member of Parliament, playing a crucial role in the anti-apartheid movement. Contributed to the establishment of the new South Africa after the end of apartheid. Retired from politics and continued to be involved in discussions on democratic governance until death in 2013.

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Billy Williamson

American guitarist of The Grand Ole Opry
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1996 28 years ago — 71 years old

Pioneered the use of steel guitar in country music. Joined The Grand Ole Opry in the late 1940s as a member of Roy Acuff's band, contributing significantly to the sound of country music. Played a key role in popularizing the steel guitar through performances and recordings. Worked with several notable artists during a career that spanned decades. Available recordings include classic country hits and collaborations that showcased the instrument's versatility.

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Marcello Alencar

Brazilian politician, 57th Governor of Rio
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2014 10 years ago — 89 years old

Held the position of the 57th Governor of Rio de Janeiro from 1995 to 1999, serving as a member of the Brazilian Democratic Movement. Focused on urban development and public security initiatives during the governorship. Before that, was a notable lawyer with connections in both the legal and political spheres. His tenure saw significant changes in the state administration in response to public needs.

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John Tower

American politician and soldier
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1991 33 years ago — 66 years old

Served as a United States senator from Texas for 24 years. Played a significant role in defense policy and military affairs. Held various positions within the Senate, including Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. After leaving the Senate, engaged in academia and served as a professor at a Texas university. Contributed to shaping national security policy during the Cold War.

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Johnny Stompanato

American bodyguard and soldier
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1958 66 years ago — 33 years old

Served as a bodyguard for various high-profile individuals and was a soldier in the United States Army. Stompanato had a notable association with actress Lana Turner, which garnered significant media attention. His life ended when he was fatally stabbed in a domestic incident involving Turner’s daughter. This incident prompted widespread media coverage and public interest.

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Phillip V. Tobias

Paleontologist and academic in South Africa
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
June 7th, 2012 12 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent paleontologist and academic, significant contributions were made to the understanding of human evolution. The focus included the study of fossil hominids from sites such as Sterkfontein and Swartkrans. Involved in the formation and support of various educational and paleontological institutions in South Africa. Served as a professor of anatomy and worked as a director at the Transvaal Museum, influencing the field through education and research publications.

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Michel Bouquet

Actor in French theater and cinema
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
April 13th, 2022 2 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent figure in French theater and film, contributed significantly to both mediums for several decades. Gained recognition for performances in numerous plays and films, showcasing versatility across various genres. Collaborated with esteemed directors and became a key player in contemporary French drama. Received accolades for performances, including prestigious awards. His role in the film 'The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie' demonstrated a unique blend of comedy and social critique, while work in plays like 'Waiting for Godot' highlighted profound theatrical talent.

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Rolf Rendtorff

Theologian with academic contributions
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2014 10 years ago — 89 years old

Academic career spanned several decades, emphasizing biblical studies and hermeneutics. Played a pivotal role in the development of Old Testament theology. Served as a professor at the University of Tübingen and contributed significantly to the understanding of the text and interpretation of the Hebrew Bible. Authored numerous works, influencing theological thought in the 20th century.

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Chuck Brayton

Baseball coach and player at Washington State
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2015 9 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent baseball player and coach, contributed significantly to collegiate baseball. Played for the Washington State Cougars during the 1950s and achieved All-American honors. Transitioned to coaching, serving as head coach for Washington State for over two decades, where led the team to multiple NCAA tournament appearances and a conference championship.

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