What Happened This Year 1945

People Who Died in 1945

Emil Hácha

Czech lawyer and Czechoslovak president
Born
July 12th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1945 79 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 3rd President of Czechoslovakia during a tumultuous period leading up to World War II. Assumed office in 1939, succeeding Edvard Beneš. Participated in significant political negotiations and faced challenges maintaining national sovereignty against German influence. After the occupation of Czechoslovakia, moved to Germany and lived in exile for many years until his return post-war.

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Yunus Nadi Abalıoğlu

Turkish journalist and newspaper founder
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1945 79 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent Turkish journalist and founder of the newspaper 'Cumhuriyet', focused on advocating for democracy and secularism in Turkey. Established 'Cumhuriyet' in 1924, contributing significantly to the Turkish press. Played a key role in shaping public opinion during the early years of the Republic of Turkey, emphasizing the importance of modern journalism and freedom of expression. Worked as a member of the Turkish National Assembly, participating in political discourse and developments.

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John Curtin

Australian Prime Minister during WWII
Born
January 8th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1945 79 years ago — 60 years old

Served as the 14th Prime Minister of Australia from 1941 to 1945. Played a crucial role in leading Australia through World War II, addressing national security and mobilization issues. Advocated for closer relations with the United States, particularly during the Pacific War. Promoted social welfare policies and post-war reconstruction efforts, contributing to the foundation of the modern welfare state in Australia.

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Boris Galerkin

Mathematician and engineer, creator of FEM
Born
March 4th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1945 79 years ago — 74 years old

Born in Russia, contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and engineering. Developed the finite element method, a fundamental technique in engineering analysis and simulation. Worked on various problems in structural mechanics and elasticity theory. Published numerous research papers that laid the groundwork for future developments in numerical methods.

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Wolfram Freiherr von Richthofen

German Field Marshal
Born
October 10th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1945 79 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1895, served in the German Air Force during World War II. Commanded Luftwaffe units and played a key role in several major operations, including the Battle of France and the invasion of the Soviet Union. Noted for skills in aerial warfare strategy and operational command. After the war, held in Allied captivity before passing away in 1973.

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Alla Nazimova

Actress and producer from the silent era
Born
June 3rd, 1879 145 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1945 79 years ago — 66 years old

Born in Ukraine, a prominent actress and producer emerged in the early 20th century, becoming a significant figure in American silent films and theater. She starred in notable films such as 'A Doll's House' and 'Camille.' Additionally, she was instrumental in the development of the film industry in Hollywood by establishing her own production company. Her work contributed to the changing landscape of female representation in cinema. Later in her career, she transitioned to sound films and stage productions, further showcasing her versatility as a performer and an artist.

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Ernst Busch

German actor and singer, performed in "Kuhle Wampe"
Born
January 22nd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1945 79 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1900, this individual gained recognition as an actor and singer in Germany. The artistic career began in the Weimar Republic and spanned across several decades, notably working in film and theater. One of the most significant works was the film "Kuhle Wampe" in 1932, which exemplified the political atmosphere of the time. Throughout the career, engagements included various prominent performing arts institutions. Later years saw involvement in both the film and singing spheres, often reflecting the socio-political dynamics of post-war Germany. Contributions to the cultural landscape continued until the end of the performing career.

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Paul Valéry

French poet and philosopher
Born
October 30th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1945 79 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in French literature, this poet and philosopher contributed significantly to the Symbolist movement. Initially trained in law, he pivoted to a literary career, gaining recognition for works such as "Le Cimetière marin" and essays on aesthetics and philosophy. His thoughts on consciousness and creativity have influenced literary and philosophical circles. He also served as a member of the Académie Française, reflecting his standing in French culture. Engaged with the ideas of modernism, his intellectual writings explore the nature of art and imagination.

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Pietro Mascagni

Italian composer of operas; Cavalleria Rusticana
Born
December 7th, 1863 161 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1945 79 years ago — 81 years old

An Italian composer and conductor primarily recognized for contributions to opera, particularly in the verismo style. Achieved fame with the one-act opera, 'Cavalleria Rusticana,' which premiered in 1890 and remains a staple in the operatic repertoire. Mascagni composed numerous other operas, including 'L'amico Fritz' and 'Zanetto.' In addition to opera, conducted various orchestras throughout Europe, showcasing a broad range of musical influences. His work in the late 19th and early 20th centuries helped shape the landscape of Italian opera, leading to a legacy that persists in the field of classical music.

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