What Happened This Year 1945

People Who Died in 1945

Eduard Wirths

German physician and SS officer
Born
September 4th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1945 79 years ago — 36 years old

Graduated from medical school and became a physician. Joined the SS and served as a medical officer at Auschwitz concentration camp during World War II. Conducted medical experiments on inmates and was involved in the selection process for life and death. After the war, faced trial for war crimes. Sentenced to death and executed in 1948.

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William Seabrook

Occultist and journalist, wrote 'The Magic Island'
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1945 79 years ago — 61 years old

An American journalist and occultist engaged in exploring various cultures, particularly those in the Caribbean. Conducted extensive studies on voodoo practices, providing insights into rituals and the beliefs surrounding them. Wrote influential works on the subject, including 'The Magic Island', which detailed experiences with Haitian voodoo. Also worked as a newspaper reporter, contributing to various publications. His explorations and writings contributed to a greater understanding of the mystical and supernatural elements in different cultures.

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Hans Geiger

Physicist and inventor of Geiger counter
Born
September 30th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1945 79 years ago — 62 years old

A German physicist contributed significantly to nuclear physics. Developed the Geiger counter, a device used for detecting and measuring ionizing radiation. Engaged in research that expanded understanding of radiation, including work with Ernest Rutherford. Held academic positions, including a professorship at the University of Freiburg, where continued to advance research in physics and radiation detection.

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Béla Bartók

Hungarian composer & ethnomusicologist
Born
March 25th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1945 79 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent figure in 20th-century music, this individual contributed significantly to the field of ethnomusicology while also establishing a unique compositional style. Influenced by folk music, compositions included orchestral works, chamber music, and piano pieces. The individual studied Hungarian and other Balkan folk melodies, integrating these elements into original compositions. In 1918, the individual co-founded the Ethnomusicological Society, further advancing the study of music. Major compositions reflect a blend of traditional and modern styles, demonstrating complex rhythms and innovative harmonies.

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Felix Salten

Austrian-Swiss author of Bambi
Born
September 6th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1945 79 years ago — 76 years old

An author and critic, contributed significantly to literature in the early 20th century. Wrote the children's novel 'Bambi, A Life in the Woods', published in 1923, which explored themes of nature and life in the forest. The story was later adapted into a successful animated film by Disney in 1942, bringing the narrative to a broader audience. Besides children's literature, engaged in journalism and theater, contributing to various publications throughout his career.

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Gottlieb Hering

German military captain during WWII
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1945 79 years ago — 58 years old

Served as a captain in the German military forces during World War II. Participated in various military engagements throughout the conflict. After the war, involvement in post-war activities followed until death in 1945.

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Pierre Laval

French politician, 101st Prime Minister
Born
June 28th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1945 79 years ago — 62 years old

Served as Prime Minister of France twice, first from 1931 to 1932 and again during the Vichy regime from 1940 to 1944. Played a significant role in French politics during the interwar period and World War II. After the war, faced trial and executed for high treason due to collaboration with Nazi Germany.

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N. C. Wyeth

American painter and illustrator
Born
October 22nd, 1882 142 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1945 79 years ago — 62 years old

This individual was a prominent American painter and illustrator, particularly recognized for work in children's books and classic literature. A member of the Wyeth family of artists, this individual illustrated notable works such as 'Treasure Island' and 'Robin Hood'. The vivid imagery and dynamic style contributed significantly to the appeal of these narratives, establishing a lasting legacy in American illustration.

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Plutarco Elías Calles

Mexican general and 40th President of Mexico
Born
September 25th, 1877 147 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1945 79 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the 40th President of Mexico from 1924 to 1928. Played a crucial role in the post-Revolutionary period, focusing on the consolidation of power and land reform. His presidency was marked by efforts to secularize the state and reduce the influence of the Catholic Church. After leaving office, established the National Revolutionary Party, which later evolved into the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), centralizing political power in Mexico. His political influence extended well beyond his presidency, having a lasting impact on Mexican politics for decades.

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