What Happened This Year 1945

People Who Died in 1945

Francis William Aston

Nobel Prize-winning chemist and physicist
Born
September 1st, 1877 147 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1945 79 years ago — 68 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry and physics through the development of the mass spectrograph. This innovation allowed for precise measurements of atomic masses and the identification of isotopes, which advanced the understanding of chemical elements. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1922 for the invention of the mass spectrograph and the discovery of isotopes. Held various academic positions throughout his career and published numerous scientific papers, which furthered research in atomic structure and behavior.

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Ellen Glasgow

American author and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
April 22nd, 1873 151 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1945 79 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1873, this author became prominent in the early 20th century with works focusing on the American South and women's experiences. Notable for capturing the intricacies of Southern life, significant novels include 'Barren Ground' and 'The Descendant'. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1942 for 'In This Our Life'. A member of the Southern literary tradition, her writings reflect themes of social change, tradition, and conflict. The author influenced Southern literature and showcased the challenges that women faced in society during her time.

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Robert Benchley

Humorist and Actor known for 'The Spy',
Born
September 15th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1945 79 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent humorist and newspaper columnist, contributed significantly to American literature and entertainment during the early to mid-20th century. Wrote a series of humorous essays that appeared in publications such as The New Yorker. Gained recognition for the ability to blend wit with poignant observations of everyday life. Also acted in several films, including the adaptation of his own work titled 'The Spy'. His style influenced many writers and comedians who followed.

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Alexander Patch

American General and WWII leader
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1945 79 years ago — 56 years old

Served as a general in the United States Army during World War II. Commanded the U.S. Seventh Army in the Mediterranean Theater. Played a significant role in the invasion of southern France in August 1944, which facilitated the Allies' advance into Germany. Known for leadership during the Battle of the Colmar Pocket in early 1945. Contributed to various military strategies that were pivotal in the European theatre.

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Dwight F. Davis

Tennis player and U.S. Secretary of War
Born
July 5th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1945 79 years ago — 66 years old

Competed in tennis during the early 20th century and won the first Davis Cup in 1900. Served as the 49th U.S. Secretary of War from 1925 to 1929 under President Calvin Coolidge. In addition to contributions in sports, played a significant role in military leadership and policy during his tenure. After leaving public office, continued involvement in tennis and promoting the sport internationally.

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Thomas Hunt Morgan

American geneticist and Nobel laureate
Born
September 25th, 1866 158 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1945 79 years ago — 79 years old

A geneticist and biologist, he contributed significantly to the understanding of inheritance and gene linkage through work with the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Morgan's experiments established the chromosomal theory of inheritance, demonstrating that genes are located on chromosomes. For these contributions, he received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1933. His research laid the foundation for modern genetics, influencing future studies in heredity and gene mapping. He also taught at several institutions, including Columbia University, where he furthered the study of genetics.

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Richárd Weisz

Olympic champion wrestler from Hungary
Born
April 30th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1945 79 years ago — 66 years old

Competed in the heavyweight wrestling category during the early 20th century. Achieved significant success at the Olympic Games. Secured a gold medal at the 1900 Paris Olympics, becoming one of Hungary's early heroes in the sport. His contributions to wrestling have been recognized, and his legacy endures through the impact he had on Hungarian wrestling.

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Edmund Dwyer-Gray

Australian politician, 29th Premier of Tasmania
Born
April 2nd, 1870 154 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1945 79 years ago — 75 years old

Born in Ireland and later migrating to Australia, served as the 29th Premier of Tasmania. Held office from 1923 to 1928, led the Tasmanian Labor Party and engaged in various legislative reforms during the tenure. Worked on improving infrastructure and addressing social issues within the state, contributing to the development of Tasmania’s economy and public services.

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Yun Chi-ho

Korean activist and politician
Born
December 26th, 1864 160 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1945 79 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent figure in late 19th and early 20th century Korea, engaged in political reform and modernization processes. Participated in the establishment of the Korean National Assembly. Advocated for Korean independence against Japanese colonial rule. Helped draft the Korean Constitution in 1919, promoting democratic ideals. Contributed to educational reforms and supported the advancement of civil rights.

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