What Happened This Year 1945

People Who Died in 1945

Theodor Dannecker

German captain, World War II officer
Born
March 27th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1945 79 years ago — 32 years old

Served as a captain in the German military during World War II. Participated in various military campaigns. After the war, held in captivity and later faced judgment for actions during the conflict. Died in December 1945.

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Charles Fabry

French physicist and academic
Born
June 11th, 1867 157 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1945 79 years ago — 78 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of optics and spectroscopy. Developed the technique of Fabry-Perot interferometry, which enhanced the analysis of light waves. Held a position as a professor at the University of Paris, where research on the interaction of light with matter was conducted. Engaged with various scientific societies and contributed to numerous publications in the field of physics.

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Irma Grese

Concentration camp guard during WWII
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1945 79 years ago — 22 years old

Worked as a guard at Auschwitz and Bergen-Belsen concentration camps during World War II. Grese joined the SS and was involved in the administration of the camps, characterized by harsh treatment of detainees. Captured by British troops in 1945, faced trial for war crimes, which resulted in a death sentence. Executed in December 1945.

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Elisabeth Volkenrath

Concentration camp supervisor
Born
September 5th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1945 79 years ago — 26 years old

Supervised prisoners at the women's concentration camp in Ravensbrück during World War II. Held the position of overseer and was involved in the administration of the camp. Volkenrath's role included the enforcement of brutal conditions for inmates. After the war, she faced trial for war crimes.

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Josef Kramer

Concentration camp commandant
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1945 79 years ago — 39 years old

Commanded the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp during World War II. Oversaw the operations of the camp from 1944 to 1945. Played a key role in the administration of Nazi concentration camp policies. Captured by British forces after the camp's liberation and tried for war crimes in 1945.

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Giovanni Agnelli

Italian businessman and Fiat founder
Born
August 13th, 1866 158 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1945 79 years ago — 79 years old

Established Fiat in 1899, transforming it into one of the largest automobile manufacturers in Italy. Oversaw the company's significant growth during the early 20th century, expanding its production capabilities and introducing various vehicle models. Played a crucial role in the Italian automotive industry's development, particularly during the post-World War I economic expansion. Actively engaged in the Italian business community and contributed to industrial advancements.

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Fumimaro Konoe

Japanese politician and Prime Minister
Born
October 12th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1945 79 years ago — 54 years old

Served as the 39th Prime Minister of Japan from 1940 to 1941. As Prime Minister, played a significant role during a crucial period of World War II. Advocated for military expansion and sought to strengthen Japan's position in Asia. Resigned amid increasing pressures and the changing tide of the war, later involved in post-war politics.

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George S. Patton

American General during World War II
Born
November 11th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1945 79 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent American general during World War II, played a crucial role in the European Theater of the conflict. Commanded the U.S. Third Army and led operations in the Normandy landings. Developed a reputation for aggressive tactics and rapid armored advancement. His leadership was pivotal in several key battles, including the Battle of the Bulge and the liberation of France.

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Josephine Sabel

American singer and comedian
Born
October 3rd, 1866 158 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1945 79 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1866, this individual became a significant figure in American entertainment. Achieving popularity as a singer and comedian, performances blended humor with musical talent. This person frequently appeared on stage during the vaudeville era, captivating audiences with engaging acts and memorable songs. Known for vibrant performances, this individual played a key role in shaping early American entertainment culture.

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