What Happened This Year 1945

People Who Died in 1945

Albert Jay Nock

American author and social critic
Born
October 13th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 75 years old

An influential theorist and author, focused on social criticism and classical liberalism. Authored notable works including 'Our Enemy, the State', which critiques government power and its impact on individual liberty. Contributed essays to various publications, showcasing a strong critique of welfare statism and advocating for personal autonomy and limited government. Involved in debates regarding individualism and societal structure during the early to mid-20th century. Influenced libertarian thinking and the American conservative movement through written works and public discourse.

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Gustav Flatow

German gymnast and Olympic medalist
Born
January 7th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 70 years old

Competed in gymnastics during the early 20th century, achieving notable success in international competitions. Participated in the 1896 Summer Olympics, contributing to the sport's development in Germany. Acquired several national titles and was a prominent figure in gymnastics, exemplifying the art and discipline of the sport.

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Georg Elser

Carpenter and Hitler's attempted assassin
Born
January 4th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 42 years old

A carpenter from Germany, involved in a plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler in 1939. Elser built a bomb and placed it in the Bürgerbräukeller in Munich, aiming to kill Hitler during a speech. The bomb detonated, but Hitler left the venue earlier than expected, and the assassination attempt failed. Elser was captured and subsequently imprisoned. He was executed in 1945 at the Flossenbürg concentration camp. His actions are often cited as a notable resistance effort against the Nazi regime.

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Kiyoshi Miki

Japanese philosopher and author
Born
January 5th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 48 years old

Contributed significantly to Japanese philosophy and the study of Western philosophical thought. Wrote extensively on topics such as ethics, aesthetics, and social philosophy, integrating Eastern and Western traditions. Miki's work often focused on the relationship between philosophy and cultural understanding. Involved in various educational initiatives, promoting philosophical discourse in modern Japan. Participated in organizations aimed at fostering philosophical thought.

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Aleksey Nikolayevich Tolstoy

Russian journalist and poet
Born
January 10th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1883, this individual was a prolific Russian journalist, author, and poet. Works spanned various genres, contributing significantly to literature throughout the early 20th century. Involved in the cultural and political life in Russia, produced notable pieces that reflected the historical context of the time. Engaged in journalism, writing for several prominent publications, and often focused on social issues and the struggles of ordinary people. His poetic works remain influential, showcasing a deep understanding of Russian identity and culture.

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Spencer Walklate

Rugby league player and soldier
Born
January 11th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 27 years old

An Australian rugby league player and soldier, had a notable career in the early to mid-20th century. Played for the St. George Dragons and was part of the team that won the 1941 NSWRL Premiership. His dual involvement in sports and military service characterized a significant period of his life during World War II. After serving, continued to contribute to the sport and community in various capacities.

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Alexander Stirling Calder

American sculptor and educator
Born
January 11th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 75 years old

An American sculptor and educator, contributions to the field of sculpture spanned several decades. Prominent works include the design of the statue of the 'Liberty Bell' and the 'Centaurs' in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. Served as a professor at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, helping to shape the next generation of artists. Additionally, worked on notable commissions for public monuments.

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Karl Künstler

German SS officer
Born
January 12th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 44 years old

Served as a high-ranking officer in the SS during World War II. Held the position of commandant at various concentration camps, overseeing operations and management. Involved in the implementation of Nazi policies that led to the persecution of numerous individuals. Engaged in administrative roles focused on the logistics of camp operations.

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Mary Helen Young

Scottish nurse and World War II resistance fighter
Born
June 5th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 62 years old

Born in Scotland, a nurse during World War II, provided critical support to those affected by the war. Engaged in resistance efforts against occupying forces, utilizing medical skills and knowledge to aid injured fighters and civilians. Worked alongside various groups to supply care and assistance under dangerous circumstances. After the war, continued contributions to nursing and healthcare in Scotland.

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