What Happened This Year 1945
People Who Died in 1945
Heinrich Wölfflin
A prominent figure in the field of art history, engaged in the analysis and classification of visual art. Developed a systematic approach to understanding the evolution of styles in Western art, particularly through the contrast of Renaissance and Baroque periods. Contributed significantly to the discourse surrounding aesthetics and visual perception. Served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Berlin and the University of Basel, influencing multiple generations of art historians.
Continue ReadingAlbert Jay Nock
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.
Continue ReadingJelena Dimitrijević
Born in 1862, a Serbian short story writer, novelist, poet, and social worker. Actively engaged in feminist movements and traveled extensively, promoting educational opportunities for women. Wrote works exploring themes of gender and societal roles in her time. Contributed significantly to the cultural heritage of Serbia through her literary endeavors and advocacy.
Continue ReadingMargot Frank
Born in Germany in 1926, a Jewish girl faced persecution during World War II. In 1933, fled to the Netherlands with the family to escape Nazi discrimination. In 1942, went into hiding in Amsterdam with the family to avoid deportation. This period was documented in a diary, providing insight into life in hiding. Arrested in 1944 and deported to Auschwitz and later to Bergen-Belsen, where she died in early 1945.
Continue ReadingLeif Tronstad
Contributed significantly to the development of chemical warfare during World War II. Led efforts in sabotage operations against German forces, particularly in Norway. Played a crucial role in the production of heavy water, a key component for nuclear reactors, by working on the Vemork hydroelectric plant sabotage. Actively participated in the Norwegian government in exile, advocating for effective resistance against Nazi occupation.
Continue ReadingViolette Szabo
Served as a secret agent in World War II, engaging in sabotage and reconnaissance missions in occupied France. Joined the Special Operations Executive (SOE) and completed multiple successful missions, including assisting the French Resistance. Captured in 1944, endured torture before being executed at the Ravensbrück concentration camp.
Continue ReadingWilliam Grover-Williams
A prominent racing driver, participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, achieving victory in 1939. Competed in numerous Grand Prix events during the late 1920s and 1930s, earning recognition for skill and precision behind the wheel. Also had a successful partnership with the Maserati team, showcasing exceptional talent in endurance racing. Aside from racing, played a role in World War II as a secret agent.
Continue ReadingAnne Frank
Born in Frankfurt, a Jewish girl moved to Amsterdam to escape Nazi persecution. During World War II, lived in hiding with her family in the secret annex of her father's office. Documented experiences in a diary, which later became a significant historical account of the Holocaust. The diary was published posthumously under the title 'The Diary of a Young Girl', gaining worldwide recognition and contributing to the understanding of the impact of war and discrimination on individual lives.
Continue ReadingFranz Schädle
Served as an SS officer during World War II. Held positions in various Nazi military units, contributing to the regime's efforts. Participated in operations that aligned with the organization's goals and ideology. Post-war actions and affiliations drew attention in historical accounts of the conflict and associated atrocities.
Continue Reading