What Happened This Year 1955

People Who Died in 1955

Honus Wagner

Baseball player and coach with a strong legacy
Born
February 24th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1955 69 years ago — 81 years old

A professional baseball player, coach, and manager, made significant contributions to the sport in the early 20th century. Played primarily for the Pittsburgh Pirates during a career spanning from 1897 to 1917. Recognized as one of the greatest shortstops in baseball history, dominated the field with exceptional hitting and defensive skills. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936 as part of its inaugural class. Played a crucial role in leading the Pirates to multiple National League championships.

Continue Reading

Egas Moniz

Portuguese neurologist, Nobel laureate
Born
November 29th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1955 69 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent Portuguese physician and neurologist, this individual significantly advanced the field of neuropsychology. Contributions included the development of cerebral angiography and the introduction of lobotomy as a treatment for severe mental disorders. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1949 for pioneering these techniques. The work focused on understanding the brain's functions and exploring innovative treatment methods for psychiatric conditions.

Continue Reading

Alfred Carpenter

Admiral, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
September 17th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1955 69 years ago — 74 years old

An English admiral served in the Royal Navy during significant conflicts. Played a crucial role in World War I and demonstrated exceptional bravery, leading to the receipt of the Victoria Cross for valiant actions in battle. Carpenter's military service included commanding various vessels and participating in strategic operations that were pivotal to naval engagements. Contributions to naval tactics and leadership during wartime bolstered the effectiveness of the Royal Navy.

Continue Reading

Rex Ingamells

Australian author and poet
Born
January 19th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1955 69 years ago — 42 years old

Rex Ingamells was an Australian author and poet who contributed significantly to Australian literature. A member of the Melbourne-based literary community, he focused on themes relevant to Australian identity and landscapes. Ingamells published several poetry collections and essays that illustrated his connection to the natural world. His works often reflected on the complexities of life and the human experience in Australia. He was also involved in promoting Australian literature through various initiatives and organizations, advocating for the recognition of Australian writers.

Continue Reading

Herbert Putnam

8th Librarian of Congress
Born
September 20th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 94 years old

Served as Librarian of Congress from 1899 to 1939, overseeing the expansion of the library's collections and services. Implemented initiatives that modernized and professionalized the institution. Advocated for the preservation of American literature and the development of library services across the nation. Promoted the use of technology in libraries, leading to the adoption of new cataloging systems.

Continue Reading

Nat Schachner

American lawyer and chemist, author
Born
January 16th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 60 years old

Schachner was an American lawyer and chemist who contributed to the field of chemistry and authored several works. His legal expertise and background in chemistry led to a focus on patent law, particularly regarding chemical inventions. Schachner's writings included both professional legal texts and science fiction literature, reflecting a unique blend of his interests and skills. He became involved in the American Chemical Society and engaged with various scientific communities, rising prominently in those circles.

Continue Reading

Dimitrie Gusti

Romanian sociologist and historian
Born
February 13th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 75 years old

A significant figure in Romanian sociology and ethnology, contributed to the understanding of rural society through empirical research. Established the first Romanian sociological school, fostering development in social sciences. Developed the method of 'socio-cultural research', which aimed to connect theory with practical analysis of Romanian rural communities. Served as a professor at the University of Bucharest and held influential roles in cultural institutions. Authored multiple works on sociology and ethnology, providing critical insights into Romanian culture and society.

Continue Reading

Mihály Károlyi

Hungarian politician, President of Hungary
Born
March 4th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 80 years old

A Hungarian politician who served as the first President of the Hungarian Republic after World War I. Played a central role in the establishment of a democratic government following the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Advocated for social reforms and the rights of workers, while facing significant internal and external challenges. Negotiated the Treaty of Trianon, which significantly reduced Hungary's territory and population. Resigned in 1919 amid political turmoil and was forced into exile until returning in later years.

Continue Reading

Fernand Léger

Painter and sculptor of modern art
Born
February 4th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 74 years old

A pioneering figure in modern art, this artist developed a unique visual language characterized by bold colors and geometric forms. Emerging as part of the Cubist movement, the works created often explored the interplay between industrialization and the human experience. Notable contributions included the use of mechanical objects and the incorporation of vivid colors to depict modern life. The artist founded a style that blended abstraction with representational elements, influencing subsequent generations of artists. The artist's works have been exhibited widely and remain significant in art history.

Continue Reading