What Happened This Year 1955

People Who Died in 1955

Alfréd Hajós

Hungarian swimmer and architect
Born
February 1st, 1878 148 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 77 years old

Swimmer and architect contributed significantly to both fields. In swimming, achieved success as the first Olympic champion in swimming, winning two gold medals at the 1896 Summer Olympics in Athens. As an architect, designed notable buildings including the Grand Hotel Aranybika, showcasing a blend of historic and modern architectural styles. Hajós's dual career exemplified excellence in both sports and architectural design.

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William Orthwein

American swimmer and water polo player
Born
October 16th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 74 years old

Competed in swimming and water polo during the early 20th century. Achieved significant success in both sports, particularly at the national level. Excelled in the 1904 Summer Olympics, participating in swimming events and contributing to the water polo team's performance. Played a pivotal role in the development of competitive swimming and water polo in the United States.

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Émile Fabre

French author and playwright
Born
March 24th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1869, this individual contributed significantly to French literature as an author and playwright. The works often explored various themes and human emotions. Alongside writing, this person engaged in theatrical production, which provided a platform for many of the plays. The individual’s efforts in both the literary and theatrical realms left a mark on the French cultural landscape.

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Dominikus Böhm

Architect, St. Maria im Kapitol
Born
October 23rd, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 75 years old

An architect of the 20th century focused on sacred architecture. Contributed significantly to the expressionist movement in architecture. Designed the notable church St. Maria im Kapitol in Cologne, characterized by its unique style and use of materials. Advocated for modernism while respecting historical contexts. Further explored the integration of light and space in religious buildings.

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Elena Alistar

Bessarabian politician and activist
Born
June 1st, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 82 years old

Active in the early 20th century, served as a prominent politician in Bessarabia. Advocated for women's rights and participated in the political movements of the time. Worked towards the unification of Bessarabia with Romania, contributing to discussions during pivotal moments in regional politics. Engaged in various social and cultural initiatives aimed at improving the status of women in society.

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Carlos Dávila

Chilean journalist and politician, President
Born
September 15th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 68 years old

Served as President of Chile from 1941 to 1942. Previously worked as a journalist and editor, contributing to various Chilean publications. Involved in political movements throughout the 20th century and played a significant role in Chilean politics. Advocated for several reforms during his presidency, although his term was marked by political challenges.

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František Janda-Suk

Czech discus thrower and shot putter
Born
March 25th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1878, a prominent athlete in track and field, focusing primarily on discus and shot put events. Competed in various championships during the early 20th century, representing Czechoslovakia. Achieved notable success at the European Athletics Championships, securing medals in both the discus throw and shot put disciplines. Participation in the 1900 Summer Olympics marked a significant milestone, showcasing skill and technique in front of an international audience.

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Ham Fisher

American cartoonist of Joe Palooka
Born
September 24th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 55 years old

An American cartoonist contributed significantly to the comic strip medium with the creation of the character Joe Palooka. The comic strip debuted in 1921 and became widely recognized for its depiction of a heavyweight boxing champion. It was notable for addressing various social issues while entertaining audiences. Fisher's work on Joe Palooka spanned several decades, becoming a staple in American newspapers. The character gained enough popularity to inspire films in the 1930s and 1940s, further solidifying Fisher's legacy in the comic industry.

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Kate Booth

Salvation Army officer, advocate for social reform
Born
September 18th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 97 years old

Born in 1858, a prominent officer in the Salvation Army, dedicated to social reform and helping the marginalized. Actively engaged in fundraising efforts and established numerous initiatives to assist the poor and destitute. Contributed to the expansion of the Salvation Army's work in various communities, emphasizing the importance of faith in action. Played a significant role in advocating for women's rights within the organization, striving to enhance the status of women in society.

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