What Happened This Year 1955

People Who Died in 1955

Dominikus Böhm

Architect, St. Maria im Kapitol
Born
October 23rd, 1880 144 years ago
Died
1955 70 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 70 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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Ham Fisher

American cartoonist of Joe Palooka
Born
September 24th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1955 70 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 166 years ago
Died
1955 70 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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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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