What Happened This Year 1955

People Who Died in 1955

Alfréd Hajós

Hungarian swimmer and architect
Born
February 1st, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1955 70 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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Len Braund

Cricketer, coach, and umpire
Born
October 18th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 80 years old

Played first-class cricket primarily for Somerset between 1895 and 1920. Achieved a notable record as an all-rounder, contributing both as a batsman and bowler. After retiring from playing, transitioned into coaching and served as a cricket umpire. Umpired in several notable matches in county cricket, influencing the sport's officiating standards.

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Izaak Killam

Financier and philanthropist of Canada
Born
July 23rd, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 70 years old

Significant contributions to Canadian finance and philanthropy marked a prominent career. Founded the Killam Trusts, which provided substantial funding for scholarships and research across Canadian universities. Established the Izaak Walton Killam Hospital for Children in Halifax, contributing to healthcare advancements. Active in various business ventures that included banking and real estate.

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D. V. Paluskar

Hindustani classical musician and educator
Born
May 28th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 34 years old

Born in 1921 in India, this individual made significant contributions to Hindustani classical music as both a performer and an educator. Training under prominent masters, developed a distinctive style and played a crucial role in the revival of the Gwalior gharana. This musician founded a school dedicated to music education, nurturing numerous students over the years. Continually emphasized the importance of traditional forms while incorporating modern elements into performances.

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Oswald Avery

Microbiologist who discovered DNA's role
Born
October 21st, 1877 147 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 78 years old

A physician and microbiologist contributed to the understanding of genetics. Conducted groundbreaking experiments in the early 20th century that demonstrated that DNA is the material of heredity. This work laid the foundation for future research in molecular biology and genetics, impacting the fields of medicine and research significantly. Published numerous scientific papers and collaborated with other notable scientists to advance knowledge in microbiology.

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Luis Otero

Spanish footballer and sportscaster
Born
October 22nd, 1893 131 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 62 years old

A Spanish footballer played primarily as a forward during the early 20th century. His career included playing for teams such as Racing Santander and FC Barcelona. Otero contributed to several seasons in La Liga, gaining recognition within the sport. After retiring from professional play, transitioned into sportscasting, providing commentary for football matches and engaging with fans through media.

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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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