What Happened This Year 1955

People Who Died in 1955

John Mott

American activist and Nobel laureate
Born
May 25th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1955 70 years ago — 89 years old

An influential activist focused on youth and student movements. Mott served as the head of the World Student Christian Federation and played a critical role in establishing several international organizations aimed at promoting social responsibility among students. Mott was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1946 for efforts dedicated to fostering peace and understanding through education and religion. His work emphasized the importance of youth leadership in community development and international cooperation.

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Victor Houteff

Bulgarian religious reformer and author
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1955 70 years ago — 70 years old

A religious reformer authored significant writings on theology and prophecy. Founded the Davidian movement in the 1930s, which sought to promote his interpretations of biblical doctrines. Established the General Association of Davidian and the Mount Carmel Center in Waco, Texas, as a place for followers to gather and study. Advocated for a return to what was perceived as the original teachings of Christianity, emphasizing a need for reform within established churches.

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Paul Claudel

French poet and playwright
Born
August 6th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1955 70 years ago — 86 years old

A significant figure in French literature, contributed to both poetry and drama. Claudel's works often explored themes of faith and existentialism. His major plays, including 'Têtred'un fleuve' and 'L'Annonce faite à Marie', highlighted the conflict between belief and doubt. Claudel also produced a number of celebrated poems that reflected his Catholic beliefs and personal experiences. Throughout his career, he held various positions in the French diplomatic service, including serving as the French ambassador to the United States.

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Isak Penttala

Finnish politician, Member of Parliament
Born
February 8th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
February 28th, 1955 70 years ago — 72 years old

Served as a member of the Finnish Parliament, representing the Finnish People's Party. Engaged in political activities during a pivotal time in Finland's history, contributing to legislative discussions and national policy making. Played a role in the development of local governance and policies that shaped the region. His tenure highlighted the importance of representation for minority communities within the parliament.

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Antanas Merkys

Lithuanian Prime Minister and lawyer
Born
1888 137 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1955 70 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the 14th Prime Minister of Lithuania from 1926 to 1927, guiding the nation during a significant period. Contributed to the establishment of the Lithuanian state after World War I. Worked in law and had an active role in politics, influencing governance and legal frameworks in Lithuania. Engaged in various political initiatives aimed at strengthening statehood.

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Mammad Amin Rasulzade

Azerbaijani politician and scholar
Born
January 31st, 1884 141 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1955 70 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent Azerbaijani scholar and politician, contributed significantly to the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Azerbaijan. Adopted a nationalistic approach, emphasizing the importance of Azerbaijani culture and identity. As the first President, led the country during its early days of independence following the collapse of the Russian Empire. Engaged in political activities seeking to promote democratic governance and national sovereignty until the republic's dissolution in 1920.

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Miroslava Stern

Czech-Mexican actress in classic films
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1955 70 years ago — 30 years old

Born in Czechoslovakia and later became a prominent figure in Mexican cinema, this actress starred in a number of classic films during the 1940s and 1950s. Famous for roles in films such as 'The Curse of the Crying Woman' and 'La mujer que dijo no,' she gained recognition for both her acting and beauty. Her career was cut short by her untimely death in 1955, but her work continues to be celebrated in Mexico's film history.

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Alexander Fleming

Scottish biologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 6th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1955 70 years ago — 73 years old

A Scottish biologist, pharmacologist, and botanist, contributed significantly to the field of medicinal chemistry. Discovered penicillin in 1928, which paved the way for the development of antibiotics. His work transformed medical practice and saved countless lives. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945 alongside Howard Florey and Ernst Boris Chain for the discovery and development of penicillin. This discovery marked the beginning of modern antibiotics and has had enduring implications in medicine.

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Theodor Plievier

German author of anti-war literature
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1955 70 years ago — 63 years old

An influential author, wrote significant anti-war literature during the early to mid-20th century. The most recognized work is the novel 'Stalingrad', which depicted the brutal realities of war. His literature focused on the futility and devastation of conflict, reflecting the horrors faced during World War II. Plievier's works contributed to discussions on pacifism and the moral implications of warfare, gaining attention for their emotional depth and historical accuracy. His writings were driven by personal experiences and observations of the war's impact on humanity, sparking important conversations in the literary and historical arenas.

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