What Happened This Year 1955

People Who Died in 1955

Charlie Parker

Saxophonist and composer, bebop pioneer
Born
October 14th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1955 70 years ago — 72 years old

An American saxophonist and composer revolutionized jazz music through the development of the bebop style. Demonstrated exceptional technical skill and innovative improvisation techniques, influencing countless musicians. Collaborated with prominent artists and recorded essential tracks that showcased new approaches to rhythm and harmony. Major works include 'Ornithology' and 'Ko-Ko,' which exemplify the bebop movement.

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Ivan Šubašić

Croatian politician, Prime Minister of Yugoslavia
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1955 69 years ago — 63 years old

Served as the 23rd Prime Minister of Yugoslavia during a critical period after World War II. His tenure highlighted efforts to navigate post-war governance and maintain stability within the newly reformed state. Engaged in the political restructuring of the country, focusing on rebuilding the economy and promoting collaboration among diverse political factions. Participated in negotiations to solidify alliances with allied powers, particularly during the transitional phase of Yugoslavia's post-war politics. Contributed significantly to the legal and political framework of Croatia and Yugoslavia, reflecting the complexities of governance in a multi-ethnic society.

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Artur Bernardes

Brazilian politician, 12th President
Born
August 8th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1955 69 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the 12th President of Brazil from 1922 to 1926. Focused on economic recovery and attempted to stabilize the country during a period of political turmoil. Implemented policies that aimed at modernization and infrastructure development. His presidency was marked by efforts to consolidate power and manage regional conflicts. Promoted industrialization and education to strengthen the nation's economy.

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Tibor Szele

Hungarian mathematician and scholar
Born
June 21st, 1918 106 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1955 69 years ago — 36 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and set theory. Worked extensively on combinatorial set theory and made advances in the axiomatic foundations of mathematics. Published numerous papers, influencing mathematical research and education in Hungary. Also served as a professor, guiding students in advanced mathematical concepts.

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Theda Bara

Silent film actress and vamp archetype
Born
July 29th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1955 69 years ago — 69 years old

An actress in the early years of cinema, gained fame during the silent film era for portraying seductive and glamorous characters. Achieved stardom through iconic roles in films such as 'A Fool There Was' and 'Cleopatra'. Became a cultural phenomenon, representing the archetype of the vampire femme fatale, captivating audiences with dramatic performances. After a successful career, transitioned out of the spotlight in the 1920s with the advent of sound in film. Continued to influence the portrayal of women in cinema until passing away in 1955.

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Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

French priest and philosopher of evolution
Born
May 1st, 1881 143 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1955 69 years ago — 73 years old

A French priest, theologian, and philosopher, contributed to the field of paleontology while integrating religious beliefs with scientific thought. Worked as a Jesuit and developed ideas around the evolution of consciousness and spirituality. Wrote influential works, including 'The Phenomenon of Man' and 'The Divine Milieu', which reflect the synthesis of faith and science. Engaged in significant paleontological expeditions, particularly in China, where discoveries included the remains of Peking Man.

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David Kirkwood

Scottish engineer and politician, worked on labor rights
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1955 69 years ago — 83 years old

An engineer and politician from Scotland, contributed significantly to labor rights and social reforms in the early 20th century. Served as a Member of Parliament, advocating for workers' welfare and social justice. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of labor laws that improved working conditions for many. His efforts in Parliament led to the introduction of important legislation aimed at protecting workers' rights and supporting labor movements.

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Albert Einstein

Theoretical physicist, Nobel laureate
Born
March 14th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1955 69 years ago — 76 years old

A theoretical physicist and academic, his work revolutionized the understanding of space, time, and energy. Formulated the theory of relativity, which reshaped modern physics. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921 for the explanation of the photoelectric effect. Contributed to the development of quantum mechanics and made significant advancements in theoretical physics.

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Jim Corbett

British-Indian hunter and author
Born
July 25th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1955 69 years ago — 79 years old

A British-Indian colonel, hunter, and author, conducted numerous hunts in India, focusing on man-eating tigers. Authored works such as 'The Man-Eating Leopard of Rudraprayag' and 'Man-Eaters of Kumaon', which detailed encounters with wildlife and wildlife conservation. His experiences in the wilderness were instrumental in establishing the country's first national parks.

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