What Happened This Year 1985

People Who Died in 1985

Gale Sondergaard

Danish-American actress, Oscar winner
Born
February 15th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1985 39 years ago — 86 years old

An actress noted for her work in film and theater, this individual gained prominence in the early 20th century. She earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the role in 'Anthony Adverse' (1936). Throughout her career, she portrayed a range of characters across different genres, often cast in roles that highlighted her distinctive style. She was one of the first actresses to receive an Academy Award, paving the way for future generations in the industry. Additionally, she featured in several notable productions on Broadway, showcasing her talents beyond the silver screen.

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Donald O. Hebb

Canadian psychologist and academic
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1985 39 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of psychology and neuroscience. Developed the theory of Hebbian learning, which describes how neuronal pathways strengthen through repeated activation. Worked at McGill University, where served as a professor and director of the psychology department. Authored influential publications, including 'The Organization of Behavior' in 1949, which is considered a foundational work in neuropsychology. Advocated for the integration of psychology and biological science.

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Charles Gibson

Television journalist and news anchor
Born
March 9th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1985 39 years ago — 42 years old

A prominent television journalist, served as the anchor of ABC's 'World News' from 2006 to 2011. Previously anchored 'Good Morning America' for over two decades, contributing significantly to morning news programming. Known for conducting high-profile interviews and moderating presidential debates.

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Paul Creston

Composer and educator of American music
Born
October 10th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1985 39 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1906, a prominent American composer and educator, contributed significantly to 20th-century music. Studied at the American Conservatory and later taught at several institutions, influencing future generations of musicians. Creston's works include orchestral, chamber, and vocal compositions, known for their rhythmic vitality and rich harmonies. Emphasized the importance of melody and utilized various musical forms, creating a diverse repertoire. His music often reflects a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, which garnered attention during his lifetime.

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Ruth Gordon

Actress and screenwriter of 'Harold and Maude'
Born
October 30th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1985 39 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1896, this individual began a career in theater and transitioned to film, establishing a notable presence in Hollywood. Achieving success as both an actress and a screenwriter, this person gained significant recognition for work in the acclaimed film 'Harold and Maude.' The career spanned several decades, making contributions to various productions and receiving multiple accolades for performances, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. The involvement in film and theater left a lasting legacy.

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Evelyn Ankers

Actress in classic horror films
Born
August 17th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1985 39 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1918, an actress who gained prominence during the 1940s. Best recognized for performances in classic horror films, particularly collaborations with Universal Pictures. Featured in numerous films including 'The Wolf Man' and 'The Ghost of Frankenstein'. Transitioned to television in the later years of her career.

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Taylor Caldwell

Author of historical and psychological novels
Born
September 7th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1985 39 years ago — 84 years old

An English-American author, primarily recognized for historical and psychological novels, gained prominence in the mid-20th century. Wrote numerous bestsellers during a prolific career, which included works such as 'Dynasty of Death' and 'Captains and the Kings'. Caldwell's writing often explored themes of power, morality, and the human experience, appealing to a wide audience and receiving critical acclaim. The author produced over 30 novels, contributing significantly to the literary landscape of her time. Additionally, her writings were adapted for television and film, expanding her reach beyond literature.

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Frank Macfarlane Burnet

Virologist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
September 3rd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1985 39 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent virologist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of immunology. Developed the concept of immunological tolerance and studied the behavior of viruses. Served as a professor at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and became an influential figure in the study of viral diseases. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1960 for discoveries related to cell-mediated immunity.

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Stefan Bellof

Race car driver and Porsche competitor
Born
November 20th, 1957 67 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1985 39 years ago — 27 years old

Gained prominence in motorsport during the 1980s, primarily as a driver for Porsche in endurance racing. Achieved notable success in the World Endurance Championship, winning the title in 1984. Set a record at the 1983 24 Hours of Le Mans with a race pace that still remains impressive. Competed in Formula One for the Tyrrell team, showing potential despite limited opportunities. Tragically passed away in a racing accident in 1985 at the age of 27, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of motorsport.

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