What Happened This Year 1985
People Who Died in 1985
Abe Lenstra
Played as a forward primarily for Heerenveen in the Netherlands. Contributed significantly to Dutch football from the late 1940s to the early 1960s. Competed in the 1954 FIFA World Cup. Also represented the Dutch national team, earning recognition for exceptional skill and sportsmanship. Post-retirement, became involved in football administration and coaching, influencing the next generation of players.
Continue ReadingJay Youngblood
Professional wrestling career spanned the 1970s and early 1980s. Competed in various wrestling promotions including the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and World Wrestling Federation (WWF). Often teamed with his brother, featuring in tag team competitions. Achieved notable recognition for his work in the ring, particularly in the NWA. Tragically passed away at a young age, marking the end of a promising career.
Continue ReadingV. Dharmalingam
A prominent Sri Lankan Tamil politician, played a significant role in the political landscape of Sri Lanka. Served as a member of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, advocating for the rights of the Tamil community during a turbulent period in the country's history. Involved in various political movements and efforts aimed at addressing the grievances faced by Tamils. Contributed to the formation of political strategies and alliances that would shape Tamil political activism.
Continue ReadingJohnny Marks
Born in 1909, this songwriter gained prominence for creating some of the most enduring holiday classics. His compositions have become staples of the festive season, often celebrated for their catchy melodies and heartwarming lyrics. Notably, the song 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer' emerged as a beloved Christmas hit, solidifying his place in American music culture. In addition to holiday tunes, many of his works have been featured in various media, further cementing their fame.
Continue ReadingVasyl Stus
A notable Ukrainian poet, publicist, and dissident who faced persecution for opposition to Soviet policies. Stus wrote poetry that addressed themes of freedom, identity, and national consciousness. Arrested multiple times for his activism, he spent many years in labor camps, where he continued to write despite harsh conditions. His works gained prominence posthumously, reflecting his unwavering commitment to Ukrainian culture and human rights.
Continue ReadingGeorge O'Brien
An American actor played leading roles in silent films and early talkies. Gained prominence in the 1920s and 1930s, particularly in Westerns. Notable films include 'The Iron Horse' and 'Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans', the latter winning an Academy Award for Best Unique and Artistic Picture. Transitioned to sound films successfully, showcasing versatility in various genres.
Continue ReadingFranco Ferrara
Renowned for contributions to conducting and composition, significant influence observed in the 20th century classical music scene. Held the position of principal conductor for the Santa Cecilia Orchestra in Rome. Collaborated with prominent orchestras and opera companies across Europe and the Americas. Composed works that contributed to the classical repertoire.
Continue ReadingJacoba van Velde
An author who contributed significantly to Dutch literature, with a focus on personal and societal themes. Van Velde wrote several notable works during her career. The writing style often combined elements of realism with evocative character studies. In addition to literary fiction, engaged in writing essays that explored cultural and social issues of her time. The works featured an introspective approach to the complexities of human relationships and societal norms. Recognition in literary circles followed, underscoring her contributions to Dutch culture.
Continue ReadingJohn Franklin Enders
An American virologist and academic contributed significantly to the study of viruses. His research led to the development of techniques to culture viruses in human tissue, which was instrumental in the development of vaccines. Enders, along with his colleagues, isolated the poliovirus and developed a vaccine against it. This work laid the groundwork for subsequent advances in virus research and vaccine development. For the groundbreaking contributions to the field of virology, he received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1954.
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