What Happened This Year 1985

People Who Died in 1985

Eddie Taylor

Electric blues guitarist and singer
Born
January 29th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1923, a prominent figure in the electric blues genre. Life involved significant collaboration with blues artists and contributions to the Chicago blues scene. Recorded numerous albums and performed extensively, gaining recognition for a distinctive guitar style and songwriting. Influence spanned both on stage and in recordings, shaping the sound of modern blues. Continued to perform until later in life, leaving a lasting legacy on the musical landscape.

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Wellington Koo

Chinese statesman and diplomat
Born
January 29th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent Chinese statesman and diplomat, contributed significantly to international relations during the early 20th century. Served as China's ambassador to the United States and played a key role in the establishment of the Republic of China. Participated in the Paris Peace Conference in 1919, advocating for China's interests. Held various important government positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, and was involved in the founding of the United Nations.

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Harry Haywood

American soldier and politician
Born
February 6th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 87 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War I. Engaged in post-war political activities and became a prominent figure in the Communist Party. Contributed to various labor movements and advocated for civil rights and social justice. Conducted research and wrote extensively on African American history and socialism, emphasizing the struggle for equality and workers' rights.

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Basil Bunting

British poet and modernist writer
Born
March 1st, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1900, a British poet associated with modernist literature. Contributed to the literary scene through a unique style that blended imagery and musicality. Worked as a journalist and editor, influencing contemporary poetry. His most acclaimed work, 'Briggflatts,' published in 1966, is considered a significant achievement in 20th-century poetry, showcasing complexity and depth. During his life, he engaged with literary movements and communities, greatly impacting the poetic landscape.

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John Scarne

Magician and author of card tricks
Born
March 4th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent magician and author, contributions included a vast array of literature focused on card tricks and gambling. Scarne's expertise in card manipulation and magic tricks earned the respect of both the magic community and the general public. He published several influential books, including 'Scarne on Card Tricks' and 'Scarne's New Complete Guide to Gambling.' Scarne's work not only entertained audiences but also educated aspiring magicians on the art of sleight of hand and the psychology of gambling.

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Ana Mendieta

Cuban-American sculptor and performance artist
Born
November 18th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 37 years old

Born in Cuba, the artist relocated to the United States as a child. Through a unique blend of sculpture, painting, and performance, created a body of work that explored themes of feminism, identity, and the relationship with nature. Many works involved earth art and body-based performance, often using the landscape to convey personal and cultural narratives. Her 'Silueta' series, which included the creation of silhouettes using natural materials, is particularly recognized. The artist's life was tragically cut short in 1985, leaving behind a significant legacy in contemporary art.

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Dorothy Tangney

Australian politician and senator
Born
March 13th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 78 years old

Served as a senator for Western Australia from 1943 to 1964. Represented the Australian Labor Party and was the first woman elected to the Senate. Advocated for women's rights and gender equality in various political and public forums. Worked on issues concerning social justice, education, and public health, contributing to significant legislative reforms during the post-war period.

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Don Raye

American songwriter, composer of classics
Born
March 16th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent American songwriter and composer, contributed significantly to the music industry during the 20th century. Collaborated with various artists, creating timeless songs that found popularity in both music and film. Worked with iconic performers, bringing several hits to the top of the charts. His contributions spanned multiple genres, notably in the realm of popular and jazz music, helping to shape the landscape of American song.

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Gabriel Elorde

Filipino professional boxer, world champion
Born
March 25th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent Filipino professional boxer, achieved significant recognition in the sport during the 1960s. Notable for holding the World Junior Lightweight Championship for seven years, from 1960 to 1967. Competed against and defeated several international opponents, contributing to the popularity of boxing in the Philippines. Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1993, reflecting a successful career marked by numerous victories and titles.

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