What Happened This Year 1985

People Who Died in 1985

Georgia Hale

Silent film actress and investor
Born
June 25th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 85 years old

Started a career in film during the silent era, appearing in several notable projects. Gained recognition for the role in the 1927 film 'The Jazz Singer', which was pivotal in the transition to sound in cinema. Transitioned to a successful career in real estate investment after her film career waned, displaying a keen business acumen.

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Robert Fitzgerald

American poet and translator of classics
Born
October 12th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed significantly to American literature as a poet and translator. Worked extensively on translating classical works, particularly the translations of Greek and Latin poetry. Served as a professor and engaged in literary criticism. His translations of Virgil's 'The Aeneid' and Homer's 'The Odyssey' are especially noted for their accessibility and lyrical quality.

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Claire Cribbs

Basketball player and coach
Born
August 13th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 73 years old

Played basketball at the collegiate level and achieved success as a coach after transitioning from playing. Contributed significantly to the growth of basketball programs, particularly in women's sports during the mid-20th century. Worked to develop young athletes and provided mentorship in the sport.

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Cooney Weiland

Ice hockey player and coach, NHL
Born
November 5th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1904, a Canadian ice hockey player and coach. Competed in the NHL during the 1920s and 1930s. Played primarily as a left winger. Represented the New York Rangers, Detroit Red Wings, and the Chicago Black Hawks during his playing career. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of future players.

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George Pólya

Mathematician known for problem solving
Born
December 13th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 98 years old

A mathematician and educator, this individual contributed significantly to mathematical analysis, number theory, and applied mathematics. Developed the Pólya Enumeration Theorem and made influential strides in problem-solving methods. Authored several important works, including 'How to Solve It', which provides strategies for solving mathematical problems. Held positions at several educational institutions, including Stanford University, where contributions to mathematics education and teaching methods were notable.

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Sir Ken Anderson

Australian politician and statesman
Born
October 11th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent Australian politician, contributed significantly to the governance of Queensland during the mid-20th century. Held the position of Minister for Transport and Minister for Works, overseeing critical infrastructure projects. Played a crucial role in the development of the state, notably during the post-war period. Engaged in various policy initiatives aimed at improving transportation networks and public works, influencing regional development. Served as a member of the Legislative Assembly for many years, advocating for his constituents and pushing forward legislative agendas.

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Max Zaslofsky

Basketball player and coach
Born
December 7th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 60 years old

Played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1946 to 1955, representing teams such as the New York Knicks and Chicago Stags. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, including a tenure with the Chicago Zephyrs. Contributed to the development of basketball during the early years of the league and was recognized for exceptional shooting ability.

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Harry Hopman

Tennis player and renowned coach
Born
August 12th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Australia in 1906, an accomplished tennis player and coach contributed significantly to the sport. Achieved significant success as a player, winning multiple national championships during the 1920s and 1930s. Transitioned to coaching and led the Australian Davis Cup team to numerous victories. Founded the Hopman Cup, an important mixed team tennis competition held in Australia, and coached several top-ranked players, including Rod Laver and Margaret Court, to grand slam titles.

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C. Suntharalingam

Sri Lankan lawyer and politician
Born
August 19th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Sri Lanka in 1895, a prominent lawyer and academic, played a significant role in the political landscape of the country. Served as a member of the Sri Lankan parliament and contributed to the development of legal and educational frameworks. Engaged in issues pertaining to civil rights and the legal profession, influencing policy and legislation. Contributed to various academic discussions and played an integral part in shaping the legal education in Sri Lanka.

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