What Happened This Year 1985

People Who Died in 1985

Birabongse Bhanudej

Thai racing driver and sailor, royal member
Born
July 15th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 71 years old

This individual served as a prominent racing driver and sailor, representing Thailand in various competitions. Born into the Thai royal family, significant achievements included competing in the Mille Miglia and participating in the 1950 Formula One season. Also engaged in sailing, he took part in numerous regattas and championships, showcasing skills on both land and water. The blend of royal lineage and dedication to motorsport marked a unique journey in athletics.

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Thelma Kench

Olympic sprinter representing New Zealand
Born
February 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 71 years old

Competed in track and field events, specializing in sprinting. Participated in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, achieving recognition for impressive performances in the women's 100 meters and 200 meters events. Set national records in New Zealand for sprint distances during her athletic career. Contributed to the popularity of athletics in New Zealand.

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Pauli Murray

Civil rights activist and lawyer
Born
November 20th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 75 years old

An influential civil rights activist, women's rights activist, and lawyer. Played a key role in formulating legal strategies against racial and gender discrimination. Contributed to the founding of the National Organization for Women. Served as the first African American woman ordained as an Episcopal priest. Authored several significant works, including 'Song in a Weary Throat,' a personal account of the civil rights struggle.

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Michel Audiard

French director and screenwriter
Born
May 15th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent director and screenwriter in French cinema, contributions spanned several decades. Focused primarily on the creation of dialogue-driven films, often featured themes of humor and social commentary. Collaborated with numerous actors and produced scripts that resonated with audiences. Achieved recognition for works that blended comedy and drama, leaving a lasting mark on French film.

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Johnny Mokan

Baseball player for St. Louis Cardinals
Born
September 23rd, 1895 129 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 90 years old

Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1919 to 1927. Mokan played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs. Accumulated a career batting average of .282 with 7 home runs and 214 runs batted in. Participated in the 1926 World Series, contributing to the Cardinals' championship victory.

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Germaine Krull

Photographer and political activist
Born
November 20th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 88 years old

Originated from Germany, this photographer contributed significantly to the field of photography, particularly in the 1920s and 1930s. Emphasizing a modernist approach, work included photojournalism and avant-garde techniques. A notable project involved documenting the lives of diverse social classes, reflecting social issues of the time. Additionally, engaged in political activism, actively promoting socialist ideas and defending workers' rights, particularly during turbulent periods in Germany. The dynamic works often captured the spirit of activism and the human condition, making a lasting imprint in the world of photography.

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Jack Gaughan

Illustrator of science fiction artworks
Born
September 24th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 55 years old

An American illustrator gained recognition for contributions to science fiction and fantasy art. Gaughan's career included numerous book covers and illustrations for notable authors such as Isaac Asimov and Roger Zelazny. His work featured prominently in magazines and art shows dedicated to speculative fiction. Gaughan's style combined traditional techniques with imaginative themes, appealing to a wide audience. In addition to illustrations, Gaughan contributed to the visual development of role-playing games and other media, influencing the visual landscape of the genre.

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Bruce R. McConkie

American colonel and religious leader
Born
July 29th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a colonel in the United States Army. Contributed significantly to religious scholarship within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Wrote extensively, with notable works including the book 'Mormon Doctrine,' which became a standard reference for church members. Held leadership positions that influenced church teachings and policies.

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Bruno de Finetti

Mathematician and statistician
Born
June 13th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1906, contributed significantly to probability theory and statistics. Developed the concept of subjective probability, which posited that probabilities are personal beliefs rather than objective truths. Worked on the foundations of Bayesian statistics, influencing later developments in statistical methodology. Authored several influential papers and books, including works on decision theory and statistical inference. Held academic positions in Italy and conducted research across various institutions.

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