What Happened This Year 1985

People Who Died in 1985

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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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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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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Anton Karas

Austrian zither player and composer
Born
July 7th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Austria, a zither player and composer gained prominence with the score for the film 'The Third Man' in 1949. The haunting theme became iconic, defining the sound of post-war Vienna. Karas's work in the film showcased the zither's unique sound and inspired a resurgence of interest in the instrument. Later, he performed internationally, contributing to the appreciation of Austrian folk music through his compositions and performances. His music influenced various artists and continues to be celebrated.

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Georges-Émile Lapalme

Canadian lawyer and politician
Born
January 14th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 78 years old

A Canadian lawyer and politician who served as a member of the National Assembly of Quebec. Played a significant role in the development of the Quebec Liberal Party, holding various cabinet positions. Contributed to legal reforms and was involved in numerous political campaigns, advocating for progressive policies in Quebec.

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Carlos P. Romulo

Filipino politician and soldier
Born
January 14th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent Filipino soldier and politician who served as the President of the United Nations General Assembly from 1949 to 1950. His career spanned various roles, including serving as the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines and as the Philippine Ambassador to the United States. Romulo was involved in the establishment of the United Nations and its early operations, advocating for the Philippines' interests on the international stage. He was instrumental in post-World War II diplomacy and participated in peace negotiations. His writings on history and political science also contributed to Filipino literature and thought.

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Harald Cramér

Swedish mathematician and statistician
Born
September 25th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of probability theory and statistics. Developed the Cramér-Rao bound, a fundamental concept in estimation theory. Cramér also worked on the theory of statistical methods and played a crucial role in advancing the application of mathematical statistics. His work included contributions to stochastic processes and limit theorems, including the Cramér-Wold theorem. In addition, he authored several influential textbooks that have been widely used in the study of probability and statistics.

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Irving Mills

American publisher of jazz music
Born
January 16th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 91 years old

A major figure in the development of the jazz music industry in the early 20th century, significantly contributed to the promotion of jazz through publishing and record production. Founded the Mills Music Company in 1918, which became a key player in music publishing. Worked with notable jazz artists and played an essential role in the careers of several prominent musicians by providing them with platforms to share their music. His strategies helped shape the commercial landscape of jazz, making it more accessible to the broader public.

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Cus D'Amato

Boxing manager and trainer of champions
Born
January 17th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 77 years old

An influential boxing manager and trainer, had a significant role in shaping the careers of several world champions. In the 1980s, trained Mike Tyson, who became the youngest heavyweight champion in history at age 20. D'Amato also managed Floyd Patterson, a two-time heavyweight champion. His training philosophy emphasized psychological and emotional preparation as much as physical training, focusing on the mental fortitude of athletes. Founded the Cus D'Amato Boxing Club, which produced numerous successful fighters. D'Amato's techniques and strategies in the ring set a standard that influenced generations of boxers and coaches.

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