What Happened This Year 1995

People Who Died in 1995

Alonzo Church

Mathematician and logician; Church-Turing Thesis
Born
June 14th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent mathematician and logician contributed significantly to the fields of mathematical logic and theoretical computer science. Introduced the concept of lambda calculus, which became foundational for functional programming. Developed the Church-Turing Thesis, proposing that any effectively calculable function can be computed by a Turing machine, laying important groundwork for modern computer science. Worked on recursive functions and demonstrated the undecidability of the Entscheidungsproblem. Served as a professor at Princeton University and held various prestigious academic positions.

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Evelyn Wood

Author and educator of speed reading
Born
January 8th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 86 years old

A significant contributor to the field of speed reading, this individual developed a technique for reading that aimed to increase reading efficiency. Founded the Evelyn Wood Reading Dynamics program, which trained thousands of individuals in speed reading methods. Authored several books addressing reading and comprehension, including 'Evelyn Wood's Reading Dynamics'. Delivered workshops and seminars across the United States, promoting reading as a skill and offering courses in both educational and corporate settings.

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Derek Meddings

Special effects designer for Bond films
Born
January 15th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 64 years old

An influential British special effects designer contributed to the visual effects in several iconic films. Worked extensively in the film industry, especially noted for contributions to the James Bond series. Pioneered techniques in miniatures and practical effects during the 1960s and 1970s. Collaborated on projects that showcased advancements in special effects technology, setting high standards for future productions.

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Jean-Luc Pépin

Canadian politician and Minister of Labour
Born
November 1st, 1924 100 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 71 years old

An academic and politician, served as the 19th Canadian Minister of Labour from 1963 to 1968. Contributed to various labor reforms during tenure. Held significant positions within the Liberal Party and participated in the legislative process to address labor issues. Engaged in broader public service beyond the ministerial role.

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John H. Adams

American jockey with Derby achievements
Born
September 1st, 1914 110 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 81 years old

Achieved notable success in horse racing, particularly in thoroughbred racing events. Secured victories in multiple prestigious races, showcasing exceptional riding skills and deep knowledge of race strategy. Notably competed in the Kentucky Derby, one of the most significant horse races in the United States. Recognition in the racing community stemmed from a series of wins that underscored expertise and determination.

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Alexander Knox

Actor and screenwriter in film classics
Born
January 16th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Canada and later moving to England, a career spanned several decades in film and television. Achievements included playing Franklin D. Roosevelt in 'The Last Hurrah' and had significant roles in 'The Prisoner of Zenda' and 'The Tillman Story'. Contributed as a screenwriter as well, showcasing versatility in storytelling across different mediums.

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Annie Fischer

Hungarian pianist with international acclaim
Born
July 5th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Hungary, this pianist and composer gained recognition for exceptional performances and interpretations of classical repertoire. Renowned for skillful renditions of works by composers like Beethoven, Chopin, and Liszt, collaborations with prestigious orchestras occurred throughout a distinguished career. Received widespread acclaim for recordings and concerts across Europe and the United States, establishing a significant presence in the classical music scene.

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Art Kane

Photographer of 'A Great Day in Harlem'
Born
April 9th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 70 years old

An American photographer, Kane gained recognition for his work in the field of photography, particularly for the iconic image 'A Great Day in Harlem,' capturing a historic gathering of jazz musicians in 1958. This photograph featured 57 notable artists, becoming one of the most famous images in jazz history. Kane's work extended beyond just jazz and included portrait photography for various magazines. His style often blended elements of candid photography and staged compositions. Throughout his career, Kane contributed to the visual documentation of cultural movements, telling stories through his lens that resonated with audiences and music enthusiasts alike.

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Lola Flores

Spanish singer, dancer, actress
Born
January 21st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1923 in Jerez de la Frontera, a prominent figure in Spanish entertainment emerged as a singer, dancer, and actress. Debuted in the 1940s, combining music and flamenco dance, captivating audiences with performances that celebrated Spanish culture. Achieved widespread fame with songs like 'La Bamba' and starred in various films, including 'La mujer que se perdió'. Contributed significantly to the popularization of flamenco music and dance, influencing subsequent generations of performers.

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