What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Earl Wilson

Baseball pitcher for the Detroit Tigers
Born
October 2nd, 1934 90 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2005 19 years ago — 70 years old

Played Major League Baseball primarily as a pitcher from 1953 to 1967. Began career with the Detroit Tigers and later played for the Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, and Chicago Cubs. Achieved prominence in the 1960s as the first Black pitcher to start a game for the Tigers. Member of the Red Sox in the 1967 season, contributing to their pennant-winning team. Accumulated success in his career, including a notable season with a win-loss record of 22-10 in 1966.

Continue Reading

Joh Bjelke-Petersen

31st Premier of Queensland, Australia
Born
January 13th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2005 19 years ago — 94 years old

A politician and farmer, served as the 31st Premier of Queensland from 1968 to 1987. Led the Country Party, focusing on rural and infrastructure development. Increased economic growth in Queensland through various initiatives. Implemented policies that shaped the political landscape during his tenure, emphasizing agricultural interests and a strong economy.

Continue Reading

Romano Scarpa

Italian author and illustrator of comics
Born
September 27th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2005 19 years ago — 77 years old

An Italian author and illustrator contributed significantly to the world of comics, especially through work with Disney characters. Created iconic stories featuring Donald Duck and other classic Disney personas, often collaborated with notable artists on comic strips. Worked primarily for the Italian comic book industry, noted for unique storytelling and distinctive art style. Received recognition for contributions to children's literature and comic art, inspiring future generations of illustrators.

Continue Reading

John Mills

Cricketer, New Zealand Test player
Born
September 3rd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2005 19 years ago — 99 years old

Debuted in international cricket for New Zealand in 1930. Played as a right-handed batsman and a bowler during his career. Participated in multiple Test matches, contributing significantly to the team's efforts. His ability to perform under pressure established a reputation within the sport, leading to a lasting legacy for New Zealand cricket.

Continue Reading

Fei Xiaotong

Chinese sociologist and academic
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
April 24th, 2005 19 years ago — 95 years old

Renowned as a pioneering Chinese sociologist, contributed to the understanding of social issues in China and rural society. Involved in the establishment of sociology as an academic discipline in China. Played a significant role in the study of rural development and social changes, promoting the importance of social research in policy formulation. Served as a professor at several universities and was a member of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. Published extensively, advocating for the integration of traditional Chinese culture within modern societal frameworks.

Continue Reading

Ezer Weizman

Israeli politician and former general
Born
June 15th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
April 24th, 2005 19 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1924, a military officer and politician served as the 7th President of Israel from 1993 to 2000. Weizman had a notable military career in the Israel Defense Forces, participating in key conflicts including the War of Independence and the Yom Kippur War. His contributions to Israeli defense strategy were significant, and he held various positions including Chief of Staff of the Air Force. After retiring from the military, transitioned to politics, playing a crucial role in peace negotiations with the Palestinians and fostering relations with other nations. His presidency focused on reconciliation and diplomacy, emphasizing peace initiatives.

Continue Reading

Swami Ranganathananda

Indian monk and educator at Ramakrishna Mission
Born
December 15th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
April 25th, 2005 19 years ago — 96 years old

A prominent Indian monk and educator associated with the Ramakrishna Order. Played a significant role in the dissemination of Vedanta and spiritual teachings. Focused on education as a means for social upliftment and played a part in various educational initiatives. Served as the president of the Ramakrishna Order from 1992 to 2005, strengthening the mission's outreach and teachings. Delivered numerous lectures and authored several books on spirituality and philosophy.

Continue Reading

Jim Barker

American politician, served in congress
Born
June 20th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
April 25th, 2005 19 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a U.S. Congressman representing the state of Pennsylvania. Played a significant role in various legislative efforts during the tenure from 1980 to 1983. Engaged in both local and national politics, contributing to public policy discussions and initiatives. Participated actively in the Republican Party, shaping political strategies and community outreach efforts.

Continue Reading

Augusto Roa Bastos

Paraguayan novelist and journalist
Born
June 13th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
April 26th, 2005 19 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent novelist and journalist, this individual significantly contributed to Paraguayan literature and journalism. His works addressed themes of identity, power, and social justice, deeply rooted in the cultural and historical context of Paraguay. The novel 'Yo el Supremo' is considered a masterpiece, exploring the complexities of dictatorship through a fictionalized account of one of Paraguay's historical leaders. Additionally, the author received international recognition for literary contributions, including the Miguel de Cervantes Prize in 1977. His academic pursuits further engaged with the socio-political landscape of Latin America and the role of language and literature in shaping the consciousness of a nation.

Continue Reading