What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Ted Greene

American guitarist and music journalist
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2005 19 years ago — 59 years old

An influential figure in American guitar music, contributed significantly to guitar instruction through the publication of instructional materials. Authored 'Chord Chemistry', a book that explored chord theory and fingerboard navigation for guitarists. Worked as a session musician and performed with various artists while also being a sought-after teacher in the Los Angeles area. His guitar style blended elements from jazz and classical music, influencing both students and fellow musicians. Recognized for his unique approach to harmony and improvisation, left a lasting legacy on guitar education.

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Richard Doll

Epidemiologist who studied smoking links
Born
October 28th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
July 24th, 2005 19 years ago — 92 years old

A significant figure in public health, contributed to the understanding of the relationship between smoking and lung cancer, as well as the association of tobacco with various diseases. Conducted large-scale epidemiological studies, including the groundbreaking British Doctors Study, which tracked the health of over 34,000 physicians. His research led to the establishment of causal links between smoking and several health issues, shaping smoking cessation initiatives and public health policies globally. Actively engaged in advocating for anti-smoking regulations throughout his career.

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Albert Mangelsdorff

Trombonist and educator in Germany
Born
September 5th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2005 19 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent trombonist and educator, contributed significantly to the development of extended playing techniques for the trombone. Served as a professor at the Hochschule für Musik in Frankfurt, imparting knowledge to numerous students. Gained recognition for the innovative use of multiphonics in his performances. Collaborated with various notable musicians across genres, highlighting a commitment to both traditional and avant-garde styles.

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Gilles Marotte

Canadian ice hockey player, NHL star
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2005 19 years ago — 60 years old

Played professional ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily as a defenseman. Career spanned from 1960 to 1976, representing teams such as the Chicago Black Hawks and the Detroit Red Wings. Contributed to the successes of multiple teams during his tenure. Played during an era that featured legendary players and contributed to the development of the game.

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Al Held

Abstract painter and educator
Born
October 12th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2005 19 years ago — 76 years old

An American painter and academic, this individual became a prominent figure in the field of abstract art. Work included large-scale canvases characterized by geometric shapes and bold colors. Held was a member of the New York School and contributed to the evolution of geometric abstraction from the 1960s onward. In addition to painting, engaged in teaching as a professor at notable institutions, influencing a new generation of artists. Exhibited widely across the United States and internationally.

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Marten Toonder

Comic strip creator, Tom Puss
Born
May 2nd, 1912 112 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2005 19 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent comic strip creator, produced iconic works that resonated with audiences in the Netherlands and beyond. Created the famous character Tom Puss, which debuted in the late 1940s. Developed a unique narrative style that combined humor and philosophical themes. Founded Toonder Studios, which produced a range of comic adaptations and original stories, significantly influencing the comic art scene throughout Europe.

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John Garang

Sudanese politician and leader
Born
June 23rd, 1945 79 years ago
Died
July 30th, 2005 19 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent Sudanese colonel and politician, played a pivotal role in the Second Sudanese Civil War. Served as the leader of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement and Army (SPLM/A). Held the position of First Vice President of Sudan and President of Southern Sudan following the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement. Advocated for the rights of the southern Sudanese people and worked for the establishment of a democratic governance structure.

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Ray Cunningham

Baseball player, New York Giants
Born
January 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
July 30th, 2005 19 years ago — 100 years old

Played professional baseball primarily as a catcher from the 1920s to the 1930s. Had significant tenure with the New York Giants in Major League Baseball. Competed at a high level during a time of great competition within the sport and took part in multiple seasons. Joined the Giants in 1929 and contributed to the team's efforts in various matches and series throughout his career.

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Wim Duisenberg

Dutch economist and former Minister of Finance
Born
July 9th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2005 19 years ago — 70 years old

An influential economist and politician, served as the Minister of Finance in the Netherlands. Played a pivotal role in the creation of the Euro as the first President of the European Central Bank from 1998 to 2003. Focused on monetary stability and economic integration within the European Union. His leadership in European monetary policy and his contributions to economic affairs significantly shaped the fiscal landscape of the region.

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