What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown

American blues musician and guitarist
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2005 19 years ago — 81 years old

An American blues musician and guitarist emerged as a prominent figure in the genre, known for blending Texas blues with country and jazz influences. Born in 1924, he began his career in the 1940s, gaining acclaim for his expressive guitar playing and powerful vocals. He released several albums throughout his career, with notable works including 'Gatemouth Blues' and 'The man with the Guitar.' His performances showcased a unique blend of styles, reflecting his diverse musical influences. He toured extensively, establishing a reputation as a vibrant live performer, and was awarded a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album in 1982 for 'Alright Again.'

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Serge Lang

Mathematician and author of Algebra
Born
May 19th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2005 19 years ago — 78 years old

A mathematician and author with significant contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in algebra and number theory. Authored several influential textbooks, including a widely used text titled 'Algebra.' Served as a professor at prestigious institutions and participated in various mathematical conferences. Engaged in activism within the mathematical community to improve the accessibility of mathematics education. Contributed to the mathematical literature through numerous published papers and served on editorial boards for mathematical journals.

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Julio César Turbay Ayala

Colombian politician and president
Born
June 18th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2005 19 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the 25th President of Colombia from 1978 to 1982. Turbay Ayala was a prominent lawyer and politician who focused on national security and economic development during his presidency. His administration faced significant challenges, including issues related to violence and drug trafficking. Prior to the presidency, he held various governmental positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs. His political career spanned several decades, and he was a member of the Liberal Party.

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Toni Fritsch

Austrian footballer and World Cup participant
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2005 19 years ago — 60 years old

Played as a forward and became a key player for the Austrian national team. Participated in the 1978 FIFA World Cup, contributing to Austria's impressive performance in the tournament. Had a successful club career, playing for clubs such as Rapid Vienna and later moving to Germany to play for FC Schalke 04. Established himself as a prominent figure in Austrian football before retiring. Continued to be involved in the sport after retirement until passing away in 2005.

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Vladimir Volkoff

Soldier and author of 'KGB' and 'The Treadmill'
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2005 19 years ago — 73 years old

A soldier and author who served in the French army. Wrote several books exploring themes of espionage and the Cold War. 'KGB' became a notable work that detailed Soviet intelligence operations. Engaged with political and military topics throughout a prolific writing career. Explored the psychological aspects of totalitarianism in various novels.

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Robert Wise

Film director and producer of classics
Born
September 10th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2005 19 years ago — 91 years old

Directed and produced acclaimed films across various genres. Gained recognition for work in the science fiction and musical genres. Won Academy Awards for directing 'West Side Story' and 'The Sound of Music'. Contributed significantly to the editing of 'Citizen Kane', one of the most influential films in cinema history.

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Guy Green

Film director and screenwriter
Born
November 5th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2005 19 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1913, a filmmaker recognized for contributions to British and American cinema. Directed films such as 'The End of the Affair' and 'The Green Years'. Also worked as a cinematographer on notable projects during the mid-20th century. Transitioned from cinematography to directing in the 1950s and was active in the industry for several decades, demonstrating versatility in storytelling. Later earned an Academy Award for Best Cinematography for his work on 'The Mark' in 1961.

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Sidney Luft

American film producer and executive
Born
November 2nd, 1915 109 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2005 19 years ago — 89 years old

A film producer and studio executive, contributions included work on notable films throughout the 1940s and 1950s. Produced the acclaimed musical 'A Star is Born' (1954), which earned multiple Academy Award nominations. Collaborated with major stars of the era, particularly with actress Judy Garland, who was married to Luft for a significant period. Founded production companies and participated in various aspects of film distribution.

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Gordon Gould

Physicist and laser inventor
Born
July 17th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2005 19 years ago — 85 years old

An American physicist and academic, contributed to the field of optics and photonics. Invented the laser in the 1950s and coined the term 'laser', standing for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Although the invention faced patent disputes, secured a patent in 1977 after several legal battles. Served as a professor and held various academic positions throughout his career.

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