What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Lajos Baróti

Hungarian football manager and player
Born
August 19th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2005 19 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in Hungarian football, this individual was a skilled player before transitioning to management. Playing primarily as a forward, contributions were significant during the late 1930s. Later became a successful manager, overseeing the national team during a pivotal era. Achieved notable success at the club level, particularly with teams like MTK Budapest and several other Hungarian clubs. Focused on developing young talent and implementing strategic innovations in the sport.

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Yao Wenyuan

Chinese politician and writer
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2005 19 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in the Chinese Cultural Revolution, held a key role as a member of the Gang of Four. Worked as a political theorist and author, significantly contributing to revolutionary literature. Played a part in formulating cultural policies and critiquing artistic expressions. After the fall of the Gang of Four, faced arrest and was later convicted of counter-revolutionary activities.

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Joseph Pararajasingham

Sri Lankan journalist and politician
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2005 19 years ago — 71 years old

Engaged in journalism, business, and politics, played a significant role in Sri Lankan media. Served as a Member of Parliament representing the Batticaloa District. Worked as an advocate for the Tamil community, highlighting issues faced during the Sri Lankan Civil War. Contributed to various media outlets, focusing on the Tamil perspective. His efforts included addressing social injustices and advocating for peace in a divided nation. Played a critical role in voicing concerns related to human rights violations.

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Birgit Nilsson

Operatic soprano renowned for Wagner roles
Born
May 17th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2005 19 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Sweden, an operatic soprano emerged as one of the leading voices in the 20th century, particularly celebrated for her interpretations of the works of Richard Wagner and Giuseppe Verdi. Engaged with major opera houses worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera and the Royal Opera House, performed memorable roles such as Brünnhilde in 'Der Ring des Nibelungen' and Turandot in 'Turandot'. Achievements included numerous acclaimed performances in stage productions and recordings, earning a reputation for both vocal skill and dramatic presence. Also contributed to the field through teaching and mentoring young artists in later years.

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Derek Bailey

Guitarist and Improviser
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2005 19 years ago — 75 years old

An influential English guitarist and improviser, Bailey made significant contributions to the genre of free improvisation. He pioneered the use of non-standard techniques and explored the boundaries of guitar music through collaborations and performances. Bailey founded the record label Incus in 1970, which published works that promoted avant-garde and experimental music. He also established several ensembles, including the Company and the Music Improvisation Company, helping to cultivate a community of improvisers.

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Muriel Costa-Greenspon

Soprano and actress in opera and music
Born
December 1st, 1937 87 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2005 19 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1937, this American soprano and actress achieved recognition in the world of opera and musical theater. Performances included roles in productions such as "Carmen" and "The Magic Flute." Alongside opera, the soprano contributed to various musical performances and concerts, showcasing a powerful vocal range and acting skills. In the late 20th century, the artist gained acclaim through collaborations with prominent orchestras, further solidifying a reputation in the performing arts.

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Kerry Packer

Australian media mogul & businessman
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2005 19 years ago — 68 years old

Transformed the landscape of Australian media through strategic acquisitions and the creation of new broadcasting entities. Established the PBL media group, overseeing significant operations in television and publishing. Played a crucial role in the development of the Nine Network, which hosted popular programs such as the Nine News and The Footy Show. Actively supported cricket, founding World Series Cricket, which revolutionized the sport's broadcasting and commercial viability.

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Vincent Schiavelli

American actor in iconic films
Born
November 11th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2005 19 years ago — 57 years old

An actor renowned for unique roles in film and television, spanning a career from the 1970s until his passing in 2005. Notable performances included the roles in 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' as Taber and in 'Ghost' as the subway ghost. Contributions to television included appearances on series such as 'The Wonder Years' and 'Batman: The Animated Series.' Apart from acting, authored a book on Italian cuisine titled 'Vincent Schiavelli's Midnight Kitchen.' His signature look and character portrayals left a lasting impression in the entertainment industry.

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Ted Ditchburn

English footballer and coach
Born
October 24th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2005 19 years ago — 84 years old

A professional footballer and manager. Played as a goalkeeper and spent the majority of his playing career at Tottenham Hotspur from 1939 to 1959. Won the FA Cup in 1961 with Tottenham and later served as a coach. Managed several clubs, including a short stint at Wycombe Wanderers.

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