What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Jimmy Griffin

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 10th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent American singer-songwriter and guitarist, created significant contributions to the pop and rock music scenes. Became a founding member of the group Bread, which achieved major success during the 1970s. The group is recognized for crafting soft rock hits that resonated with a wide audience. Later ventured into a solo career, producing several albums that showcased personal songwriting skills and melodic guitar work.

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Isabella Bashmakova

Historian of Mathematics in Russia
Born
January 3rd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1921, a historian of mathematics specialized in the historical development of mathematical concepts and practices. Focused on the evolution of mathematics in Russia and its contributions to the global field. Published several works that analyzed the mathematical advancements and the influence of Russian mathematicians. Contributed to the understanding of the broader historical context of mathematics.

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Ramanand Sagar

Director of 'Ramayan' television series
Born
December 29th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 88 years old

Indian director and producer, involved in the film industry from the 1940s. Gained prominence for directing the television adaptation of the epic Ramayana, which aired in 1987 and became immensely popular across India. Also produced other television series that portrayed Indian mythology and historical narratives. Established a production company that contributed to various cultural projects. Sagar's work played a significant role in shaping Indian television during the 1980s.

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Nel Benschop

Dutch poet and educator with acclaimed works
Born
January 16th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 87 years old

Birth occurred on January 16, 1918. Dedicated work as a poet and educator influenced literary circles. Benschop contributed significantly to Dutch literature, crafting evocative poetry that resonated with readers. As an educator, focused on developing literary skills among students, fostering a love for poetry and literature. Published multiple poetry collections that showcased a unique style, exploring themes of identity, society, and nature. Continued to engage in literary activities throughout life, leaving a lasting imprint on Dutch poetry and education.

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Alexander Gomelsky

Professional basketball coach in USSR
Born
January 18th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent basketball coach, contributed significantly to the development of basketball in the Soviet Union and Russia. Served as head coach for the Soviet national team, leading it to multiple championships in the EuroBasket tournament. Coached club teams including CSKA Moscow, achieving success in the Soviet League. Additionally, made a mark in international basketball by guiding the national team to gold medals in the 1982 FIBA World Championship and the 1988 Seoul Olympics. His career spanned several decades, emphasizing the importance of strategic game play and player development in basketball.

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Ted Radcliffe

American baseball player and manager
Born
July 7th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 103 years old

A professional baseball player and manager, contributed significantly in the Negro leagues. During the 1920s and 1930s, played as a catcher for various teams, most notably the Birmingham Black Barons. Transitioned into management, leading teams in the Negro leagues. His career spanned several decades, showcasing notable talent and leadership in baseball.

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Maurice Hilleman

Microbiologist and vaccine developer
Born
August 30th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent microbiologist and vaccinologist contributed to the development of over 40 vaccines. Played a pivotal role in creating vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella, significantly reducing the incidence of these diseases. Spent a significant part of his career at Merck & Co., where research focused on vaccine safety and efficacy. Hilleman's work laid the foundation for modern immunology and has saved millions of lives globally.

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Dale Messick

Author and illustrator of Brenda Starr
Born
April 11th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 99 years old

An American author and illustrator, significant contributions included the creation of the comic strip Brenda Starr, which debuted in 1940. Messick's work featured a strong female character in the traditionally male-dominated comic industry. The strip garnered a large readership and was notable for its glamorous storytelling and vibrant artwork, continuing for several decades. Messick also became the first female cartoonist to have a comic strip in major syndication, paving the way for future female artists in the field.

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Spencer Dryden

American drummer for Jefferson Airplane
Born
April 7th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 67 years old

Born in April 1938, a prominent drummer in the American rock band Jefferson Airplane, which achieved significant fame in the 1960s. The band was a key figure in the development of psychedelic rock and is well remembered for its performances at the Woodstock Festival in 1969. Dryden joined Jefferson Airplane in 1966, contributing to the band's iconic sound with his innovative drumming style. He played on several celebrated albums, including 'Surrealistic Pillow' and 'After Bathing at Baxter's', both critical to the counterculture movement of the era. After leaving the band in 1970, he continued to work in music, collaborating with various artists and groups throughout his career.

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