What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Edo Murtić

Croatian painter and sculptor
Born
May 4th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 84 years old

Murtić was a prominent Croatian painter, sculptor, and illustrator. Active primarily in the second half of the 20th century, he played a significant role in the Croatian art scene. His works explored abstraction and incorporated elements of expressive color. Murtić's artistic journey included extensive exhibitions across Europe and America, showcasing his unique style. He was also involved in various cultural and artistic initiatives in Croatia, contributing to the development of the visual arts.

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Laurel Aitken

Cuban-Jamaican singer and songwriter
Born
April 22nd, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Cuba and later settled in Jamaica, this artist became a prominent figure in the ska and reggae music scenes. Aitken began his music career in the late 1940s and recorded numerous hits throughout the 1950s and 1960s. His style blended traditional Jamaican sounds with influences from jazz and rhythm and blues. His song 'Boogie in My Bones' is considered a classic, showcasing his energetic performance style and lyrical creativity. In the 1980s, Aitken continued to perform, gaining recognition for his contributions to the genre and inspiring a new generation of musicians.

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Peter W. Rodino

American lawyer and politician
Born
June 7th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 96 years old

Served as a U.S. Representative for New Jersey from 1949 to 1989. Played a significant role as the Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee during the Watergate scandal, leading the impeachment proceedings against President Richard Nixon. Advocated for civil rights and immigration reform throughout his tenure. Was instrumental in the passage of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which significantly altered immigration policy in the United States.

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Grant Johannesen

Pianist and music educator
Born
July 30th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent pianist and educator, showcased solo and chamber music performances across the United States and Europe. Gained recognition for collaborations with notable musicians and orchestras. Served as a professor at various institutions, contributing to the training of numerous students in classical piano. Authored educational materials and recordings that highlight piano techniques and interpretations.

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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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Terri Schiavo

American medical patient advocacy case
Born
December 3rd, 1963 61 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 42 years old

Schiavo became widely recognized following a prolonged legal battle regarding her medical condition, which stemmed from a cardiac arrest in 1990 that resulted in a persistent vegetative state. The case raised significant ethical questions about health care, life support, and patient rights. It attracted national media attention and led to a series of court decisions that extended over several years, involving both her husband and her parents. The situation prompted widespread public debate on end-of-life issues.

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Jerzy Pawłowski

Polish fencer and double agent
Born
October 25th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1932, this individual excelled in fencing, representing Poland in international competitions. Alongside athletic achievements, involvement in espionage during the Cold War marked a significant chapter. The combination of skills in sport and intelligence activities created a distinctive legacy.

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Joe Harnell

American pianist and television composer
Born
August 2nd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 81 years old

A pianist and composer contributed significantly to television and film music. Served as music director for the iconic series 'The Twilight Zone' and composed the theme for 'The Bionic Woman'. Developed a unique style that blended classical music with contemporary elements. Recorded multiple albums showcasing versatility as a performer and composer. His work left a lasting legacy in the field of television music.

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Andrea Dworkin

American feminist author and activist
Born
September 26th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 59 years old

Activism centered on women's rights and anti-pornography legislation. Published several influential books including 'Pornography: Men Possessing Women' and 'Woman Hating'. Advocated for radical feminism and often engaged in controversial debates regarding sexuality and patriarchy. Worked tirelessly to bring attention to issues of violence against women and the impact of pornography on society. Participated in various protests and public discussions throughout her life, impacting feminist discourse.

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