What Happened This Year 1897

Historical Events from This Year 1897 (View all 20)

Economics & Industry

Shinhan Bank Established in Seoul

February 1st, 1897 128 years ago

Shinhan Bank was established in Seoul as South Korea's first bank, pioneering modern banking in the region. Founded by Lee Won-taek, the bank's primary goal was to enhance the financial infrastructure and support the economic development of Korea. Its inception marked a significant change in South Korea's financial landscape, allowing for greater investment and more structured financial services during a period of modernization. In the years following, Shinhan Bank grew rapidly, adapting to the needs of both individuals and businesses, thereby laying the groundwork for the banking sector's evolution in the country.

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Military & Warfare

Greece Declares War on the Ottoman Empire

April 18th, 1897 127 years ago

Greece declared war on the Ottoman Empire, escalating tensions related to territorial disputes and national aspirations. The conflict arose from Greece's ambitions to expand its territory to include ethnic Greek areas still under Ottoman rule, particularly in Crete, where rebellions had been ongoing. This declaration led to military confrontations that spread into broader regional dynamics, aligning various European powers with different sides of the conflict.

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Science & Technology

Thomson Unveils the Electron Discovery

April 30th, 1897 127 years ago

J. J. Thomson presented groundbreaking findings at a lecture at the Royal Institution in London, revealing the existence of the electron, a subatomic particle far smaller than a proton. His experiments with cathode rays led him to conclude that these particles were fundamental constituents of atoms. This discovery challenged previous atomic models and opened new doors in the field of atomic physics, setting the stage for modern quantum mechanics.

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Politics & Government

Treaty for Hawaii's Annexation Signed

June 16th, 1897 127 years ago

A treaty was signed to annex the Republic of Hawaii to the United States, initiated by the expansionist desires of U.S. leaders and supported by many economic interests. The signing marked a critical point in Hawaii's transition from an independent republic to U.S. territory. Despite the signing, the Republic of Hawaii remained in existence for an additional year before officially dissolving in 1898.

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Crime & Law

Assassination of British Officers in Pune

June 22nd, 1897 127 years ago

In Pune, Maharashtra, Charles Walter Rand and Lt. Charles Egerton Ayerst were assassinated by the Chapekar brothers, Mahadeo Vinayak Ranade, as an act of resistance against British colonial rule. Their motivations were rooted in the desire for independence and justice for Indian peasants exploited by the British. The attack shocked the colonial government, leading to a swift crackdown on revolutionary activities. The conspirators were eventually captured and hanged, marking a significant episode in India's struggle for freedom.

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Science & Technology

Guglielmo Marconi's Radio Patent Granted in London

July 2nd, 1897 127 years ago

Guglielmo Marconi secured a pivotal patent for radio technology in London, marking a significant milestone in communication advancements. This breakthrough followed his extensive experimentation with wireless telegraphy, demonstrating the potential for long-distance communication without wires. Marconi's innovative work attracted attention in both scientific and commercial circles, paving the way for the future of radio communication. The patent provided him legal recognition to continue his experiments and commercial ventures, effectively launching his career as a leading inventor in the field.

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Born in 1897 (View all 231)

Theodore Plucknett

Legal historian and author of 'A Concise History of the Common Law'
Born
January 2nd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent legal historian specializing in the English common law system, contribution focused on the historical development of legal principles. Published a significant work titled 'A Concise History of the Common Law,' which provided a thorough analysis of the evolution of common law. Held an academic position at the University of London and influenced legal education through teachings and writings. Engaged in historical research that advanced understanding of legal institutions and their origins.

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Eithne Coyle

Irish republican revolutionary leader
Born
January 3rd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 88 years old

Involved in the Irish War of Independence and the subsequent Civil War, played a key role in the fight for Irish independence. Coyle participated in the 1916 Easter Rising, which sought to end British rule in Ireland. Active in the political sphere after the war, focused on promoting the republican cause and advocating for the rights of Irish citizens. Coyle's contributions included mobilizing support and organizing efforts for the republican movement.

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Marion Davies

Actress and comedian from silent films
Born
January 3rd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1961 63 years ago — 64 years old

An American actress and comedian, celebrated for contributions to the film industry during the silent and early sound eras. Gained prominence in the 1920s with successful comedies and dramas. Starred in several significant films, including 'Little Old New York' and 'The Patsy'. Established a notable partnership with producer William Randolph Hearst, which influenced both personal and professional trajectories. After transitioning into sound films, continued to perform in leading roles until the mid-1930s. Retired from acting but remained a prominent figure in Hollywood social circles until her death.

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Chen Cheng

Chinese Politician, Vice President
Born
January 4th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1965 60 years ago — 68 years old

Involved in the political landscape of the Republic of China, served as Vice President from 1954 to 1960. Played a significant role in various governmental reforms and military affairs during his tenure. His early career included military service during the Second Sino-Japanese War, and he rose to prominence in the nationalist government. Engaged in post-war reconstruction efforts and foreign relations, particularly with the United States. Contributed to the development of policies aimed at stabilizing the Taiwanese economy during a pivotal period. Oversaw military strategies as the head of the Central Military Commission.

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Kiyoshi Miki

Japanese philosopher and author
Born
January 5th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 48 years old

Contributed significantly to Japanese philosophy and the study of Western philosophical thought. Wrote extensively on topics such as ethics, aesthetics, and social philosophy, integrating Eastern and Western traditions. Miki's work often focused on the relationship between philosophy and cultural understanding. Involved in various educational initiatives, promoting philosophical discourse in modern Japan. Participated in organizations aimed at fostering philosophical thought.

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Dennis Wheatley

Soldier and author of thriller novels
Born
January 8th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 80 years old

Served in the British Army during World War I and later became a prolific author. Gained recognition for writing a series of thriller novels, particularly in the horror and occult genres. His work often featured themes of adventure, mysticism, and the supernatural. Authored several bestsellers, contributing significantly to the genre. Wrote 'The Devil Rides Out', which became particularly popular and was later adapted into a film.

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People Who Died in 1897 (View all 53)

Galileo Ferraris

Italian physicist and engineer
Born
October 31st, 1847 177 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1897 128 years ago — 49 years old

Contributed significantly to electrical engineering and physics in the late 19th century. Developed the induction motor, laying the groundwork for modern alternating current (AC) electrical systems. Worked on electromagnetic induction and made advancements in the understanding of electrical circuits and resonant circuits. Engaged in academic roles, influencing future generations in the field of electrical engineering.

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Dimitrie Ghica

Romanian lawyer and Prime Minister
Born
1816 209 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1897 128 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 10th Prime Minister of Romania from 1866 to 1867. Contributed to the legal framework of Romania through various reforms. Played a significant role in the political landscape during the late 19th century. Engaged in the legislative process, focusing on modernization.

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Karl Weierstrass

Mathematician, founder of analysis
Born
October 31st, 1815 209 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1897 128 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent mathematician, contributions focused on real analysis and function theory. Developed the Weierstrass approximation theorem, a foundational result in the field, which states that any continuous function can be uniformly approximated by polynomials. Taught at multiple universities, influencing the next generation of mathematicians. Established the Weierstrass institute for mathematics in Berlin.

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Charles Blondin

Tightrope walker, Niagara Falls performer
Born
1824 201 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1897 128 years ago — 73 years old

A renowned tightrope walker and acrobat, this individual gained prominence for performances over Niagara Falls. His most famous feat involved crossing the falls on a tightrope, captivating audiences with remarkable stunts including walking blindfolded and on stilts. Showcasing exceptional skill, he also carried various props across the rope, like a chair and a man on his back. His daring demonstrations contributed significantly to the popularity of tightrope walking as a form of entertainment during the 19th century.

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Woldemar Bargiel

German composer and educator
Born
October 3rd, 1828 196 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1897 128 years ago — 68 years old

A German composer and educator contributed significantly to the Romantic music repertoire. Studied under prominent composers, integrating classical traditions with innovative approaches. Held a teaching position at the Berlin Hochschule für Musik, influencing a generation of musicians. Focused on symphonic compositions, chamber music, and choral works, showcasing lyrical melodies and orchestral richness. Engaged in music life in Berlin, collaborating with notable contemporaries and performing compositions across Europe.

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Harriet Ann Jacobs

Abolitionist and author of Incidents
Born
1813 212 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1897 128 years ago — 84 years old

An African American abolitionist and author, contributed significantly to the anti-slavery movement in the 19th century. Wrote 'Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl', one of the first female-authored slave narratives, providing a firsthand account of the struggles faced by enslaved women. Advocated for the rights of women and children, highlighting issues of sexual exploitation and inequality. Actively participated in the abolitionist movement and worked with prominent activists, including Susan B. Anthony. Her literary work remains influential in studies of race, gender, and American history.

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