What Happened This Year 1897
Born in 1897
Alan Kippax
Debuted in Test cricket for Australia in 1925. Participated in 11 Test matches and scored 1,174 runs with an average of 51.78. Played domestic cricket for New South Wales, achieving consistent performances that contributed to team successes. Retired from cricket after a notable career in the sport.
Continue ReadingGene Tunney
A celebrated boxer, achieved prominence in the 1920s. Secured the heavyweight title after defeating Jack Dempsey in 1926. Defended the championship successfully against Dempsey in a rematch. Intermittently served in the United States Marine Corps during World War I. Also participated in the 1920 Olympic Games as a boxer.
Continue ReadingJohn Cockcroft
An English physicist contributed significantly to nuclear physics and particle acceleration. Developed the Cockcroft-Walton generator, which was the first device to accelerate protons to high energies. Led a team that achieved the first artificial nuclear reaction by bombarding lithium with protons, resulting in the release of alpha particles. Served as a professor and held leadership positions in various academic institutions, including the University of Cambridge.
Continue ReadingDink Templeton
Competed in rugby as a player and served as a coach. Played for the United States national rugby team during the early 20th century. Contributed significantly to the development of the sport in America through coaching and mentoring aspiring players. Influenced rugby's growth at the grassroots level, emphasizing skill development and teamwork.
Continue ReadingErich Wolfgang Korngold
A composer, pianist, and conductor, he gained prominence in the early 20th century for significant contributions to classical music and film scoring. Active in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s, he became a leading figure in the creation of symphonic film scores. His operas, such as 'Die tote Stadt', showcased a blend of lush melodies and rich harmonies, reflecting the influences of his early training in Vienna. The Academy Award was received for Best Original Score for the film 'Adventure.' He collaborated with prominent figures in the film industry, solidifying his legacy in both concert music and popular culture.
Continue ReadingFrank Wise
Served as the 16th Premier of Western Australia from 1947 to 1948. Played a significant role in state politics during a time of post-war recovery. Initiated policies for housing and education to support the growth of the state. Contributed to the development of infrastructure and public services.
Continue ReadingMemphis Minnie
Born in 1897, a significant figure in the blues genre, contributed as both a singer and guitarist. Played a crucial role in the development of the Chicago blues scene in the 1930s. Recorded numerous tracks, which showcased both vocal and instrumental proficiency. Collaborated with prominent musicians and recorded for major labels. Continued to perform and influence the music landscape until the 1950s.
Continue ReadingJoel Rinne
Born in 1897, a prominent Finnish actor contributed significantly to Finnish film and theater. After studying at the Helsinki Theatre School, began a notable career in the 1920s. Gained recognition for roles in classic films such as 'Kielitohtori' and 'Siltalan Pehtoori'. Also performed in numerous theatrical productions, showcasing versatile acting skills.
Continue ReadingGeorge Szell
Born in Hungary, a prominent conductor and composer, Szell led the Cleveland Orchestra for over two decades. His tenure significantly elevated the orchestra's reputation, establishing it as one of the finest in the United States. Szell's interpretations of classical music, particularly works by composers such as Beethoven and Brahms, were noted for their precision and clarity. Szell also made numerous recordings, which contributed to his legacy in the classical music world.
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