What Happened This Year 1897

Born in 1897

Aneurin Bevan

Welsh politician and health reformer
Born
November 15th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1960 64 years ago — 62 years old

Served as a prominent politician and journalist in Wales. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom after World War II. Became Secretary of State for Health from 1945 to 1951, advocating for universal healthcare. Instrumental in the Labour Party's post-war policies and the implementation of social welfare reforms.

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Sacheverell Sitwell

Author and art critic, notable for writing
Born
November 15th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1988 36 years ago — 90 years old

An English author and critic contributed significantly to literature and art criticism during the 20th century. Published works include poetry, essays, and books on art, such as 'The Steppe', a travel narrative that reflects personal explorations. Served as a literary figure involved with the literary movement of the 1920s, representing a distinctive voice in modernist literature. Engaged in criticisms which shaped perceptions of contemporary art and literature, collaborating with various artists and intellectuals of the time. Sitwell's writings encompassed themes of aesthetics and culture, enhancing the discourse on the arts in England.

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Choudhry Rahmat Ali

Indian-Pakistani political activist and thinker
Born
November 16th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 54 years old

Choudhry Rahmat Ali played a significant role in the creation of Pakistan, advocating for a separate nation for Muslims in the Indian subcontinent. In 1933, published a pamphlet titled 'Now or Never', which called for the establishment of Pakistan as an independent homeland for Muslims. He formulated the term 'Pakistan', as an acronym representing the regions with significant Muslim populations in India. His ideas influenced the Pakistan Movement and led to the eventual creation of Pakistan in 1947. Ali's contributions during the struggle for independence emphasized the need for identity and representation for Muslims in a predominantly Hindu India.

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Frank Fay

American actor and comedian
Born
November 17th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1961 63 years ago — 63 years old

An actor and comedian recognized for contributions to theater and film. Achievements include pioneering stand-up comedy and performing in Broadway shows. Gained prominence for the lead role in the Broadway play 'The Royal Family.' Also appeared in films such as 'The Great Ziegfeld,' for which received an Academy Award nomination. His career spanned several decades, with performances that showcased a variety of comedic styles.

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Patrick Blackett

Physicist, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
November 18th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1974 50 years ago — 76 years old

An English physicist and academic contributed significantly to the fields of nuclear physics and particle physics. Developed the cloud chamber technique, leading to crucial discoveries in cosmic rays. Served as a professor at Imperial College London and held various positions within the academic community. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1948 for investigations of cosmic radiation and the discovery of the positron. His work laid important foundations in understanding subatomic particles and their interactions.

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Quentin Roosevelt

American lieutenant and pilot
Born
November 19th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1918 106 years ago — 20 years old

Born in 1897, served as a lieutenant in the United States Army Air Service during World War I. Completed flight training and was assigned to the 95th Aero Squadron. Participated in multiple missions over France and engaged in aerial combat. Demonstrated bravery in various operations. Died in action during a dogfight in July 1918.

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Germaine Krull

Photographer and political activist
Born
November 20th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 88 years old

Originated from Germany, this photographer contributed significantly to the field of photography, particularly in the 1920s and 1930s. Emphasizing a modernist approach, work included photojournalism and avant-garde techniques. A notable project involved documenting the lives of diverse social classes, reflecting social issues of the time. Additionally, engaged in political activism, actively promoting socialist ideas and defending workers' rights, particularly during turbulent periods in Germany. The dynamic works often captured the spirit of activism and the human condition, making a lasting imprint in the world of photography.

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Mollie Steimer

Russian-American political activist
Born
November 21st, 1897 127 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1980 44 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Russia in 1897, significant involvement in leftist politics began in the early 20th century. Relocated to the United States, continued to advocate for anarchism and anti-war sentiments. Engaged in labor movements and was an outspoken critic of government oppression. Arrested multiple times for activism and involvement in revolutionary activities. Became a symbol of resistance during the Red Scare, which led to her deportation back to Russia in the 1930s. Later returned to the United States where she remained a vocal advocate for civil liberties until her death.

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Nirad C. Chaudhuri

Historian and author of 'The Autobiography of an Unknown Indian'
Born
November 23rd, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 102 years old

Born in British India, a significant figure in Indian historiography and literature. Authored several works exploring Indian culture, history, and identity. 'The Autobiography of an Unknown Indian' received critical acclaim and highlighted personal experiences alongside broader historical narratives. Contributed to various publications, offering insights into colonialism, literature, and identity in the subcontinent. Lived for a period in England and influenced discussions on India in the diaspora through essays and articles.

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