What Happened This Year 1897
Born in 1897
Vivienne Segal
An accomplished actress and singer, made notable contributions to Broadway. Starred in the original production of the musical 'Lady in the Dark' in 1941, earning acclaim for her performance. Also featured in productions such as 'The Desert Song' and 'Show Boat'. Her career spanned several decades, with a focus on musical theater and concert performances.
Continue ReadingEarl Blaik
Played football at the University of Michigan and served as head coach at Dartmouth College and Army. Led the Army football team from 1941 to 1948, achieving significant success during that period. Under his guidance, the team won four national championships and had a remarkable record. Developed a reputation for producing future NFL players and coaching excellence.
Continue ReadingLouis Réard
An engineer and fashion designer originally from France, revolutionized swimwear by introducing the bikini in 1946. This two-piece bathing suit challenged traditional designs and quickly became a defining symbol of women's beachwear. The design was initially controversial but eventually gained widespread popularity, influencing fashion and culture significantly. Réard’s innovations extended beyond the bikini, as he contributed to the evolution of swimwear aesthetics throughout his career, reflecting the changing attitudes towards body image and femininity.
Continue ReadingMudicondan Venkatarama Iyer
An influential figure in Carnatic music, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of traditional music. Recognized for contributions to music theory and practice, particularly in the realm of classical vocal music. Composed numerous kritis and was instrumental in the revival of various classical forms. Through performances and teaching, has influenced many musicians and scholars in the field. Published several works on musicology, providing insights into the rich tradition of South Indian music.
Continue ReadingNaomi Mitchison
An author and poet, produced a wide array of literary works, including novels, poetry, and essays. Significant contributions include historical fiction and exploration of social issues. Engaged in left-wing politics and supported various causes, including anti-colonialism and women's rights. Explored themes of personal and cultural identity in a global context through her writings. Worked as a mentor for other writers and fostered discussions on literary criticism throughout her career.
Continue ReadingJosep Pla
A prominent Catalan journalist and author, this individual contributed significantly to Catalan literature and journalism throughout the 20th century. Active in various literary and political circles, focus centered on realism and the depiction of everyday life in Catalonia. The body of work includes essays, articles, and novels that have become quintessential to understanding Catalan culture. Travel writings and reflections on social issues were prominent, showcasing the region's landscape and life during tumultuous times. The longstanding influence remains in Catalan literary discussions and historiography.
Continue ReadingSam Chatmon
A significant figure in the blues genre, contributed to the traditional folk style while amplifying the Delta blues sound. Performed extensively throughout the United States and recorded numerous songs that highlighted the cultural heritage of the Mississippi Delta. Played guitar and sang in various settings, including clubs and festivals, gaining recognition for both live performances and recorded albums. Active in the music scene until death in 1983, his legacy continued to influence future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingEdith Ballinger Price
A writer and illustrator specialized in children's literature. Created a series of beloved children's books, combining engaging stories with unique illustrations. Worked as an art teacher during the earlier part of her career, fostering creativity in students. Served as an illustrator for magazines, enhancing publications through artistic contributions. Later, established a reputation for combining art and storytelling, which resonated with young audiences.
Continue ReadingOtto Struve
An astronomer and academic contributed significantly to the field of astrophysics. Struve served as the director of the Yerkes Observatory and conducted research on stellar spectra and double stars. He played a pivotal role in the development of modern observational astronomy and was influential in the establishment of the National Science Foundation. Additionally, he wrote extensively on astronomical topics, including a foundational textbook on stellar spectroscopy.
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