What Happened This Year 1897

Born in 1897

Péter Veres

Hungarian Minister of Defence
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1970 56 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in Hungarian politics during the mid-20th century, served as Minister of Defence. Played a significant role in military and defense policies. Involved in post-World War II reconstruction efforts and administration. Contributed to discussions regarding national security and defense during a critical period in Hungarian history.

Continue Reading

Dai Li

Chinese general of the Nationalist Army
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1946 80 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent general in the Nationalist Army during the Second Sino-Japanese War, played a significant role in military operations and strategies against Japanese forces. Established and led the Military Intelligence Service, contributing to intelligence efforts for the Nationalists. After the war, involved in the Chinese Civil War before relocating and facing challenges in later years due to political changes.

Continue Reading

Vola Vale

American actress in silent films
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1970 55 years ago — 73 years old

An American actress, significant contributions were made to the silent film era. Starred in several films during the 1920s, showcasing talents in various genres. Achieved prominence through performances that captivated audiences of the time. Continued to work in the film industry until transitioning to more behind-the-scenes roles. Career spanned over two decades, with a lasting influence on early cinema.

Continue Reading

Earl Blaik

American football coach and player
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1989 37 years ago — 92 years old

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 Reading

Constance McLaughlin Green

Historian and author of data-driven history
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1975 50 years ago — 78 years old

A historian and author specialized in American history, focused on the historical context of the American West and its development. Authored several influential works, including the notable 'The Quiet Voices' which examined the lives of individuals who shaped the history of the American West. Contributed extensively to the understanding of the impact of federal policies on the American landscape during the 19th and 20th centuries. The first woman to receive the Bancroft Prize in American History, which recognized exceptional scholarship in the field. Engaged in educational efforts that elevated the study of history in academic settings and beyond.

Continue Reading

Mudicondan Venkatarama Iyer

Indian singer and musicologist
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1975 50 years ago — 78 years old

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 Reading

Henry Johnson

American World War I sergeant
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1929 96 years ago — 32 years old

Served in the Harlem Hellfighters regiment during World War I. Fought in the Battle of Belleau Wood in 1918. Demonstrated exceptional bravery and tactics in combat, contributing significantly to the efforts of the United States military forces. Received the French Croix de Guerre for valor in action against enemy forces.

Continue Reading

Frank Walsh

Australian politician and Premier
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1968 58 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the 34th Premier of South Australia. Held office from 1930 to 1933, overseeing significant administrative duties. Played a role in the Labor Party and contributed to various policies during a period of economic challenges. Engaged with local government issues and worked on infrastructure projects aimed at improving the community.

Continue Reading

Otto Struve

Astronomer and academic with notable research
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1963 63 years ago — 66 years old

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.

Continue Reading