What Happened This Year 1897

Born in 1897

Ferenc Szálasi

Hungarian politician, Head of State
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1946 79 years ago — 49 years old

Served as the leader of Hungary during World War II. Szálasi held the position of Head of State from 1944 to 1945, advocating for the Arrow Cross Party's radical nationalist agenda. His regime aligned closely with Nazi Germany and implemented harsh measures against Jews and other minorities. Following the war, Szálasi was arrested and tried for war crimes. He was executed in 1946.

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Earl Blaik

American football coach and player
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1989 36 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.

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Graham Walker

Motorcycle racer and journalist
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1962 62 years ago — 65 years old

Graham Walker competed as a motorcycle racer, establishing a career in the early to mid-20th century. He participated in various racing competitions and contributed to the sport through journalism. His expertise in both racing and reporting provided valuable insights into motorcycle sport. Walker was affiliated with leading motorcycle clubs and participated in numerous events, showcasing his skills on the track. His contributions extended beyond racing as he documented the sport, offering perspectives and stories that resonated with fans and participants alike.

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Percy Alliss

Golfer and BBC commentator
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1975 50 years ago — 78 years old

Played professional golf from the 1920s to the 1950s. Competed in numerous tournaments, including the Open Championship. Transitioned to broadcasting, becoming a prominent voice in golf commentary for the BBC. Worked with several notable golfers and contributed to the sport's popularity through media appearances and commentary.

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Mudicondan Venkatarama Iyer

Indian singer and musicologist
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1975 49 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.

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Otto Struve

Astronomer and academic with notable research
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1963 62 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.

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