What Happened This Year 1917

People Who Died in 1917

Frances Xavier Cabrini

Italian-American nun and saint
Born
July 15th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1917 108 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Italy and later naturalized in the United States, dedicated life to serving the Italian immigrant community. Founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus to provide education and aid in New York City. Established numerous schools, hospitals, and orphanages across the country and abroad. Canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1946 and recognized as the first American citizen to be made a saint.

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Alfred Edwin McKay

Pilot and Canadian military captain
Born
December 27th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1917 107 years ago — 25 years old

Served as a pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War I. Played a crucial role in various missions, showcasing skill and bravery in aerial combat. Achieved the rank of captain while demonstrating leadership in challenging situations. Contributed to the development of aviation tactics during the war. After the war, continued to be involved in civil aviation and fostered the growth of flying clubs in Canada.

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Georg Karl Maria Seidlitz

German entomologist and academic
Born
June 19th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 77 years old

An entomologist and academic specialized in beetles. Conducted extensive research on various insect species, particularly in the order Coleoptera. Contributed to taxonomic studies, discovering and describing numerous new species. Authored important works that influenced the field of entomology and educated future generations of scientists.

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George F. Roesch

American lawyer and politician
Born
June 19th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1855, this individual practiced law and engaged in local politics. Served on the Board of Supervisors of San Francisco and was integral in various civic initiatives. Elected to the California State Senate, contributed to numerous legislative efforts during the early 20th century. This individual remained active in legal and political circles throughout his career and was respected for his contributions to the community.

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Ben Viljoen

South African general during the Boer War
Born
September 7th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 48 years old

Born in a British colony in South Africa, a prominent general during the Second Boer War from 1899 to 1902. Commanded Boer forces in various battles against British troops, utilizing guerrilla tactics effectively. After the war, engaged in politics and served as a member of the House of Assembly in the Transvaal. Emigrated to the United States in 1906, where involvement in local politics continued. Contributed to the establishment of an Afrikaner government in the early 20th century, advocating for the rights of Boer descendants.

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Ecaterina Teodoroiu

Romanian soldier and nurse in WWI
Born
January 14th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 23 years old

Served as a soldier and nurse during World War I. Joined the Romanian army when the country entered the war in 1916. Fought on the front lines and was recognized for bravery in battle. Treated wounded soldiers, using nursing skills to care for them. Died in combat in 1917 at the Battle of Mărăști, becoming a national symbol of sacrifice and patriotism.

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Leone Sextus Tollemache

English Captain of the British Army
Born
June 10th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 33 years old

Served as a captain in the British Army. Participated in World War I, contributing to military operations on the Western Front. Demonstrated leadership skills and tactical knowledge during various engagements. Engaged in post-war activities related to veterans and military history.

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Eric Campbell

British actor from 'The Gold Rush'
Born
April 26th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 38 years old

Born in 1879 in England, this individual achieved prominence in the early 20th century as an actor. His collaboration with Charlie Chaplin in several films solidified his reputation in the film industry. One of the most notable works was the role in 'The Gold Rush', where the character's humorous yet memorable presence entertained audiences. The actor's performances typically showcased a strong physicality and comedic timing, contributing to the silent film era's charm and creativity. Tragically, his life was cut short in a car accident in 1917, but his work has endured through classic cinema.

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T. E. Hulme

English poet and literary critic
Born
September 16th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 34 years old

Contributed significantly to early 20th-century poetry and literary criticism. Played a central role in shaping modernist aesthetics. Published influential essays that examined the philosophical underpinnings of art and poetry. Worked with prominent literary figures and contributed to the development of Vorticism, a modernist movement in art and literature. His poetry reflects a complex engagement with imagery and form, leading to a lasting influence on subsequent generations of poets.

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