What Happened This Year 1917

People Who Died in 1917

Frances Xavier Cabrini

Italian-American nun and saint
Born
July 15th, 1850 174 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1917 107 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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William Lane

Journalist and founder of New Australia
Born
September 6th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 56 years old

Born in England and later moving to Australia, engaged in journalism and social reform. Founded the New Australia settlement in Paraguay, promoting a communal lifestyle based on socialist principles. Contributed to several publications, advocating for workers' rights and political change.

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Janez Evangelist Krek

Slovene journalist and politician
Born
November 27th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 52 years old

A Slovene priest and journalist, focused on promoting Slovene culture and national identity. Active in politics, served in various roles advocating for education reforms and cultural initiatives. His work in journalism contributed to the Slovene press at the turn of the 20th century, enhancing public awareness of regional issues. Engaged in efforts to improve the welfare of Slovene citizens, linking his religious duties with political activism.

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Arthur Matthew Weld Downing

Astronomer and astrophysicist
Born
April 13th, 1850 174 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of solar phenomena. Focused on solar eclipses and the nature of stellar atmospheres. Participated in several expeditions to observe solar eclipses, including the notable solar eclipse of 1871. Published works on the physical processes of stars and celestial bodies, influencing future research in astrophysics.

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Matthias Zurbriggen

Swiss mountaineer and explorer
Born
May 15th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent mountaineer in the late 19th century, played a key role in the development of alpinism. Achieved the first ascent of the Aiguille Rouge in 1864 and the first ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865. Also participated in the first ascent of several peaks in the Andes, including the first ascent of Monte San Valentin in 1897. Contributed significantly to the exploration and climbing of remote areas, garnering recognition within the mountaineering community.

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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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Hussein Kamel

Sultan of Egypt and Sudan
Born
November 21st, 1853 171 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 64 years old

Ascended to the throne of Egypt in 1914 and ruled until 1917. During his reign, significant events included the political, social, and economic changes resulting from World War I. His leadership was marked by challenges including the British occupation and growing nationalist movements, which shaped the future of Egypt. The reign concluded with his abdication in favor of his nephew, Fuad I.

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Ranavalona III

Queen of Madagascar, last monarch
Born
November 22nd, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 56 years old

Ascended the throne of Madagascar in 1883 and served as the last reigning monarch until the French colonization in 1897. Faced the challenges of foreign influence and internal strife while maintaining the sovereignty of the kingdom. After the French annexation, was exiled to Réunion and later to Algiers, where she lived until her death in 1917.

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