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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Edward Burnett Tylor

Anthropologist and author of 'Primitive Culture'
Born
October 2nd, 1832 192 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 85 years old

An English anthropologist, significant contributions were made to the field of anthropology, particularly in cultural anthropology. 'Primitive Culture', published in 1871, established the concept of culture as a key aspect of human societies. The work laid foundational principles for the study of cultural evolution and the comparison of different cultures. Tylor introduced the idea of animism and developed a framework for understanding the spiritual beliefs of ancient peoples. His methodology involved extensive fieldwork and the analysis of cultural practices, making anthropology more scientifically rigorous.

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William Duddell

English physicist and engineer, inventor of the Duddell oscillator
Born
July 1st, 1872 152 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 45 years old

Born in England in 1872, contributed significantly to the field of physics and engineering. Developed the Duddell oscillator, an important invention in the study of oscillations and electronic signals. Engaged in research on electric waves and founded key principles influential to later advancements in electronics. His work laid the groundwork for improved telecommunications and radio technology.

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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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Harry S. Barlow

British tennis player and Wimbledon participant
Born
April 5th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 57 years old

Competed in tennis during the late 19th century. Participated in several editions of Wimbledon, contributing to the sport's early competitive landscape. Gained recognition through performances at major tournaments.

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T. E. Hulme

English poet and literary critic
Born
September 16th, 1883 141 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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Wladimir Burliuk

Ukrainian painter and illustrator
Born
March 27th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 31 years old

Born in 1886, this painter and illustrator contributed significantly to the avant-garde movement in Ukraine. Active in the early 20th century, associations with fellow artists and involvement in the art community were pivotal in shaping contemporary art in the region. Formed part of artistic organizations that promoted modernist principles and innovative techniques. Explored various styles, including expressionism and futurism, which influenced later generations of artists. Played a crucial role in bridging European artistic trends with local Ukrainian culture, enhancing its visibility on the international stage.

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Liliʻuokalani

Last monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom
Born
September 2nd, 1838 186 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 79 years old

The last sovereign monarch of Hawaiʻi reigned from 1891 until the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893. Born into the Hawaiian royal family, significant contributions include promoting the Hawaiian language and culture. After the overthrow, was imprisoned in the ʻIolani Palace and later expressed her views through writing, with works like the song 'Aloha ʻOe'. Advocated for the rights of the Hawaiian people and opposed annexation by the United States. In her later years, worked to restore the Hawaiian monarchy unsuccessfully.

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