What Happened This Year 1917

People Who Died in 1917

Harry S. Barlow

British tennis player and Wimbledon participant
Born
April 5th, 1860 165 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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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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Liliʻuokalani

Last monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom
Born
September 2nd, 1838 187 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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Valdemar Psilander

Danish actor in early cinema
Born
May 9th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 33 years old

Born in Denmark in 1884, this actor gained prominence in silent films during the early 20th century. He contributed to the burgeoning film industry with performances in several key films. Notably, this actor starred in 'Afgrunden' (1910), which marked a significant moment in Danish cinema history. Throughout the 1910s, involved in various productions, helping to shape the early narratives of film in Denmark. His career spanned both acting and involvement in cinema, reflecting the growth of the industry at that time.

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Edward Burnett Tylor

Anthropologist and author of 'Primitive Culture'
Born
October 2nd, 1832 193 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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Wladimir Burliuk

Ukrainian painter and illustrator
Born
March 27th, 1886 139 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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Arthur Matthew Weld Downing

Astronomer and astrophysicist
Born
April 13th, 1850 175 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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Agnes Sime Baxter

Canadian mathematician and educator
Born
March 18th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 47 years old

Contributed to mathematics education and research, particularly in areas of algebra and geometry. Served as the first female faculty member at the University of Alberta. Actively promoted women's participation in higher education. Published various papers and texts that advanced the understanding of mathematical concepts in her field.

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