What Happened This Year 1917

Born in 1917

Elmer Gedeon

Baseball player and bomber pilot
Born
April 15th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1944 80 years ago — 27 years old

An American baseball player and bomber pilot, played for the Washington Senators in Major League Baseball. After his baseball career, served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Gedeon was killed in action in 1944, becoming one of the few professional athletes to lose their life in the conflict.

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Barry Nelson

American actor in 'The Shining'
Born
April 16th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2007 17 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent American actor with a career spanning several decades, recognized for contributions to film and television. Gained significant attention for roles in classic productions, particularly in the horror genre. Played a lead role in the television adaptation of Stephen King's 'The Shining', which contributed to his lasting legacy in horror cinema. Also appeared in various other projects, showcasing versatility across different media.

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Sidney Nolan

Australian painter famous for Ned Kelly series
Born
April 22nd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1992 32 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1917, this Australian painter became renowned for exploring Australian themes through art. The Ned Kelly series remains a significant contribution, depicting the life of the infamous outlaw in a modernist style. His works often showcased a distinctive blend of abstraction and representational techniques. Throughout his career, he experimented with various mediums, including oils and lithographs, and received recognition both nationally and internationally. His career spanned several decades, leading to exhibitions in major galleries across Australia and abroad, effectively cementing a legacy within the world of art history.

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Yvette Chauviré

French ballerina and ballet master
Born
April 22nd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 99 years old

Born in 1917, a distinguished ballerina and ballet master shaped the landscape of French ballet. Recognized for performances at the Paris Opera Ballet, highlighted by interpretations of major classical roles. Renowned for executing intricate techniques and delivering expressive interpretations on stage. Later in life, transitioned to teaching and coaching new generations of dancers, imparting an enduring legacy to the art form.

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Dorian Leigh

American model and fashion icon
Born
April 23rd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2008 16 years ago — 91 years old

An influential figure in the fashion industry, this individual gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. Started modeling in the late 1940s and quickly became one of the first supermodels. Worked with renowned designers and appeared on the cover of numerous magazines. Transitioned into acting, appearing in films and television. Became a trailblazer for models and paved the way for future generations in the industry.

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Tony Lupien

Baseball player and coach
Born
April 23rd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 87 years old

Played in Major League Baseball as a first baseman from 1942 to 1949. Primarily associated with the Boston Red Sox and the Chicago White Sox, participated in a total of 393 games throughout his career. Transitioned to coaching after retiring as a player, serving in various capacities including at the minor league level. Contributed to the development of many young players during his coaching tenure.

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Ella Fitzgerald

Jazz singer and Grammy winner
Born
April 25th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1996 28 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1917, a prominent jazz singer emerged, recognized for exceptional vocal skills and improvisational ability. Achievements included collaborations with notable musicians such as Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong. Fitzgerald's discography features iconic albums like 'Ella Fitzgerald Sings the Duke Ellington Songbook' and 'Ella and Louis'. Through a prolific career, she received numerous accolades, including 14 Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

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I. M. Pei

Architect and Louvre Pyramid designer
Born
April 26th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2019 5 years ago — 102 years old

An influential architect, contributed significantly to modern architecture with the design of several landmark buildings. The Louvre Pyramid in Paris, completed in 1989, remains a celebrated achievement. Other notable works include the Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston. Pei's approach often integrated modernist aesthetics with traditional elements, showcasing an emphasis on harmony and balance in his designs. His innovative vision earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1983.

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Sal Maglie

Baseball player and coach, 1950 All-Star
Born
April 26th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1992 32 years ago — 75 years old

Played professional baseball as a right-handed pitcher. Competed in Major League Baseball primarily for the New York Giants and the Brooklyn Dodgers. Achieved notable success in the 1950 season, earning an All-Star selection. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from playing, contributing to the development of younger players. Garnered respect in both playing and coaching capacities throughout a career spanning over two decades.

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