What Happened This Year 1917

Born in 1917

James C. Murray

American lawyer and politician
Born
May 16th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1999 25 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1917, a lawyer and politician served in various political roles in the state of New York. Worked on a range of legislative issues, with a focus on civil rights and urban development. Elected as a member of the New York State Assembly and later the New York State Senate, contributing to significant reforms throughout his tenure. Played a crucial role in the development of state policies that addressed housing and education.

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Ben Kuroki

American pilot and World War II sergeant
Born
May 16th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2015 9 years ago — 98 years old

Served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Kuroki flew combat missions in the Pacific Theater and became the first Japanese American to be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. His military career included significant contributions to aerial bombing campaigns against enemy targets. After the war, Kuroki returned to civilian life and continued to advocate for Japanese American rights.

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Bill Everett

American author and illustrator
Born
May 18th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1973 52 years ago — 55 years old

An author and illustrator specialized in comic books and graphic novels. Created the character Namor the Sub-Mariner for Marvel Comics. Worked for several publishing companies and became influential in the early comic book industry. Contributed to various titles and character designs, leaving a lasting legacy in comic artistry.

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Guy Favreau

Canadian lawyer and 28th Minister of Justice
Born
May 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1967 57 years ago — 50 years old

A lawyer and politician, served as the 28th Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada from 1963 to 1965. Played a significant role in the introduction of the Canadian Bill of Rights in 1960. Worked as a judge of the Superior Court of Quebec and as a member of the House of Commons, representing the Liberal Party. Encouraged legislative changes aimed at modernizing Canada's legal framework.

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Tony Cliff

Israeli-English author and activist
Born
May 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 83 years old

An author and activist, contributed to socialist thought and played a significant role in British politics through the establishment of a political group. Wrote extensively on issues concerning capitalism and socialism, influencing leftist ideology. Founded the International Socialism journal, which became a platform for socialist discourse. Engaged in activism for workers' rights and anti-imperialism, shaping political movements in the UK.

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Raymond Burr

Actor in Perry Mason and Rear Window
Born
May 21st, 1917 107 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1993 31 years ago — 76 years old

An actor and director with a career spanning several decades, contributions include a prominent role in the television series Perry Mason, which ran from 1957 to 1966. Burr portrayed the character of defense attorney Perry Mason, earning critical acclaim. Additionally, starred in the classic Alfred Hitchcock film Rear Window released in 1954. Other works included appearances in various television dramas and films, showcasing a range of talent across genres.

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Jean-Louis Curtis

French author and novelist
Born
May 22nd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 78 years old

An influential French author, he contributed significantly to literature in the 20th century. His works often reflected the complexities of human experience and social issues. Curtis achieved recognition for writing novels that explored existential themes and personal introspection. His storytelling style was marked by nuanced character development and intricate plots, appealing to a diverse readership. His literary contributions were acknowledged through various accolades, including the prestigious Prix Goncourt.

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Edward Norton Lorenz

Mathematician and Meteorologist, Chaos Theory
Born
May 23rd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2008 16 years ago — 90 years old

Contributions to mathematics and meteorology included pioneering work in chaos theory and developing the concept of sensitive dependence on initial conditions, often referred to as the 'butterfly effect'. Developed numerical weather prediction models that enhanced meteorological practices. Contributions laid the groundwork for further advancements in dynamical systems and complexity science.

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Alan Campbell

English lawyer and judge
Born
May 24th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
June 30th, 2013 11 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1917, career as a lawyer included service as a judge and legal scholar. Campbell held the position of Baron Campbell of Alloway, contributing to various judicial panels and legal proceedings throughout the late 20th century. Campbell's legal influence extended into areas of public law, and writings on legal practice have been referenced in numerous legal contexts. The contributions made throughout these roles highlighted advancements in English legal standards.

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