What Happened This Year 1917

People Who Died in 1917

John William Waterhouse

English painter of mythological themes
Born
1849 176 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1917 108 years ago — 68 years old

An English painter associated with the Pre-Raphaelite movement, contributed significantly to the genre of mythological and classical subjects. Waterhouse created iconic works that often depicted women in various states of contemplation or interaction with mythic narratives. Notable pieces include 'The Lady of Shalott', which draws on Tennyson's poem, and 'Hylas and the Nymphs', showcasing influences from ancient Greek mythology. Waterhouse's style combined realistic details with romantic themes, becoming a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries art scene.

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Oswaldo Cruz

Epidemiologist and disease researcher
Born
August 5th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1917 108 years ago — 44 years old

A prominent Brazilian physician and epidemiologist, contributions included interventions against yellow fever, smallpox, and bubonic plague in Brazil. Engagement in public health campaigns significantly reduced the incidence of these diseases. Instrumental in the establishment of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute, dedicated to research and the development of vaccines and treatments for infectious diseases. His work laid the foundation for modern epidemiology in Brazil and influenced public health strategies globally.

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Octave Mirbeau

French journalist and playwright
Born
February 16th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1917 108 years ago — 69 years old

Contributed to literature as a journalist, novelist, and playwright. Best known for the novel 'Le Journal d'une femme de chambre' (A Chambermaid's Story), which explores themes of class and social issues in France. Also wrote 'Les Deux Mamelles de Titan' and numerous articles for various publications. His works often critiqued societal norms and advocated for social change. Participated in the literary and artistic movements in France during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing both literature and drama.

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Ferdinand von Zeppelin

Airship designer and businessman
Born
July 8th, 1838 186 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1917 108 years ago — 78 years old

A German general and businessman, contributed significantly to the development of rigid airships in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Established the Zeppelin Company, which produced airships that were widely used for passenger transport and military reconnaissance. Demonstrated the practicality of air travel with the successful launch of the LZ 1 in 1900. The design and engineering principles laid the groundwork for future developments in aviation, influencing both commercial and military air travel.

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Franz Brentano

German philosopher and psychologist
Born
January 16th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1917 107 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to philosophy and psychology. Developed the concept of intentionality, which influenced later philosophical thought. Served as a professor at the University of Würzburg and the University of Vienna. His works laid the foundation for phenomenology and were pivotal in the development of modern psychology.

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Elizabeth Storrs Mead

Academic and educational reformer
Born
1832 193 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1917 107 years ago — 85 years old

This individual contributed significantly to education and its reform in America. Engaged in academic scholarship, especially in the fields of education and sociology, this person authored several influential texts that shaped pedagogical approaches. Involvement with various educational institutions led to advancements in teaching methodologies. Active participation in academic organizations helped in promoting educational reforms during a transformative period in American education.

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Albert Pinkham Ryder

American painter, The Lorelei
Born
March 19th, 1847 177 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1917 107 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in American art, this painter became recognized for his unique style and evocative landscapes. The works often depicted themes of nature and the sublime, exhibiting a deep emotional resonance. This artist gained acclaim for the use of vivid colors and imaginative compositions, drawing inspiration from literature and mythology. Major exhibitions showcased the art, leading to significant attention towards his contributions to American impressionism. The painter's work, characterized by dreamlike qualities, has been influential in shaping the direction of modern art.

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Emil von Behring

Physiologist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
March 15th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1917 107 years ago — 63 years old

A German physiologist and physician, contributed significantly to medical science through the development of diphtheria antitoxin. Achievements marked the first-ever Nobel Prize awarded in Physiology or Medicine in 1901. Worked extensively in immunology and bacteriology, paving the way for future research in infectious diseases. Served as a professor in various universities, influencing generations of medical practitioners and researchers.

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Scott Joplin

Pianist and composer of ragtime music
Born
November 24th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1917 107 years ago — 48 years old

A pivotal figure in the development of ragtime music, this individual composed several influential pieces that helped define the genre. Most recognized for works such as 'Maple Leaf Rag' and 'The Entertainer', contributions to the early 20th-century music scene were significant. Established a reputation as a skilled pianist, performing in various venues to popularize the style of music. Continued to compose and gain recognition throughout his life, although success fluctuated. Worked to elevate ragtime to a more respected art form, with compositions that remain relevant in modern music.

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