What Happened This Year 1917

Born in 1917

Leonard J. Arrington

Author and historian of Mormonism
Born
July 2nd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 82 years old

An American author and academic focused on Mormon history, contributed significantly to the scholarly understanding of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Played a key role in founding the Mormon History Association, which aims to promote and disseminate research on Mormon history. Arrington's work emphasizes the importance of historical context in understanding the faith's development and influence. Published numerous books and articles on the subjects of Mormonism and its historical narratives, helping to shape the field of religious studies within American history.

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João Saldanha

Brazilian football manager and journalist
Born
July 3rd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1990 34 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent football manager and journalist, this individual managed the Brazilian national team during the 1960s and contributed significantly to the sport through insightful commentary and analysis. He led Brazil to a championship-level performance during his management tenure. In addition to coaching, he worked as a sports journalist, offering detailed critiques and discussions on football tactics and player performances. His multifaceted career encompassed both management and media, influencing the understanding of football in Brazil and beyond.

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Arthur Lydiard

New Zealand runner and coach
Born
July 6th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
December 11th, 2004 20 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent runner and coach, contributed significantly to the field of distance running. Developed a training methodology that emphasized aerobic conditioning and long-distance runs. Coached numerous athletes, many of whom achieved international success. Influenced coaching practices around the world and became a key figure in the sport of athletics.

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Iva Withers

Canadian-American actress and singer
Born
July 7th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
October 7th, 2014 10 years ago — 97 years old

Born in 1917, a career spanned several decades in film and music. Achieved recognition for performances in musicals, particularly in the Broadway production 'Oklahoma!'. Transitioned to television and appeared in notable series such as 'The Ed Sullivan Show'. Also known for a rich singing career that complemented acting roles.

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Fidel Sánchez Hernández

Salvadoran general and president
Born
July 7th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 86 years old

Served as a general in the Salvadoran military and held the position of President of El Salvador from 1967 to 1972. Focused on strengthening the military and preserving stability during a challenging period in the country's history. Contributed to military reforms and attempted to address tensions within the political landscape, emphasizing anti-communist policies.

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J. F. Powers

Novelist and short story writer
Born
July 8th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1999 25 years ago — 81 years old

Became prominent in the literary world through contributions as a novelist and short story writer. Authored acclaimed works that explore themes of faith and human experience. Gained recognition for a distinctive narrative style and a focus on the lives of clergy and the complexities of personal belief. Achieved a significant level of literary success with novels and shorter works that captivated readers and earned critical acclaim.

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Pamela Brown

English actress in film and television
Born
July 8th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1975 49 years ago — 58 years old

Active from the 1940s through the 1970s, an actress contributed to British cinema and television. She gained recognition for roles in films such as 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and 'The Killing of Sister George.' In addition to her film work, she appeared in several television dramas, establishing a solid presence in British entertainment. Brown's performances showcased her versatility within diverse genres, and she retained a dedicated following throughout her career.

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Faye Emerson

American actress and television personality
Born
July 8th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1983 42 years ago — 65 years old

An actress started a career in the 1930s, gaining recognition for roles in film and television. She starred in the movie 'Kings Row' (1942) alongside Ronald Reagan and appeared in the popular series 'The Faye Emerson Show' (1950-1951). Her work spanned several decades, contributing to both cinema and early television.

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Krystyna Dańko

Holocaust survivor and Polish orphan
Born
July 9th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 102 years old

Born in 1917, this individual survived the Holocaust during World War II. As a child, faced with the horrors of wartime, managed to navigate life as an orphan amidst extreme adversity. The experiences endured during this tumultuous period shaped a resilient character and fueled a commitment to sharing the harrowing story of survival with future generations.

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