What Happened This Year 1917

Born in 1917

Obdulio Varela

Uruguayan footballer and captain of 1950 World Cup
Born
September 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1996 28 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent Uruguayan footballer, played as a midfielder. Captained the national team during the 1950 FIFA World Cup, leading Uruguay to victory over Brazil in the final, a match known as the 'Maracanazo'. Played most of his club career at Club Nacional de Football, contributing to numerous domestic titles. Recognized for strong leadership and tactical intelligence on the field.

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Olga Dahl

Genealogist and author of genealogy books
Born
September 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 92 years old

Born in Sweden in 1917, a prominent genealogist who significantly contributed to genealogy through research and writing. Authored several influential books on Swedish ancestry and family history, helping many individuals trace their lineage. Involved in various genealogical societies, providing guidance and expertise in historical records and research methods. Her work addressed the importance of preserving historical documents and understanding family histories within a broader social context.

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Fernando Rey

Spanish actor in film and television
Born
September 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1994 31 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent Spanish actor, featured in over 200 films during a prolific career spanning several decades. Gained international recognition through collaborations with notable directors, including Luis Buñuel. Achieved acclaim for roles in films such as 'Viridiana,' 'The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie,' and 'The French Connection.' His performances contributed to the popularity of Spanish cinema during the latter half of the 20th century.

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Phyllis Nicolson

Mathematician and academic in England
Born
September 21st, 1917 107 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1968 56 years ago — 51 years old

Contributions included research in mathematics and work in mathematical education. Served as a senior editor for a major mathematical journal, influencing the field significantly. Held a professorship and played a key role in shaping mathematical curricula at the university level. Contributed to various mathematical conferences and publications, enhancing collaboration among mathematicians.

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El Santo

Mexican Luchador and film actor
Born
September 23rd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 67 years old

A professional wrestler and actor from Mexico, gained popularity in the 1940s. Became a legendary figure in lucha libre, known for wearing a silver mask. Starred in numerous films that combined wrestling with adventure and fantasy themes. Helped bring lucha libre into the mainstream, becoming a cultural icon. Continued to perform until death in 1984.

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Asima Chatterjee

Chemist and herbal medicine expert
Born
September 23rd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2006 18 years ago — 89 years old

Contributions to the field of organic chemistry included research on alkaloids and medicinal plants. Developed anti-epileptic drugs from natural sources, which advanced pharmaceutical science in India. Authored numerous research papers and was instrumental in bridging traditional medicine with modern science. Held positions in various academia and research institutions, playing a significant role in the scientific community.

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Phil Rizzuto

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
September 25th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2007 17 years ago — 89 years old

A baseball player and sportscaster, achieved recognition primarily through a successful career with the New York Yankees from 1941 to 1956. Played as a shortstop and contributed to five World Series championships. After retiring from professional play, transitioned to broadcasting, where provided commentary for Yankees games for over three decades. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977 as a player.

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Réal Caouette

Canadian journalist and politician
Born
September 26th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1976 48 years ago — 59 years old

Contributed to Canadian politics and media during the 20th century. Elected as the leader of the Social Credit Party of Canada in 1965 and served as a Member of Parliament. Advocated for the rights of Francophones across Canada while managing various social issues. Worked as a journalist prior to his political career, which provided a foundation for his communication skills and public engagement.

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Tran Duc Thao

Vietnamese philosopher and theorist
Born
September 26th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1993 31 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent Vietnamese philosopher, theorist, and Marxist thinker contributed to the philosophical discourse in Vietnam. Worked extensively on the principles of dialectical materialism and critically engaged with various philosophical traditions. Authored significant works that combined Marxist theory with traditional Vietnamese thought, particularly in relation to ethics and social philosophy. Influenced the development of leftist intellectual movements in Vietnam. Spent part of life advocating for Marxist-Leninist ideologies and participated in the intellectual development of political discourse in a changing Vietnam.

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