What Happened This Year 1917

Born in 1917

Wang Yung-ching

Businessman and founder of Formosa Plastics
Born
January 18th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 91 years old

Born in Taiwan, an entrepreneur established Formosa Plastics Corporation in 1954, which became one of the largest plastic manufacturers in the world. Immigrated to the United States, and expanded business operations in petrochemicals and manufacturing. Played a crucial role in the development of the Taiwanese economy during the 20th century. Significant contributions to charitable efforts, particularly in education.

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Erling Persson

H&M founder and retail pioneer
Born
January 21st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2002 22 years ago — 85 years old

Founded H&M in 1947, which became a global fashion retailer. The first store opened in Västerås, Sweden, and the brand rapidly expanded internationally. Under leadership, H&M introduced affordable fashion to a broad audience, emphasizing sustainability in recent years. Persson's vision established a successful business model in the fast fashion industry.

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Bruce Shand

English soldier
Born
January 22nd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2006 18 years ago — 89 years old

Served as an officer in the British Army, participating in various military campaigns. Had a notable career, including service during World War II. Played a role in the military operations and was involved in training exercises thereafter. Served in the Royal Gurkha Rifles and achieved the rank of Major. Post-military career included contributions to various charitable organizations.

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Ernest Borgnine

American actor in film and television
Born
January 24th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 8th, 2012 12 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent American actor, earned acclaim for performances across film and television. Gained recognition for portraying the lead role in the film 'Marty,' which won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1955. Starred in the popular television series 'McHale's Navy,' which aired from 1962 to 1966. Throughout a career spanning over six decades, contributed to various genres, including drama and comedy, solidifying a reputation as a versatile performer. Worked with numerous notable directors and actors, receiving critical praise for various roles. Borgnine's contributions to the entertainment industry were acknowledged with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, celebrating significant achievements in acting.

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Wilhelmus Demarteau

Dutch Roman Catholic prelate
Born
January 24th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1949 and served in various positions within the Roman Catholic Church. Became the auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Utrecht in 1973, contributing to the spiritual guidance and administration of the church. His focus included pastoral care and the promotion of ecclesiastical education. Participated actively in regional and national discussions concerning the Catholic Church's role in Dutch society. Retired in 1992 and continued to support church initiatives until passing.

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Jânio Quadros

Brazilian lawyer and politician
Born
January 25th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1992 33 years ago — 75 years old

A lawyer and politician served as the 22nd President of Brazil from January 31, 1961, to August 25, 1961. Quadros was elected as the mayor of São Paulo before assuming the presidency. His presidency was marked by an attempt to implement nationalist policies and anti-corruption measures, while also facing opposition from various sectors. The resignation was announced unexpectedly, which led to political instability in the country.

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Ilya Prigogine

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 25th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2003 21 years ago — 86 years old

Contributions to thermodynamics and physical chemistry included the formulation of the theory of dissipative structures. This work highlighted the behavior of complex systems far from equilibrium. Served as director of the International Solvay Institutes and held a professorship at the Université Libre de Bruxelles. In 1977, received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for contributions that advanced the understanding of thermodynamic processes.

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Louis Zamperini

Runner and WWII veteran
Born
January 26th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2014 10 years ago — 97 years old

Born on January 26, 1917, a distinguished runner excelled in track and field, earning a spot in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Served as a bombardier in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. After his plane crashed in the Pacific Ocean, he survived on a life raft for over a month and endured hardships as a prisoner of war in Japan. Post-war, engaged in motivational speaking and authored an autobiography, detailing his experiences and resilience.

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John Raitt

Broadway actor and singer with iconic roles
Born
January 29th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 88 years old

An American actor and singer, recognized for contributions to the musical theater scene, particularly during the mid-20th century. Starred in original productions of notable musicals such as 'Oklahoma!' and 'Carousel'. Worked extensively in both Broadway and television, delivering memorable performances that showcased a powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. Influenced many performers in the musical genre and left a lasting legacy in theater.

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