What Happened This Year 1917

People Who Died in 1917

Bryn Lewis

Welsh International Rugby Player
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1917 107 years ago — 26 years old

Played as a forward in rugby union and represented Wales at the international level. Participated in key matches during the early 20th century. Contributed to the growth of rugby in Wales and was one of the prominent players of his time. His career was cut short due to his untimely death in 1917 while serving in World War I.

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James Hope Moulton

Philologist and scholar of English literature
Born
1863 162 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1917 107 years ago — 54 years old

Contributed extensively to English philology and linguistics. Authored significant texts on the subject, including influential works that addressed grammar, semantics, and the historical evolution of the English language. Served as a professor at the University of the Cape of Good Hope, where a strong focus was placed on teaching and promoting English studies. Engaged in various scholarly activities that shaped the understanding of English language development during the early 20th century.

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Diamond Jim Brady

Businessman and philanthropist
Born
August 12th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
April 13th, 1917 107 years ago — 60 years old

Established a successful career as a businessman in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, specializing in the jewelry and railroad industries. Became widely recognized for extravagant spending habits and a lavish lifestyle. Contributed significantly to charitable causes, particularly in the fields of education and healthcare. Maintained high-profile social connections with entertainers, politicians, and industrialists during the Gilded Age.

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Vladimir Serbsky

Russian psychiatrist and academic
Born
1858 167 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1917 107 years ago — 59 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of psychiatry in Russia during the early 20th century. Founded the Serbsky State Scientific Center for Social and Forensic Psychiatry, which played a pivotal role in the development of psychiatric services in the country. Participated in international psychiatric congresses and published various works that focused on the relationship between mental health, social factors, and criminal behavior. Advocated for the humane treatment of individuals with mental illnesses.

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Florence Farr

British actress and theater director
Born
1860 165 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1917 107 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent figure in British theater, contributed significantly to the development of theatrical arts in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Directed and performed in various productions, becoming associated with the London stage. Worked with various literary figures and was involved with the design and execution of innovative theatrical performances. Helped introduce and popularize modernist theater techniques during a transformative period in the arts.

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Albert Ball

English fighter pilot in World War I
Born
August 14th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1917 107 years ago — 20 years old

A British fighter pilot, notable contributions occurred during World War I. Activities included combat missions in the Royal Flying Corps. Achieved high acclaim for aerial victories and strategic aerial reconnaissance. Recognized as a skilled pilot, ranked as a captain, and awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery. His engagements with enemy aircraft established a reputation for exceptional flying skills.

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Charles Brooke

Rajah of Sarawak, founder of Brooke rule
Born
1829 196 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1917 107 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the Rajah of Sarawak from 1868 until death in 1917. Established a monarchy in Sarawak following the rule of his adopted father, James Brooke. Expanded the territory and maintained order through a series of reforms in governance, law, and education. Promoted economic growth through agriculture and trade. Fostered relations with local tribes and neighboring regions.

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Valentine Fleming

Scottish soldier and politician
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1917 107 years ago — 30 years old

Served as a politician and soldier during World War I. Held the rank of major in the Royal Field Artillery. Died in action at the Battle of Bapaume in France. His political career included service as a Conservative Member of Parliament for Henley from 1910 until his death in 1917. He was involved in various military campaigns and was recognized for leadership in combat.

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Philipp von Ferrary

Stamp collector and expert
Born
1850 175 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1917 107 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent stamp collector from Italy, focused on acquiring rare postage stamps, especially those from French colonies. Established a significant collection of over 2,000 unique items. The collection was considered one of the finest in the world, encompassing many notable pieces that contributed to the study and appreciation of philately. Upon death, the collection was sold, setting record prices at auction and leaving a lasting legacy in the world of stamp collecting.

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