What Happened This Year 1917

Born in 1917

Aimo Koivunen

Finnish soldier and war hero
Born
October 17th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1989 35 years ago — 71 years old

Served as a corporal in the Finnish Army during World War II. Participated in the Continuation War against the Soviet Union. Gained recognition for surviving a heroic solo escape after a severe battle in 1944, which involved traversing through enemy lines while wounded. Documented experiences in the Arctic warfare drew attention to the harsh conditions faced by soldiers in winter combat.

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Norman Leyden

Composer and conductor of orchestral works
Born
October 17th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2014 10 years ago — 96 years old

A prominent American composer and conductor, associated with the sounds of orchestral and television music, played a significant role in the realm of musical performance and composition. Leyden's work included conducting the Oregon Symphony, where he contributed to the enrichment of orchestral music in the region. Leyden also gained recognition for compositions that became staples in American music programs. His contributions extended to recording and arranging music that enhanced the quality of performances across various media, including television.

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Walter Munk

Oceanographer, author, and academic.
Born
October 19th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 102 years old

An oceanographer contributed significantly to the understanding of ocean currents and waves. Developed methods to forecast ocean fluctuations and made advances in physical oceanography. Authored numerous scientific papers and influenced generations of ocean scientists. Held positions at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and served as an educator and mentor for many students.

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William Joel Blass

American soldier and politician
Born
October 19th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2012 12 years ago — 95 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War II, participating in key operations. Held various legal roles after returning from military service, including working as an attorney. Elected to the Virginia House of Delegates, representing the 13th District for multiple terms. Throughout political career, focused on legislative issues and community engagement within the local region.

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Stéphane Hessel

Diplomat and author of 'Indignez-vous!'
Born
October 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 95 years old

A diplomat and author, played a significant role in French politics and literature. Contributed to the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. Authored 'Indignez-vous!', a bestseller advocating for social justice and political engagement at a global level. Engaged in various social and political movements throughout the latter half of the 20th century, influencing debates on human rights and democracy.

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Jean-Pierre Melville

French film director and screenwriter
Born
October 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1973 51 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent figure in French cinema, contributions included directing influential films during the post-war era. Established a unique style that fused American noir with French storytelling, leading to the emergence of the 'nouvelle vague' movement. Key works included 'Le Samouraï', which showcased minimalistic dialogue and strong visual storytelling, and 'Les Enfants Terribles', an adaptation of Jean Cocteau's novel. Additionally, founded his own production company, which allowed for creative freedom in filmmaking.

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Dizzy Gillespie

Jazz trumpeter and bebop pioneer
Born
October 21st, 1917 107 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1993 32 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent jazz trumpeter, composer, and bandleader, contributed significantly to the development of bebop and modern jazz. Pioneered the use of extended harmonies and complex rhythms. Collaborated with various notable musicians and led influential big bands. Released several acclaimed albums and compositions, including 'A Night in Tunisia' and 'Salt Peanuts'. His signature trumpet style involved a distinctive bent bell and a unique vibrato that influenced countless musicians.

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Joan Fontaine

Academy Award-winning actress
Born
October 22nd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2013 11 years ago — 96 years old

An actress with a significant career in film, achieved prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. Starred in Alfred Hitchcock's classic thriller 'Rebecca' and the suspenseful 'Suspicion', for which received an Academy Award for Best Actress. Recognized for her roles in both drama and romance, with appearances in 'Jane Eyre' and 'The Constant Nymph'. Her performances displayed a blend of vulnerability and strength, contributing to her long-lasting legacy in Hollywood.

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Carl Forssell

Swedish fencer, Olympic medalist
Born
October 25th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent Swedish fencer, competed in foil, épée, and sabre disciplines. Participated in the 1948 Summer Olympics in London, securing a bronze medal in the team foil event. Contributed to Sweden's reputation in the sport during a period of significant competition.

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