What Happened This Year 1917

Born in 1917

Wilfrid Noyce

Mountaineer and author of climbing literature
Born
December 31st, 1917 107 years ago
Died
July 24th, 1962 62 years ago — 44 years old

A prominent English mountaineer and author, contributed significantly to mountaineering literature and exploration. Played a key role in the first ascent of Makalu in 1955 as part of a British expedition. Authored several works on mountain climbing, including 'The Hard Road' which detailed personal experiences and the philosophy of climbing. Actively participated in numerous expeditions to the Himalayas and other regions, promoting the sport and sharing knowledge on climbing techniques and ethics.

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Evelyn Knight

American singer with hit 'A Little Bird Told Me'
Born
December 31st, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 90 years old

Started a career in music in the late 1930s, gaining prominence through radio and recording. Achieved considerable success with the hit single 'A Little Bird Told Me' in 1948, which topped the charts and became a defining song of the era. Her style blended traditional pop and easy listening, appealing to a wide audience. Continued to perform and record throughout the subsequent decades, contributing to a rich legacy in the American music scene.

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Malcolm Forbes

American publisher and entrepreneur
Born
August 19th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1990 35 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent publisher, focused on business and finance, established Forbes Magazine in 1917, which gained recognition for reporting on global economic trends and entrepreneurship. Led the magazine through significant growth, transforming it into a leading source of information on wealth and business strategies. Active in various business ventures including the Forbes Group, the publication's renowned ranking lists, such as the Forbes 400, became standard references for gauging American wealth. Notable for advocating for economic freedom and entrepreneurship, supported numerous philanthropic causes related to education and healthcare.

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Ahron Soloveichik

Rabbi and Jewish scholar
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2001 23 years ago — 84 years old

This individual served as a prominent rabbi and scholar within the Jewish community. He was recognized for contributions to Talmudic scholarship and education. Ahron Soloveichik played a significant role in the development of Jewish thought in the 20th century, merging traditional values with contemporary issues. His teachings influenced many students and laypeople. This scholar also authored several works that continue to be referenced in Jewish studies.

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Milton Resnick

Painter, Abstract Expressionism
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2004 21 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in Abstract Expressionism, contributed significantly to the New York School of painting. Emigrated from Russia in childhood, later studied at the National Academy of Design and the New School for Social Research. Established a unique style characterized by large canvases, vibrant colors, and textured surfaces. Served as a professor at various institutions, mentoring the next generation of artists. Resnick's work remains influential in modern art circles.

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Vasily Petrov

Russian marshal and military leader
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 97 years old

A significant figure in the Soviet military, served as a commander during various conflicts. Played a crucial role in military operations during the Cold War. Led strategic advancements and provided key insights into military strategy.

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Dabbs Greer

American actor in 'Little House on the Prairie'
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2007 17 years ago — 90 years old

An American actor with a career spanning several decades, contributed to film and television. Appeared in over 200 television episodes throughout a long career. Gained significant recognition for the role of Reverend Alden in the television series 'Little House on the Prairie'. Also featured in films such as 'The Green Mile'.

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Billy Butterfield

Trumpet player and bandleader of swing era
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1988 36 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent trumpet and cornet player, contributed to the development of big band music during the swing era. Played with renowned orchestras, including the Bob Crosby Orchestra and the Benny Goodman Orchestra. Led his own band, which gained recognition in dance halls and on radio broadcasts. Butterfield's warm tone and expressive phrasing contributed significantly to the sound of the music of the time.

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Albert Lee Ueltschi

Businessman and aviation training pioneer
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2012 12 years ago — 95 years old

Founded FlightSafety International, a premier aviation training company that provides pilot and instructor training programs. The company became a leader in the aviation industry, offering advanced simulations and technologies. Ueltschi was actively involved in aviation safety initiatives and contributed to the development of standards for pilot training. His work significantly influenced how aviation education and training were implemented worldwide.

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