What Happened This Year 1917

Born in 1917

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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Wilfrid Noyce

Mountaineer and author of climbing literature
Born
December 31st, 1917 107 years ago
Died
July 24th, 1962 63 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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Malcolm Forbes

American publisher and entrepreneur
Born
August 19th, 1919 106 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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Zhou Xiaoyan

Soprano and music educator
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2016 9 years ago — 99 years old

A prominent Chinese soprano and music educator, contributed significantly to the field of vocal performance and education. Served as a professor at various prestigious institutions and mentored numerous students in classical music. Performed in leading roles in major operas and concert halls across China and internationally. Worked to promote Chinese music and culture through performances and educational initiatives.

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Adam Malik

Indonesian politician and diplomat
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1984 41 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the 3rd Vice President of Indonesia from 1971 to 1973. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Non-Aligned Movement, contributing to Indonesia's foreign policy and international relations during his tenure. Held various diplomatic positions, including as Indonesia's ambassador to the United States and as the Minister of Information. Actively engaged in promoting international peace and cooperation.

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Brenda Joyce

American actress in film and television
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2009 16 years ago — 92 years old

An actress with a career spanning several decades, specialized in film and television during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for roles in classic films, particularly in the series of Tarzan films. Voiced minor characters in various projects. Transitioned to television in the 1950s, appearing in series that showcased her versatility. Contributed to several soap operas, solidifying her presence in the daytime television landscape. Continued to act until retirement and remains a noted figure in the history of American cinema.

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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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Carla Lehmann

Canadian-English actress in film and TV
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1990 34 years ago — 73 years old

An accomplished actress with a career spanning several decades, she gained recognition primarily through performances in British films and television. Prominent roles include appearances in 'The Man from the Ministry' and 'The Missing Link.' Her work in the entertainment industry is notable for contributions during the mid-20th century, showcasing talent in both comedic and dramatic genres. Alongside acting, she appreciated various forms of artistic expression, enhancing her presence within the creative community.

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Billy Butterfield

Trumpet player and bandleader of swing era
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1988 37 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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