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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Darshan Singh Canadian

Trade union leader and activist
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1986 38 years ago — 69 years old

An Indian-Canadian trade union leader and activist, played a pivotal role in advocating for workers' rights and labor movements. Focused on the conditions of immigrant workers and addressed issues related to labor laws. Contributed to the formation of multiple labor organizations and made strides in securing better working conditions. Actively engaged in community organizing and mobilization efforts in Canada, particularly within immigrant communities.

Continue Reading

Guillermo González Camarena

Mexican engineer and inventor of color TV
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1965 59 years ago — 48 years old

An engineer developed innovations in television technology. Pioneered the first color television transmission system. The invention allowed for the broader use of color in broadcast television, influencing how viewers experienced media. Contributed to various technical advancements in the field, including patents related to color television.

Continue Reading

John Anderson Jr.

Politician and Governor of Kansas
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2014 10 years ago — 97 years old

Served as the 36th Governor of Kansas from 1975 to 1979. Practiced law and was active in politics, focusing on issues relevant to the state. Held various positions in the Kansas government and was involved in multiple legislative initiatives during his tenure. After leaving office, continued to engage in public service and community activities, significantly contributing to the political landscape of Kansas.

Continue Reading

Reed Crandall

American illustrator and comic artist
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1982 42 years ago — 65 years old

An American illustrator gained recognition for work in comic books and magazine illustrations. Contributed art to numerous publications including 'Eerie' and 'Creepy' magazines in the horror and fantasy genres. Collaborated with various comic writers and played a significant role in popularizing graphic storytelling during the mid-20th century. His distinctive style influenced subsequent generations of comic artists.

Continue Reading

Jérôme Louis Heldring

Dutch journalist and author
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
April 27th, 2013 11 years ago — 96 years old

Heldring had a significant career in journalism and literature. He served as the editor-in-chief of the Dutch magazine 'Elsevier' for many years, shaping public discourse in the Netherlands. Heldring authored several books, contributing to discussions on politics, society, and culture. His work often reflected a deep engagement with contemporary issues and the evolving landscape of Dutch society.

Continue Reading

Al Monchak

Baseball player and coach for the Pirates
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2015 9 years ago — 98 years old

Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder, debuting in 1946 with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Continued with the Pirates until 1949. Transitioned into coaching and managed several minor league teams. Contributed to player development and scouting within the organization. Served in various roles over decades, influencing the next generation of players.

Continue Reading