What Happened This Year 1917

Born in 1917

Margaret Taylor-Burroughs

Painter & author, DuSable Museum co-founder
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2010 14 years ago — 93 years old

An American painter and author, contributed significantly to the arts and education. Co-founded the DuSable Museum of African American History in Chicago, which focuses on African American culture and history. Created works that reflected the African American experience and focused on promoting cultural awareness. Served as a teacher and mentor, influencing future generations of artists and scholars.

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Curtis Bill Pepper

Journalist and author of several works
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2014 10 years ago — 97 years old

A journalist and author with a prolific career, contributed to various publications, including the New York Herald Tribune and Time magazine. Wrote several books, often focusing on American culture and history. Worked extensively as a war correspondent during conflicts in Korea and Vietnam. Provided insightful commentary on issues affecting society during his career.

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Ahmad Sayyed Javadi

Iranian lawyer and Minister of Interior
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2013 11 years ago — 96 years old

Served as the Iranian Minister of Interior, overseeing governmental functions related to internal security and civil matters. Contributed to various legislative reforms during tenure in the government. Engaged in legal practices prior to entering politics, focusing on civil law and public administration.

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Hugh Falkus

Pilot and author of aviation works
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1996 28 years ago — 79 years old

An aviation enthusiast with a career as a pilot and a respected author, Falkus contributed significantly to aviation literature. His works primarily focused on flying techniques and experiences, appealing to both amateur and professional pilots. Falkus also served in World War II as a pilot, which shaped his later writing and teaching. Passion for aviation led to the publication of several books, encouraging new generations to engage with flying. He was active in promoting aviation in the post-war era.

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Red Hickey

American football coach and player
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2006 18 years ago — 89 years old

A former American football player and later coach, achieved prominence in the NFL. Played as a quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers and was instrumental in the team’s early years. Transitioned into coaching, leading the 49ers and later the Atlanta Falcons. Developed the shotgun formation, an innovative offensive strategy that changed the game. Coached during a period of growth for professional football.

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Kim Won-gyun

North Korean composer and politician
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2002 22 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent composer, engaged in the development of North Korean music, contributed significantly to the country's cultural scene. Played a major role in state-sponsored music events and served as a member of the Supreme People's Assembly, influencing the political and cultural landscape. His compositions often reflected the themes of patriotism and the revolutionary spirit of North Korea, aligning with the state's ideologies. Developed a distinct style that incorporated traditional Korean elements, merging them with contemporary musical forms, to create a unique sound that resonated within North Korean society.

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David McClelland

Psychologist, established need theory
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1998 26 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of psychology with the development of the need for achievement theory. Focused on how individual differences in motivation affect performance. Served as a professor at Harvard University, influencing the study of personality and motivation. Authored several influential books and articles, advancing the understanding of human behavior and motivation in various contexts, including education and the workplace.

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Fay Kanin

Screenwriter and producer of 'The Bad Seed'
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2013 11 years ago — 96 years old

A screenwriter and producer, contributed significantly to film and television during a career spanning several decades. Developed the screenplay for 'The Bad Seed', which became a classic psychological thriller. Served as the president of the Writers Guild of America, cementing influence in the industry. Wrote and produced numerous teleplays, including adaptations of literary works, showcasing talent in storytelling and character development.

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Waldemar von Gazen

German general and lawyer
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 97 years old

Served as a general in the German Army, engaging in military strategy and operations. Had a prominent legal career, contributing to military law and regulations. Participated in various conflicts during his tenure and provided legal oversight in military situations. Involved in post-war military restructuring.

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