What Happened This Year 1917

Born in 1917

Ernesto Alonso

Mexican actor known for telenovelas
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2007 17 years ago — 90 years old

Active in the entertainment industry for several decades, became one of the most recognized figures in Mexican television. Achieved significant fame as a leading actor in telenovelas, with his career spanning from the 1940s to the 2000s. Also worked as a director and producer, contributing to various productions, particularly in the telenovela genre. Continuously starred in many successful series and held a prominent presence in the industry until passing in 2007.

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Henry Morgenthau III

Author and television producer
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
July 10th, 2018 6 years ago — 101 years old

An author and television producer, contributed to literature and media through various works. Played a significant role in producing influential television programs, drawing on personal experiences and historical context. Wrote multiple books focusing on themes relating to American history and the Jewish experience. Expanded the narrative on family legacy and its implications in modern society.

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Pál Maléter

Hungarian general and politician
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1958 66 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent figure in Hungary's military and political landscape. Served as the Minister of Defence during the Hungarian Revolution of 1956. Maléter played a critical role in the organization and execution of military strategy during the uprising against Soviet influence. Following the suppression of the revolution, he was captured by Soviet forces and later executed in 1958. His leadership during this tumultuous period is noted as a significant moment in Hungary's resistance against oppression.

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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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Dik Browne

Cartoonist, creator of Hagar the Horrible
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1989 35 years ago — 72 years old

A cartoonist contributed significantly to the comic strip medium. Created the comic strip 'Hagar the Horrible,' which debuted in 1973. The strip featured the humorous misadventures of a Viking and his family. Worked on various other projects but achieved lasting recognition primarily through 'Hagar the Horrible.'

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Murry Wilson

Songwriter and manager of The Beach Boys
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1973 51 years ago — 56 years old

A songwriter, producer, and manager, significantly influenced the music of the early 1960s. Managed and supported the successful career of The Beach Boys, a band acclaimed for their harmonies and innovative sound. Contributed to the band's lyrical themes centered around youth and surf culture. Involved in the production of many of their early hits, fostering their rise to fame.

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Burr Tillstrom

Puppeteer and creator of Kukla & Ollie
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1985 39 years ago — 68 years old

An American puppeteer, active in television and theatre, created the beloved children's series 'Kukla, Fran and Ollie'. The show, which debuted in 1947, featured a cast of puppets, led by Kukla and Ollie, and became a staple of early television, blending entertainment with improvisational humor. Tillstrom's approach influenced future puppetry and children's programming. He contributed to the art form through performances and often directed his own material. Tillstrom's work earned him recognition in the world of entertainment, showcasing innovative puppetry techniques and storylines that captured audiences.

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Ty LaForest

Baseball player; MLB All-Star
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1947 77 years ago — 30 years old

LaForest played as a catcher in Major League Baseball. His career spanned parts of seven seasons from 1935 to 1942. Teams included the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago Cubs. He participated in the 1941 All-Star Game while playing for the Cubs. After his playing days, LaForest took on coaching roles, contributing to the development of future players.

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Jane Bowles

American author and playwright
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1973 51 years ago — 56 years old

This individual was an American author and playwright who contributed to the literary world in the mid-20th century. Bowles is recognized for her unique style and exploration of complex themes in her works. The novel 'Two Serious Ladies' gained attention for its unconventional narrative and rich character development. In addition, Bowles penned several plays that showcased her talent for dialogue and human interaction. Bowles's works often reflected her own experiences and emotional depth, showcasing her prowess as a writer.

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