What Happened This Year 1917

Born in 1917

José Ber Gelbard

Argentinian politician and activist
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1977 47 years ago — 60 years old

Engaged in political life in Argentina, participated in labor activism and served as Minister of Economy. Played a significant role during the government of Juan Domingo Perón in the 1970s. Advocated for worker's rights and economic reforms. Exiled after the military coup in 1976 and lived in several countries until returning to Argentina.

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Ion Rațiu

Romanian journalist and politician
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2000 25 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent Romanian journalist and politician, played a significant role in political life during the communist regime. Worked in exile, advocating for democracy and human rights. Involved with various opposition movements aimed at reforming Romanian politics. Returned to Romania after the fall of communism and was elected a member of the Romanian Parliament, where efforts focused on promoting democratic principles. Contributed to establishing a democratic framework in the country.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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