What Happened This Year 1917

Born in 1917

Louis-Philippe de Grandpré

Canadian lawyer and jurist
Born
February 6th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 91 years old

Practiced law in Quebec, serving as a significant figure in the Canadian legal landscape. Appointed to the Superior Court of Quebec in 1968, contributed to the development of legal principles in the province. Also served as a judge on the Quebec Court of Appeal, influencing numerous legal decisions until retirement. Engaged in various committees to reform and enhance the judicial system in Canada. Advocate for legal education and increased access to justice.

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Zsa Zsa Gabor

Actress and socialite in Hollywood
Born
February 6th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2016 8 years ago — 99 years old

Born in Hungary and later relocating to America, Gabor became a prominent actress and socialite. She gained fame in the 1950s and 1960s through a series of film roles and television appearances. Some of her notable films include 'Moulin Rouge' and 'Queen of Outer Space'. Gabor also became a fixture in Hollywood social scenes and was widely recognized for her glamorous lifestyle and multiple marriages.

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Sidney Sheldon

Author and screenwriter of thrillers
Born
February 11th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2007 18 years ago — 89 years old

An author and screenwriter achieved widespread recognition through contributions to literature and film. Wrote multiple best-selling novels, including 'Master of the Game' and 'The Other Side of Midnight'. Developed successful television series such as 'I Dream of Jeannie' and 'Hart to Hart'. Sheldon adapted storytelling techniques that blended suspense and drama, gaining a significant readership worldwide.

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Al Cervi

Basketball player and coach with Syracuse
Born
February 12th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 92 years old

Played professional basketball in the 1940s, primarily for the Syracuse Nationals in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Transitioned to coaching after retirement, serving as head coach for the Syracuse Nationals and later for the Buffalo Braves. Achieved success with the Nationals, leading the team to a championship in 1955. Recognized for contributions both as a player and coach in basketball.

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Dom DiMaggio

Baseball player and All-Star center fielder
Born
February 12th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2009 15 years ago — 92 years old

Played professional baseball as a center fielder from 1939 to 1953. Spent the majority of his career with the Boston Red Sox. Achieved All-Star status three times and was a key contributor to the team's success during his tenure. After retirement, contributed to baseball as a coach and front office executive.

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Herbert A. Hauptman

Mathematician, Nobel Prize winner
Born
February 14th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2011 13 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed to the field of mathematics with significant work in the area of computational methods for crystallography. Hauptman co-developed an innovative mathematical framework facilitating the determination of crystal structures from X-ray diffraction data. His research provided vital tools for understanding molecular structures, which had broad implications for chemistry and biology. Served as a professor at the State University of New York at Buffalo and became a leading figure in mathematical sciences.

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Carson McCullers

American novelist and playwright
Born
February 19th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1967 57 years ago — 50 years old

A significant figure in American literature, this individual wrote novels, short stories, plays, and essays, contributing to the Southern Gothic genre. Major works include the novel 'The Heart is a Lonely Hunter' (1940) which explores themes of isolation and social injustice. Additionally, 'Member of the Wedding' (1946) examined adolescent identity. The playwright's works were characterized by deep emotional insight.

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Lucille Bremer

Actress and dancer, starred in musicals
Born
February 21st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1996 28 years ago — 79 years old

An American actress and dancer achieved recognition during the 1940s, particularly for performances in musical films. Featured prominently in the 1943 film 'Cover Girl' alongside Gene Kelly, showcased considerable talent in both dance and acting. Other significant works included roles in 'Yolanda and the Thief' and 'Meet Me in St. Louis'. Transitioned to television later in her career, contributing to various shows. In addition to acting, pursued a career in dance, showcasing skills on stage and screen.

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Tadd Dameron

Pianist and composer, jazz innovator
Born
February 21st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1917, Dameron emerged as an influential figure in the jazz music scene. He contributed significantly to the development of bebop and created memorable compositions that showcased his innovative style. His work included collaborations with prominent artists, helping to shape the dynamics of jazz performances. Dameron also served as a bandleader, leading ensembles that featured emerging talents of the time. He was notably associated with the bebop movement and was instrumental in composing many jazz standards. His compositions remain staples in jazz repertoire, reflecting the intricate harmonic progressions and lyrical melodies characteristic of his style.

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