1916 1918

What Happened This Year 1917

All Events 94 Births 447 Deaths 107

Born in 1917

Larry O'Brien

57th United States Postmaster General

Born

1917 109 years ago

Died

September 28th, 1990 35 years ago — 73 years old

Served as the 57th Postmaster General of the United States from 1965 to 1969. Held a prominent role in the Democratic Party and played a significant part in campaigns during the 1960s. Worked on the Johnson administration's postal policy and contributed to legislative initiatives. After leaving office, engaged in various business ventures and continued to influence American politics.

Sophie Masloff

Civil servant and Mayor of Pittsburgh

Born

1917 109 years ago

Died

August 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 97 years old

Served as the 56th Mayor of Pittsburgh from 1988 to 1994. Held various positions in municipal government, including City Council President. Focused on community development and local governance during time in office. Involved in numerous civic and community organizations and worked to enhance the city's infrastructure and quality of life for residents.

Harrison Begay

American painter of Navajo heritage

Born

1917 109 years ago

Died

August 18th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

A painter of Navajo heritage, this artist created works that reflect Indigenous culture and traditions. Using oils and watercolors, the artist captured landscapes, ceremonies, and daily life of the Navajo people. His artwork has been showcased in exhibitions across the United States, contributing to the visibility of Native American art. As a respected member of the Navajo Nation, the artist played a vital role in promoting Navajo culture through various art forms.

Billy Butterfield

Trumpet player and bandleader of swing era

Born

1917 109 years ago

Died

March 18th, 1988 37 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.

Abdel Rahman Badawi

Egyptian philosopher and poet

Born

1917 109 years ago

Died

July 25th, 2002 23 years ago — 85 years old

Contributed significantly to philosophy and literature during the 20th century. Focused on existentialism and Arabic philosophy. Authored numerous works that explored the intersections of philosophy, poetry, and culture. Attempted to integrate Western philosophical traditions with Arabic thought. Made contributions to the understanding of ethics and philosophy of language in the Arab world.

Sir Lenox Hewitt

Australian public servant and administrator

Born

1917 109 years ago

Died

February 28th, 2020 5 years ago — 103 years old

Served as a significant public servant in Australia, holding various high-profile positions in government. Played a crucial role in the administration and development of policies that shaped the public sector. Contributed to numerous reforms aimed at improving government functionality and public service delivery. Held the position of Secretary of the Department of Defence, influencing key decisions during critical periods of Australia's history. His tenure included extensive involvement with strategic defence reviews and international relations.