What Happened This Year 1947

People Who Died in 1947

Stanley Baldwin

British Prime Minister and politician
Born
August 3rd, 1867 157 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1947 77 years ago — 80 years old

Served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom three times during the early 20th century. Played a pivotal role in the Conservatives' return to power after World War I. His tenure included significant reforms, including the introduction of the Parliament Act of 1911 which limited the power of the House of Lords. Oversaw government operations during the 1926 General Strike and advocated for compromise and resolution. His leadership style emphasized moderation, appealing to both the working and middle classes. Contributed to the shaping of post-war Britain.

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Arthur Machen

Welsh journalist and author of horror fiction
Born
1863 162 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1947 77 years ago — 84 years old

A Welsh journalist and author, Machen became notable for contributions to horror literature. His early works included journalism, but he achieved prominence with supernatural fiction. The novella 'The Great God Pan' introduced themes of the unknown and explored the grotesque. His writing often drew upon folklore and mysticism, capturing the imagination of readers. Throughout his career, Machen's unique style and thematic interests influenced the horror genre, marking him as a pivotal figure in early 20th-century literature. His legacy continued to grow posthumously, securing a place in the canon of weird fiction.

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Crawford Vaughan

Australian politician, 27th Premier
Born
July 14th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1947 77 years ago — 73 years old

Served as the 27th Premier of South Australia from 1930 to 1933. Held various positions in government including Minister for Education and Minister for Industry. Contributed to the development of public education policies and worked towards improving infrastructure in the state. Engaged in active politics throughout the early to mid-20th century, shaping the legislative landscape of South Australia.

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Christos Tsigiridis

Greek engineer and inventor
Born
1877 148 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1947 77 years ago — 70 years old

An engineer from Greece, made significant contributions to the field of engineering. Played a crucial role in the development of innovative technologies during the early to mid-20th century. Engaged in various engineering projects that enhanced infrastructure and industrial processes. Contributed to research in engineering disciplines and published findings that influenced future generations of engineers.

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Charles Gondouin

Rugby player and tug of war competitor
Born
July 21st, 1875 149 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1947 77 years ago — 72 years old

Competed in rugby and tug of war at an elite level. Represented France in rugby union and was part of the national side during various championships. Achieved recognition in tug of war competitions, highlighting versatility in sports. Played a significant role in the development of both sports in France during the early 20th century.

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Gaspar G. Bacon

American lawyer and politician
Born
1886 139 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1947 77 years ago — 61 years old

Served as the 51st Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts between 1925 and 1929. Held several public offices, including member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives and District Attorney for Essex County. Involved in various legal and political initiatives during tenure, contributing to the development of state policies.

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Victor Emmanuel III of Italy

King of Italy during World War I
Born
November 11th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1947 77 years ago — 78 years old

Reigned as King of Italy from 1900 to 1946. Oversaw Italy during World War I and faced significant political challenges, including the rise of Fascism and the abdication of his throne after World War II. The reign ended with the establishment of the Italian Republic in 1946. After abdication, lived in exile in Egypt until death in 1947.

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Han van Meegeren

Painter and art forger
Born
October 10th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1947 77 years ago — 58 years old

Born in the Netherlands, a painter and art forger achieved notoriety during the early to mid-20th century. Initially trained in traditional painting, later shifted focus to forgery. Created a series of forgeries that were passed off as original works by the Dutch master Johannes Vermeer. One of the most significant forgeries, 'Christ and the Woman of Samaria,' led to a high-profile court case after its sale to a Nazi officer. Conviction in the art world followed, marking a controversial chapter in art history. Despite the scandal, continued to influence discussions on authenticity in art.

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Alfred North Whitehead

Mathematician and philosopher of science
Born
February 15th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1947 77 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and philosophy. Co-authored the seminal work 'Principia Mathematica' with Bertrand Russell, which laid foundational aspects of mathematical logic. Developed process philosophy, emphasizing the processual nature of reality and the interconnectivity of all entities. Served in various academic roles, including at Harvard University, influencing future generations of scholars.

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