What Happened This Year 1947

People Who Died in 1947

Ernst Lubitsch

Film director known for romantic comedies
Born
January 29th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 55 years old

Born in Germany, a pioneering film director and producer significantly influenced the romantic comedy genre. Migrated to the United States in the 1920s, transitioning from silent films to talkies. Developed a distinctive style characterized by charm and sophistication, called the 'Lubitsch Touch.' Directed acclaimed films such as 'Ninotchka,' 'The Shop Around the Corner,' and 'To Be or Not to Be,' which showcased sharp wit and satirical elements. Helped shape Hollywood during a transformative era.

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Orval Overall

Baseball player and manager, 1908 World Series
Born
February 2nd, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 66 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1906 to 1913. Compiled a record of 88 wins and 55 losses. Played primarily for the Chicago Cubs and the Cincinnati Reds. Contributed to the Cubs' victory in the 1908 World Series. Managed in the minor leagues after retiring as a player.

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George II of Greece

King of Greece during two periods
Born
July 19th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 57 years old

Reigned as King of Greece during two separate periods, from 1922 to 1924 and from 1935 to 1947. Exiled due to the abolition of the monarchy in 1924, returned to power following a military coup in 1935. His reign included World War II, during which Greece faced occupation by Axis forces. After the war, the monarchy was restored, and governance continued until the eventual abolition of the monarchy in 1974, long after his death.

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John Gilbert Winant

American politician and governor
Born
February 23rd, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 58 years old

Served as the 60th Governor of New Hampshire from 1925 to 1927 and again from 1931 to 1933. Winant held significant roles in politics and public service during his career. Appointed as United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom during World War II, he played a crucial role in fostering U.S.-British relations during the conflict. Additionally, he contributed to the development of the Social Security system in the United States.

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Anna Hofman-Uddgren

Swedish actress and opera singer
Born
February 23rd, 1868 157 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1868, one of the early figures in Swedish film and theater. Gained recognition for performances in both the musical and operatic fields. Worked extensively in various theatrical productions and gained popularity in silent films. Also contributed to directing and shaping theatrical presentations in Sweden during her career.

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Thomas Inskip

English lawyer and Lord Chief Justice
Born
March 5th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 71 years old

Held the title of 1st Viscount Caldecote and served as the 8th Lord Chief Justice of England. Inskip had a noteworthy career in law and politics, contributing to the legal system in England. As a prominent figure in the judicial system, he played a significant role in various legal reforms during his tenure. He was active in legal circles and held various positions that influenced the judiciary and legislative processes in the country.

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R. I. Pocock

Zoologist and archaeologist with expertise
Born
March 4th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 84 years old

Contributed significantly to zoology and archaeology. Conducted extensive research on reptiles and mammals, publishing seminal works that advanced understanding in these fields. Served as curator at the Natural History Museum in London, overseeing important collections. Made significant discoveries in the study of fossil remains and ancient species, enhancing knowledge in evolutionary biology.

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Frederic Goudy

Type designer and Goudy typeface creator
Born
March 8th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent American type designer contributed significantly to typography in the early 20th century. Developed over 100 typefaces, with Goudy Old Style being one of the most recognized. Founded the Village Type Foundry, which allowed for the production of unique type designs. Engaged in teaching type design at various institutions and worked on type repair and printing.

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Miriam Benjamin

Inventor of the Gong-Function Tea Tray
Born
September 16th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 86 years old

An African-American educator and inventor, contributed significantly to the field of educational tools and household items. Invented the Gong-Function Tea Tray, a device designed to assist in serving tea and notify when refills were necessary. This invention showcased innovative thinking in both functionality and design. In addition to inventing, worked as a teacher, directly influencing education in the community and advocating for improved teaching methods and resources. Her endeavors also highlighted the intersection of creativity and practicality within daily life.

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