What Happened This Year 1947

People Who Died in 1947

Christian X of Denmark

Danish King during World War II
Born
September 26th, 1870 154 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1947 77 years ago — 76 years old

Christian X served as King of Denmark from 1912 until his death in 1947. His reign encompassed World War I and World War II, a period marked by significant political challenges. During the German occupation of Denmark in World War II, Christian X became a symbol of Danish resistance. The king famously rode unescorted through the streets of Copenhagen, demonstrating a commitment to his country. He appeared steadfast in the face of oppression, earning respect from the Danish people. His reign also saw efforts to modernize the Danish monarchy and engage in various cultural initiatives.

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Hans Biebow

German SS officer during WWII
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1947 77 years ago — 45 years old

Served as an SS officer during World War II. Involved in various administrative and operational roles within the Nazi regime. Managed the Jewish ghetto in Łódź, Poland, overseeing deportations and the implementation of Nazi policies concerning the Jewish population. Played a significant role in the administration of forced labor and exploitation of ghetto inhabitants until the dissolution of the ghetto.

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Willa Cather

American novelist and short story writer
Born
December 7th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1947 77 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1873, this individual was an influential American novelist, celebrated for contributions to literature focusing on life on the Great Plains. The written works often explored themes of identity, belonging, and the human experience. Major works include 'My Ántonia' and 'O Pioneers!', which depict the struggles and triumphs of settlers in Nebraska. The author received several accolades, including the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1923 for 'One of Ours', reflecting the deep connection to her home state and the rural American experience.

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Irving Fisher

Economist and statistician, Fisher Equation
Born
February 27th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1947 77 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of economics and statistics. Developed the Fisher Equation, establishing a relationship between nominal interest rates, real interest rates, and inflation. Advocated for the use of statistical methods in economics and wrote extensively on monetary theory, outlining principles that would influence later economic thought. Served as a professor at Yale University and engaged in various reform efforts during the early 20th century. His work laid a foundation for modern macroeconomics and influenced policies related to money supply and interest rates.

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Dorothea Binz

German SS officer during WWII
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1947 77 years ago — 27 years old

Served as an SS officer in Nazi Germany. Held the rank of camp leader at Ravensbrück concentration camp. Oversaw the mistreatment and execution of prisoners during the Holocaust. Captured after the war and tried for war crimes.

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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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Harry Gordon Selfridge

Businessman and founder of Selfridges
Born
January 11th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1947 77 years ago — 89 years old

An American-English businessman played a pivotal role in revolutionizing retail with the establishment of Selfridges in London. Founded in 1909, this department store introduced innovative marketing strategies, including an emphasis on customer experience and influential advertising techniques. The store became synonymous with luxury and sophistication, contributing to modern shopping culture. His concepts changed how retailers interacted with consumers, creating an enduring legacy in the retail industry. Selfridge's vision led to the expansion of the Selfridges brand and set new standards in product presentation and retail space design.

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Sukanta Bhattacharya

Indian poet and playwright
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1947 77 years ago — 21 years old

Born in 1926, this individual emerged as a significant figure in Bengali literature. During a short life, produced a substantial body of poetry and plays that reflected contemporary social issues. The work showcased a deep engagement with human emotions and struggles. The literary contributions helped shape modern Bengali poetry, often characterized by vivid imagery and innovative use of language. The impact on future generations of writers was profound, instilling a sense of realism within the realm of Bengali literature. The premature death at age 20 curtailed further contributions but left a lasting legacy in the literary community.

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Kalle Hakala

Finnish politician and parliament member
Born
March 18th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1947 77 years ago — 67 years old

Served as a member of the Finnish Parliament for the National Coalition Party. Participated actively in political discussions and legislative processes during a significant period in Finland's national development. Contributed to the formulation of policies impacting various sectors, including education and social welfare. Engaged in efforts to promote national interests and represent constituents' views in parliamentary sessions.

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