What Happened This Year 1947

People Who Died in 1947

Frederick Gowland Hopkins

Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 20th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1947 77 years ago — 85 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of biochemistry through discoveries relating to vitamins and their role in nutrition. Conducted pioneering research on the biochemical processes of living organisms. Served as a professor at the University of Cambridge for many years. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1929 alongside Christiaan Eijkman for work on the role of vitamins in metabolism.

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Zhang Lingfu

Chinese general during WWII
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1947 77 years ago — 44 years old

A general in the National Revolutionary Army, influential during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Commanded forces in several key engagements against Japanese invaders. Led troops in the Battle of the Central Plain, gaining recognition for strategic capabilities. Also involved in military operations during the Chinese Civil War before passing away in 1947.

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George Forbes

New Zealand Prime Minister
Born
March 12th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1947 77 years ago — 78 years old

Served as the 22nd Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1930 to 1935. As a member of the Reform Party, held various ministerial positions prior to becoming Prime Minister, including Minister of Finance. Implemented key policies during the Great Depression to stabilize the economy. After leaving office, remained active in politics and served in various capacities, including the role of a prominent public figure in New Zealand.

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Hal Chase

Baseball player and manager
Born
February 13th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1947 77 years ago — 64 years old

Played as a first baseman for teams including the Chicago White Sox and the New York Yankees. Managed the New York Yankees and the Newark Bears, contributing to the development of the teams. Involved in a major gambling scandal that influenced the game's integrity and rules. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982, recognizing professional contributions to baseball.

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Philipp Lenard

Physicist, Nobel Prize winner in Physics
Born
June 7th, 1862 162 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1947 77 years ago — 84 years old

A Slovak-German physicist contributed significantly to the field of physics with a focus on cathode rays. Conducted important experiments and formulated theories on the properties of electrons and their behavior in various mediums. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1905 for work on cathode rays and their application in demonstrating the existence of subatomic particles. Held academic positions at various institutions and influenced the trajectory of experimental physics during the early 20th century.

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Charles-Ferdinand Ramuz

Swiss author and poet with notable works
Born
September 24th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1947 77 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent Swiss author and poet, this individual contributed significantly to French-language literature in Switzerland. Originating in the late 19th century, a strong engagement with themes surrounding the Swiss landscape and rural life is evident in various writings. The works often explore the intersection of nature and human experience, reflecting deep emotional and cultural connections. Collaborations with composers and participation in the Swiss literary scene also marked a significant part of the career. Later writings incorporated existential themes, forging a unique literary voice. The artistic contributions helped shape modern Swiss literature and provided a bridge between traditional and contemporary thought.

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Ed Konetchy

Baseball player and manager; World Series champion
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1947 77 years ago — 62 years old

Played as a first baseman in Major League Baseball. Teams included the St. Louis Cardinals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Chicago Cubs. Participated in the 1926 World Series, contributing to the Cardinals' victory. Later transitioned to a managerial role and led minor league teams, honing the skills of emerging players. His career spanned over a decade, during which he displayed consistent performance and leadership on and off the field.

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August Eigruber

Austrian-German politician and leader
Born
April 16th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1947 77 years ago — 40 years old

Born in 1907, August Eigruber became a prominent politician in Austria during the mid-20th century. Eigruber was elected as the governor of Upper Austria from 1956 until 1964. During this time, Eigruber played a significant role in the post-World War II reconstruction of the region. His political career included affiliations with various political movements and contributions to local governance, focusing on economic development and social issues. Eigruber's tenure is marked by efforts to stabilize and modernize Upper Austria after the war, navigating the complexities of political alliances and regional challenges.

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Georg von Trapp

Austrian naval captain and family patriarch
Born
1880 145 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1947 77 years ago — 67 years old

Served as a naval captain in the Austro-Hungarian Navy during World War I. After the war, became the head of the von Trapp family, which gained international fame through their musical talent. The family toured Europe and the United States, performing folk songs. Later, the story of the family was adapted into the popular musical 'The Sound of Music', which immortalized their experiences escaping Austria during World War II.

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