What Happened This Year 1997

People Who Died in 1997

Doc Cheatham

Jazz trumpeter and bandleader
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1997 27 years ago — 92 years old

An American jazz trumpeter and bandleader, recognized for contributions to the New Orleans jazz scene. Gained significant prominence during the 1930s and performed with various jazz legends. In later years, led his own bands and appeared in numerous jazz festivals. Cheatham's style blended traditional jazz with innovative elements, attracting both aficionados and new listeners. Continued to perform well into his 80s, showcasing remarkable longevity in the music industry.

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Dennis James

Game show host and television actor
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1997 27 years ago — 80 years old

Started a career in entertainment as a radio announcer before transitioning to television. Hosted several significant game shows, particularly 'The Price Is Right', contributing to the genre's popularity. Appeared in various television series and films, showcasing versatility in both hosting and acting. Over a lengthy career, became a familiar face on American television, especially during the 1950s and 1960s. Continued to influence the television industry until retirement and death in 1997.

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Ronnie Lane

English bass player and songwriter
Born
April 1st, 1946 78 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1997 27 years ago — 51 years old

A prominent English bass player and songwriter, this individual gained recognition as a founding member of the Small Faces and later the Faces. Lane co-wrote several hits, contributing to the success of both bands in the 1960s and 1970s. His distinctive bass playing and songwriting significantly influenced the rock genre. After leaving the Faces, he pursued a solo career and produced several albums, showcasing his talents beyond performance. He also became involved in charity work, particularly focusing on multiple sclerosis awareness.

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Karen Wetterhahn

Chemist known for mercury research
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
June 8th, 1997 27 years ago — 49 years old

A chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the study of toxicology and mercury exposure. Served as a professor at Dartmouth College where research focused on the interactions of heavy metals with biological systems. Published numerous articles in scientific journals and received recognition for advancements in understanding the effects of toxic substances. Co-authored the book 'Chemical Exposure and Chemical Safety'. Notably, an accident in the laboratory during an experiment with dimethylmercury led to her death, raising awareness about laboratory safety standards and chemical hazards.

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Stanley Knowles

Canadian politician and academic leader
Born
June 18th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1997 27 years ago — 88 years old

An academic and politician, this individual served as a Member of Parliament in Canada for more than two decades. Representing the NDP, he became a prominent figure in Canadian politics. His tenure included efforts to advance social welfare policy and drive discussions around national healthcare. Known for his commitment to education, he also held a significant role within the academic community, contributing to educational reforms and the development of university programs.

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Bulat Okudzhava

Russian singer-songwriter and poet
Born
May 9th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1997 27 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in the Soviet cultural scene, contributed to the genre of bard music, merging poetry and song. Authored numerous songs that reflected the struggles and aspirations of everyday life. Wrote poetry that was often critical of the socio-political climate. Gained recognition for performing in intimate settings, which challenged the state-controlled music industry. Associated with the underground arts movement, influencing future generations of performers and songwriters.

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Nguyen Manh Tuong

Vietnamese lawyer and academic
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1997 27 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent legal scholar and educator, contributed significantly to the development of legal education in Vietnam. Played a critical role in the establishment of the Vietnam National University in Hanoi, focusing on legal studies. Authored several influential texts on Vietnamese law, addressing the needs of a changing society. Advocated for legal reforms to align with international standards and fostered a generation of legal professionals through teaching and mentorship.

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Richard Jaeckel

American actor in film and television
Born
October 10th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1997 27 years ago — 70 years old

Active in the entertainment industry from the mid-1940s, an actor appeared in numerous films and television series. Notable roles included performances in 'The Dirty Dozen' and 'Sometimes a Great Notion.' Television appearances included significant roles in series such as 'Combat!' and 'The Bionic Woman.' Throughout a long career, gained recognition for versatility in various genres and held a prominent place in the film landscape.

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Lev Kopelev

Ukrainian-German author and academic
Born
April 9th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1997 27 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Ukraine, an author and academic focused on the consequences of totalitarian regimes. His literary works often reflect personal experiences during World War II and the Soviet era. Emigrated to Germany in the 1970s, engaging in education and cultural discussions. Written extensively on themes of freedom and the human condition, contributing to both literary and academic fields.

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