What Happened This Year 1997

People Who Died in 1997

Norris Bradbury

Physicist and soldier influential in weapons.
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1997 27 years ago — 88 years old

Served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Played a significant role in the Manhattan Project, contributing to the development of atomic weapons. Became a prominent physicist and served as the director of Los Alamos National Laboratory from 1945 to 1970. Focused on nuclear research and oversaw various projects, including advancements in weapons technology and nuclear policy. Also contributed to academic fields as a professor at several institutions.

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Eric Gairy

Grenadian politician, 1st Prime Minister
Born
February 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1997 27 years ago — 75 years old

A Grenadian politician served as the first Prime Minister of Grenada from 1974 to 1979. Initially a teacher and trade union leader, played a crucial role in Grenada's independence from Britain. His leadership was marked by significant political and social changes in the country. Deposed in a coup in 1979, later lived in exile in the United States before returning to Grenada in the 1980s, continuing political involvement until his death.

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John Kendrew

Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 24th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1997 27 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of biochemistry and crystallography. Conducted pioneering research on the structure of proteins, leading to advancements in understanding their functions. Played a critical role in the development of X-ray crystallography techniques. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1962 for work on the structure of proteins, especially myoglobin.

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Luigi Villoresi

Race car driver and Mille Miglia participant
Born
May 16th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1997 27 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Italy, a significant figure in early motorsport history, began racing in the 1930s. Competed in several Mille Miglia events, showcasing exceptional skill and speed in sports cars. Participated in Formula One during its inaugural seasons after World War II, driving for Maserati and Ferrari. Continued to make appearances in various racing events until retiring from professional racing in the 1950s.

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Diana

British Royal and Philanthropist
Born
July 1st, 1961 63 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1997 27 years ago — 36 years old

Born into an aristocratic family, a career as a member of the British royal family began upon marriage to the Prince of Wales in 1981. Established a reputation for charity work, particularly in areas such as HIV/AIDS awareness and landmine clearance. The 1995 interview with the BBC’s Martin Bashir became one of the most controversial moments in royal history. A significant figure in raising the profile of social issues, often characterized by compassion and approachability. Her death in a car accident in 1997 generated a global outpouring of grief.

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Dodi Fayed

Film producer and partner of Diana
Born
April 15th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1997 27 years ago — 42 years old

Born in Egypt, this film producer was involved in the production of several films during the 1980s and 1990s. He produced the romantic drama 'Chariots of Fire' which won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Fayed's connection to British royalty came through his relationship with Diana, Princess of Wales, in the summer of 1997, culminating in their tragic deaths in a car accident in Paris in August of that year. His high-profile relationship with Diana garnered significant media attention and public interest.

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Zoltán Czibor

Hungarian footballer and 1954 World Cup player
Born
August 23rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1997 27 years ago — 68 years old

A footballer, had a notable career primarily as a winger. Played for clubs such as Budapest Honvéd and FC Barcelona. Participated in the 1954 FIFA World Cup, where the team reached the final. Achieved recognition for exceptional skills and contributions to the sport during the 1950s.

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Viktor Frankl

Neurologist and psychiatrist, logotherapy
Born
March 26th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1997 27 years ago — 92 years old

Austrian neurologist and psychiatrist developed the psychological approach known as logotherapy. This method focuses on finding meaning in life, particularly in the context of suffering. Personal experiences as a Holocaust survivor influenced theories and writings. Authored 'Man's Search for Meaning', detailing experiences in concentration camps and the importance of purpose in life. The work has been translated into multiple languages and remains influential in psychology and philosophy.

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Dharamvir Bharati

Indian author and playwright
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1997 27 years ago — 71 years old

An influential figure in Hindi literature, this individual contributed significantly to poetry, theater, and novels. The work 'Andha Yug' remains a cornerstone of modern Indian drama, exploring themes of war and morality. As an editor for the renowned magazine 'Dharmayug', played a critical role in promoting literary advancements in post-independence India. The individual also wrote numerous celebrated poems, which reflected deep social and philosophical insights.

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