What Happened This Year 1997
People Who Died in 1997
Miguel Najdorf
A Polish-Argentinian chess player and theoretician contributed significantly to chess theory and literature. Najdorf migrated to Argentina in 1939 and became a leading figure in Argentinian chess. He won numerous national championships and was a prominent participant in international tournaments. His work in chess theory, particularly in the Sicilian Defense, influenced many players. Najdorf authored several books on chess, enriching the education of future generations of players.
Continue ReadingMagda Gabor
Born in Hungary, pursued a career in acting and entertainment, later moving to the United States. Gained recognition during the 1950s primarily through appearances on television and in films. Made guest appearances on popular shows including 'The Ed Sullivan Show' and 'The Match Game'. Engaged in various philanthropic activities and remained active in the entertainment industry for decades.
Continue ReadingBrandon Tartikoff
Played a significant role in shaping television programming in the 1980s and 1990s. Served as president of NBC from 1980 to 1991. Oversaw the development of iconic shows such as 'The Cosby Show', 'Miami Vice', and 'Cheers'. Led NBC to become the top-rated network during his tenure, achieving numerous Emmy Awards and critical acclaim for its programming.
Continue ReadingPeter Tali Coleman
Served as the 43rd Governor of American Samoa from 1978 to 1981. Played a significant role in local governance and worked on issues impacting the territory. Held various positions in the legal field before his governorship, contributing to the legislative process and policy development. Engaged in community service and legal advocacy throughout his career, influencing local policies and initiatives.
Continue ReadingKim Ki-young
A director, screenwriter, and producer originating from South Korea, contributed significantly to the film industry throughout the mid-20th century. Debuted in the 1950s, gained prominence with the film 'The Housemaid' in 1960, which became a critical success and is considered a landmark in Korean cinema. His works often explored themes of family, social conflict, and moral dilemmas. Continued to create films well into the 1990s, depicting intricate narratives and complex characters. Influenced many contemporary filmmakers both in South Korea and internationally.
Continue ReadingEugene Merle Shoemaker
This individual contributed significantly to the field of planetary science and geology. Played a key role in the Apollo program, particularly in mapping the Moon's surface. Co-founded the Planetary Studies Institute and conducted extensive research on impact craters. Helped establish the concept of planetary geology and its importance to understanding celestial bodies. This individual's research laid groundwork for later missions to other planets.
Continue ReadingK. Shivaram Karanth
A prominent journalist, author, and activist in India, contributed extensively to Kannada literature and social issues. Authored several novels, essays, and plays, with some works addressing the challenges faced by rural communities. Engaged in social activism, especially in advocating for the rights of farmers and the preservation of cultural heritage. Actively participated in the Indian independence movement.
Continue ReadingMildred Cleghorn
Chairwoman of the San Carlos Apache Tribal Council, played a significant role in advocating for Native American rights and education. Established programs to improve educational outcomes for Native American students. Contributed to cultural preservation efforts within the Apache community. Involved in various initiatives aimed at enhancing community welfare and self-governance.
Continue ReadingDorothy Hill
Significant contributions to geology and palaeontology took place during a career that spanned several decades. Work on fossil corals provided insights into ancient environments and climate changes. Pioneering research on the geology of the Great Barrier Reef highlighted the importance of coral reefs in understanding geological processes. Held the position of the first female professor at the University of Queensland, setting a precedent for women in science in Australia.
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