What Happened This Year 1997

People Who Died in 1997

Sydney Newman

Screenwriter & producer, co-created Doctor Who
Born
April 1st, 1917 107 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 80 years old

A Canadian screenwriter and producer, played a critical role in shaping television science fiction. Co-created the iconic series Doctor Who, which premiered in 1963 and became a significant part of British pop culture. Worked at the BBC, where involvement in other productions contributed to the evolution of televised drama. Newman's approach to storytelling and innovation in television narratives influenced future generations of writers and producers.

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Wally Bruner

Journalist and television host
Born
March 4th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 66 years old

Bruner was an American journalist and television host. He gained prominence with the television show "The Wally Bruner Show," which aired from 1964 to 1967. The program featured interviews with various celebrities and public figures, showcasing their stories and perspectives. Bruner's career included work in print journalism and broadcasting, making contributions to multiple news outlets throughout the years. His engaging style and ability to connect with guests distinguished his hosting approach.

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Dorothy Hill

Geologist and palaeontologist, fossil studies
Born
September 10th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 90 years old

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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Mildred Cleghorn

Native American educator and chairwoman
Born
December 11th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 87 years old

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.

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Hans Eysenck

Psychologist and theorist
Born
March 4th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent psychologist, expertise encompassed personality theory and intelligence. Developed the Eysenck Personality Inventory, a tool for assessing traits. Published extensively on the relationship between personality and behavior, garnering attention for critiques of mainstream psychology. Contributed to the field through the establishment of the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire and research on the genetic basis of behavior. Held positions at the University of London and authored over 30 books, including 'Dimensions of Personality'.

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K. Shivaram Karanth

Indian journalist and author specializing in literature
Born
October 10th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 95 years old

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.

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Eugene Merle Shoemaker

Geologist and astronomer, Lunar mapping
Born
April 28th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 69 years old

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.

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Kim Ki-young

South Korean Film Director
Born
October 10th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 78 years old

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.

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Rudolf Bahro

Philosopher and German politician
Born
November 18th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 62 years old

A philosopher and politician, contributed to political thought and activism in East Germany. Critiqued the socialist state and advocated for reforms within the communist system. Authored significant works on democracy and ecology, including 'Logik der Rettung' and 'Die Alternative', which explored alternatives to existing societal structures. Spent years in imprisonment for political dissent and later became involved in the ecological movement. Emigrated to West Germany, where continued to write and influence political discourse.

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