What Happened This Year 1997

People Who Died in 1997

Jacques Canetti

French music executive and talent agent
Born
May 30th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 88 years old

A music executive and talent agent, played a significant role in promoting and discovering numerous artists in the French music scene. Established the influential label, Les Disques de la Pléiade. Managed and represented a variety of notable singers, including the renowned Edith Piaf. Contributed to the evolution of French music during the mid-20th century through collaborations and strategic partnerships.

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Emily Hahn

Journalist and author of multiple works
Born
January 14th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1904, this individual was a prominent American journalist and author. Active in the early to mid-20th century, work included notable contributions to publications such as The New Yorker. The writing encompassed a range of subjects, including personal experiences in China and other exotic locations. Authored several books, blending travel writing with personal narrative. This individual’s eclectic career also involved various fields including animals, food, and the arts, showcasing versatility through different forms of storytelling. The talent in capturing experiences led to a lasting impression on literary journalism.

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Diosdado Macapagal

Filipino lawyer, 9th President of the Philippines
Born
September 28th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 87 years old

A lawyer and politician, served as the 9th President of the Philippines from 1961 to 1965. Focused on agricultural reform and social justice during the presidency. Implemented the Land Tenure Administration and promoted the Filipino First Policy, which aimed to prioritize Filipino businesses. Advocated for the rights of farmers and the impoverished, supporting various legislation to improve living conditions. Engaged in significant foreign policy discussions, particularly in the context of Southeast Asia and American relations.

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Heikki Savolainen

Finnish gymnast and physician
Born
September 28th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 90 years old

This individual was a prominent gymnast and physician from Finland. His athletic career included participation in the Olympic Games, contributing to Finland's legacy in gymnastics. In addition to achievements in sports, a successful medical career was pursued, leading to advancements in healthcare practices within the country. The combination of sports and medicine defined a significant portion of professional life.

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Yorozuya Kinnosuke

Kabuki actor and director
Born
November 20th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure in Japanese kabuki theater, engaged in both acting and directing. Contributed significantly to the art form's contemporary relevance, performing in numerous kabuki plays and expanding its audience. Directed and starred in various productions, demonstrating versatility and dedication to theater. Established a legacy within the kabuki community and trained many aspiring actors.

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Tamara Tyshkevich

Belarusian shot putter and Olympian
Born
March 31st, 1931 93 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1931, a Belarusian shot putter achieved significant success in track and field. Competed at the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne, securing a bronze medal in shot put. Dominated the Soviet sports scene during the 1950s and 1960s, setting multiple national records and representing the Soviet Union in various international competitions.

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Daniil Shafran

Renowned Russian cellist
Born
January 13th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent cellist, recognized for exceptional contributions to classical music. Started professional career in 1940 and gained attention through performances in the Soviet Union. Collaborated with distinguished orchestras and conductors, showcasing talent in various international festivals. Notable for recordings that highlight mastery of the cello and interpretation of classical works. Also involved in music education, influencing future generations of cellists.

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Brandon Tartikoff

Television producer and executive
Born
January 13th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 48 years old

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.

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Bertrand Goldberg

Architect, designer of Marina City
Born
July 17th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 84 years old

An American architect specialized in innovative urban designs and high-rise structures. Marina City in Chicago, featuring iconic cylindrical towers, became a hallmark of modern architecture. Goldberg contributed to the development of community-focused living spaces, emphasizing both aesthetics and functionality. His architectural vision embraced the integration of nature and urban environments, and he often experimented with concrete as a building material. The architect's work extended beyond iconic buildings, influencing city planning and residential design during a transformative period in American architecture.

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