What Happened This Year 1997

People Who Died in 1997

Shoichi Yokoi

Japanese World War II soldier
Born
March 31st, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 82 years old

A sergeant in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II, served in the Battle of Guam. Following the end of the war, remained hidden in the jungles of Guam for 28 years, unaware of Japan's surrender. Discovered by locals in 1972, returned to Japan, where his story garnered significant media attention.

Continue Reading

Frank Robert Miller

Canadian Air Marshal and politician
Born
April 30th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1908, served as a Canadian Air Force officer and later became a prominent political figure. Played a key role during his tenure in the military, contributing to national defense strategies. Transitioned into politics, serving as a member of the House of Commons. Engaged in various initiatives to promote the interests of the Canadian military and defense policies.

Continue Reading

Brian Glover

English wrestler and actor in 'Kes'
Born
April 2nd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 63 years old

Originated as a professional wrestler, gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. Transitioned to acting, achieving recognition for performances in film and television. Featured in the film 'Kes' which gained critical acclaim. Appeared in British television series such as 'The Sweeney' and 'The Professionals'. Inspired many through his work in both wrestling and acting, leaving a lasting legacy in both fields.

Continue Reading

Harlow Rothert

Shot Putter and Lawyer
Born
April 1st, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 89 years old

Competed in shot put and became a prominent athlete in American track and field. Participated in the 1932 Summer Olympics held in Los Angeles, representing the United States. Had a successful career in law after retiring from athletics. Engaged in academic pursuits that contributed to understanding sports law and governance, influencing future generations of athletes and legal practitioners.

Continue Reading

Tamara Tyshkevich

Belarusian shot putter and Olympian
Born
March 31st, 1931 94 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.

Continue Reading

Reginald Victor Jones

British physicist and military intelligence expert
Born
September 29th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed significantly to military intelligence and the development of scientific technology during World War II. Jones specialized in the application of physics to military problems, particularly in analyzing enemy technology and weapons. His work led to advancements in radar and electronic warfare. He authored notable publications and served in various roles that emphasized the importance of scientific expertise in military strategy. After the war, continued to influence the fields of physics and technology through education and writings.

Continue Reading

Miguel Najdorf

Chess player and theoretician, author
Born
April 15th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 87 years old

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 Reading

Idel Jakobson

Latvian-Estonian NKVD officer
Born
August 12th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1904, served in the NKVD, which was responsible for state security and law enforcement in the Soviet Union. Played a significant role in various operations during the 1930s and 1940s, particularly in Latvia and Estonia. Active during the Soviet regime, participating in efforts to consolidate power and suppress dissent, contributing to the enforcement of Soviet policies in the Baltic region.

Continue Reading

Alexandra Danilova

Ballerina and choreographer, Giselle
Born
November 20th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 94 years old

Born in Russia, a ballet dancer and choreographer later moved to the United States, where she contributed significantly to the American ballet scene. Trained at the Imperial Ballet School in St. Petersburg, gained prominence with the Ballets Russes. Served as a principal dancer, known for performances in classical works. Created choreography for various productions and taught ballet, influencing the next generation of dancers. Worked extensively with notable companies, shaping future performances and training programs.

Continue Reading