What Happened This Year 2017
People Who Died in 2017
Jon Hendricks
Contributed significantly to the development of vocalese, a style of jazz where lyrics are set to instrumental solos. Collaborated with the innovative vocal group Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, which popularized this genre, and was instrumental in bringing vocal jazz to a broader audience. Recorded several influential albums, including 'Sing a Song of Basie' and 'The Hottest New Group in Jazz'. Acknowledged for his exceptional ability to blend skillful lyric writing with intricate jazz harmonies. His work spanned multiple decades, influencing future generations of musicians and vocalists.
Continue ReadingJohn Graham
Graham played as a rugby union player for New Zealand. Represented the national team in the 1960s. After retiring from professional play, he transitioned into education, contributing to the development of rugby in schools. His work supported youth engagement in sports and physical education, promoting athletic opportunities for students.
Continue ReadingChris Wiggins
An English-born Canadian actor who gained recognition for work in television and film. Notably starred in the Canadian science fiction series 'The Starlost' as the character Devon. Also lent talent to various roles in productions such as 'The Canadian Conspiracy' and 'The Incredible Hulk'. Active in the industry for several decades, contributing to both live-action performances and voice work.
Continue ReadingWilliam Goodhart
A prominent lawyer and politician in England, played a significant role in the legislative processes during his career. Served as a member of the House of Lords after being made a life peer in 1997. Was involved in various legal and political reforms, contributing his expertise to discussions on civil liberties and human rights. Also held key positions in several legal organizations and was influential in shaping policies within the British legal framework.
Continue ReadingChristine Keeler
Born in England, a model and dancer gained notoriety during the early 1960s due to involvement in the Profumo affair, a political scandal that had significant repercussions in British politics. Engaged in a brief relationship with John Profumo, the Secretary of State for War, this connection drew public attention when it was revealed that she also had ties to a Soviet diplomat. The scandal highlighted issues of political corruption and espionage during the Cold War, influencing public perception of the British establishment. After the scandal, a career in modeling and appearances in films, including 'Keeler's World', followed. The events surrounding her life have been the subject of books, documentaries, and dramatizations.
Continue ReadingPete Hamilton
A race car driver from the United States, accomplished on the NASCAR circuit. Achieved significant success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Won the prestigious Daytona 500 in 1970, solidifying a place in racing history. Competed for various teams throughout a career that spanned more than a decade, showing proficiency on both dirt and asphalt tracks.
Continue ReadingJoseph Nicolosi
A clinical psychologist, contributed to the field of psychology through the development of reparative therapy, aimed at changing sexual orientation. Founded the Thomas Aquinas Psychological Clinic in California, which became a training center for therapists practicing this approach. Authored several books, including 'Healing Homosexuality' and 'A Parent's Guide to Preventing Homosexuality'. Engaged in public discourse on the subject of sexual orientation and therapy, frequently appearing in media to discuss controversial topics related to homosexuality and psychotherapy.
Continue ReadingHabib Thiam
Served as the Prime Minister of Senegal from 1981 to 1983. Played a key role in the government under President Abdou Diouf. Focused on economic reforms and development policies aimed at modernizing the agricultural sector. Engaged in international diplomacy to strengthen Senegal's position in West Africa.
Continue ReadingCarlos Humberto Romero
Served as the President of El Salvador from 1972 to 1977. His administration is marked by a focus on modernization and economic development amid increasing social unrest. Governed during a time of significant political turmoil, characterized by human rights violations and repression of opposition. Held power through a military-backed regime and faced criticism for the handling of dissent. His presidency ended with a coup led by leftist rebels, leading to further conflict in the country.
Continue Reading