Sculptor Auguste Rodin (76) weds Rose Beuret
Sculptor Auguste Rodin (76) weds Rose Beuret
Year in History
Explore the major historical events, famous births, and notable deaths that occurred in the year 1917. This year saw 173 significant events. 22 notable figures were born. 3 notable figures passed away.
20th Century1910s
1917 Timeline
Sculptor Auguste Rodin (76) weds Rose Beuret
Sculptor Auguste Rodin (76) weds Rose Beuret
First major strike of the Russian "February Revolution" starts at the giant Putilov factory in Petrograd [NS=Mar 3]
First major strike of the Russian "February Revolution" starts at the giant Putilov factory in Petrograd [NS=Mar 3]
First jazz records are recorded: "Dixie Jazz Band One Step" and "Livery Stable Blues" by the Original Dixieland Jass Ban
First jazz records are recorded: "Dixie Jazz Band One Step" and "Livery Stable Blues" by the Original Dixieland Jass Band for the Victor Talking Machine Company in NYC
First major strike of the Russian "February Revolution" starts at the giant Putilov factory in Petrograd [OS=Feb 18]
First major strike of the Russian "February Revolution" starts at the giant Putilov factory in Petrograd [OS=Feb 18]
First jazz record is released on a 78 by the Original Dixieland Jass Band for the Victor Talking Machine Company ("Dixie
First jazz record is released on a 78 by the Original Dixieland Jass Band for the Victor Talking Machine Company ("Dixie Jazz Band One Step" on one side, "Livery Stable Blues" on the other)
Russian "February Revolution" begins in earnest with protests celebrating International Women's Day and riots in St. Pet
Russian "February Revolution" begins in earnest with protests celebrating International Women's Day and riots in St. Petersburg over food rations and conduct of the war [OS=Feb 23]
1st NHL championship game ever played, Toronto Arenas beats Montreal Canadiens 7-3 in 1st of 2 game set (second game on
1st NHL championship game ever played, Toronto Arenas beats Montreal Canadiens 7-3 in 1st of 2 game set (second game on March 13)
The last Russian Tsar Nicholas II, abdicates and nominates his brother, Grand Duke Michael to succeed him [OS Mar 2]
The last Russian Tsar Nicholas II, abdicates and nominates his brother, Grand Duke Michael to succeed him [OS Mar 2]
US President Woodrow Wilson asks Congress to declare war against Germany
The United States declared war on the German Empire on April 6, 1917. President Woodrow Wilson asked a special joint session of the United States Congress for a declaration of war on April 2, 1917,…
The United States declares war on Germany and enters World War I on the side of the Allies
The United States became directly involved in World War I after declaring war on Germany on April 6, 1917.
Vladimir Lenin issues his radical "April Theses" calling for Soviets to take power during the Russian Revolution [OS Apr
Vladimir Lenin issues his radical "April Theses" calling for Soviets to take power during the Russian Revolution [OS Apr 4]
American missionary and writer Pearl Sydenstricker (24) weds fellow American missionary and economist John Lossing Buck
American missionary and writer Pearl Sydenstricker (24) weds fellow American missionary and economist John Lossing Buck (26), becoming Pearl S. Buck; divorce in 1935
Writer Walter Lippmann (27) weds Faye Albertson
Writer Walter Lippmann (27) weds Faye Albertson
Jazz standard "Darktown Strutters' Ball" by Shelton Brooks is recorded by the Original Dixieland Jazz Band
"Darktown Strutters' Ball" is a popular song by Shelton Brooks, published in 1917. The song has been recorded many times and is considered a popular and jazz standard.
First US troops arrive in France during World War I
The Kingdom of Portugal had been allied with England since 1373, and thus the Republic of Portugal was an ally of the United Kingdom.
British battleship HMS Vanguard explodes at Scapa Flow due to an internal explosion caused by faulty cordite, killing 80
British battleship HMS Vanguard explodes at Scapa Flow due to an internal explosion caused by faulty cordite, killing 804 crew members
Silent Parade organized by James Weldon Johnson, 10,000 African Americans march on Fifth Avenue in NYC to protest agains
Silent Parade organized by James Weldon Johnson, 10,000 African Americans march on Fifth Avenue in NYC to protest against lynching
World War I: Battle of Passchendaele (Third Battle of Ypres) begins and lasts until November 6, 1917, causing approximat
World War I: Battle of Passchendaele (Third Battle of Ypres) begins and lasts until November 6, 1917, causing approximately 500,000 casualties
Sun Yat-sen and his supporters' 'rump' parliament establish a military government in China and elect Sun Yat-sen as Comm
Sun Yat-sen and his supporters' 'rump' parliament establish a military government in China and elect Sun Yat-sen as Commander-in-Chief
Third Battle of Ypres: Canadian troops recapture the high ground in the village of Passchendaele from the Germans in Wes
Third Battle of Ypres: Canadian troops recapture the high ground in the village of Passchendaele from the Germans in West Flanders, Belgium, during World War I; over 200,000 casualties occur on each side, and 24,000 German prisoners are taken
Leon Trotsky is named chairman of the Petrograd Soviet as Bolsheviks gain control
Lev Davidovich Trotsky, better known as Leon Trotsky, was a Russian revolutionary, Soviet politician and political theorist.
US suffragette Alice Paul begins a seven-month jail sentence for peacefully picketing in support of the Women's Suffrage
US suffragette Alice Paul begins a seven-month jail sentence for peacefully picketing in support of the Women's Suffrage (right to vote) Amendment at the White House in Washington, D.C.
Irish poet and playwright William Butler Yeats (52) weds Georgie Hyde-Lees (25)
Irish poet and playwright William Butler Yeats (52) weds Georgie Hyde-Lees (25)
British War Cabinet gives final approval to issue the Balfour Declaration to support a "national home for the Jewish peo
British War Cabinet gives final approval to issue the Balfour Declaration to support a "national home for the Jewish people" in what is then Ottoman-controlled Palestine
British government proclaims support for a Jewish homeland in Palestine in the Balfour Declaration
British government proclaims support for a Jewish homeland in Palestine in the Balfour Declaration
Bolshevik Revolution begins with the bombardment of the Winter Palace in Petrograd during the Russian October Revolution
Bolshevik Revolution begins with the bombardment of the Winter Palace in Petrograd during the Russian October Revolution [OS Oct 24]
October Revolution in Russia; Lenin and the Bolsheviks seize power, capture the Winter Palace and overthrow the Provisio
October Revolution in Russia; Lenin and the Bolsheviks seize power, capture the Winter Palace and overthrow the Provisional Government [OS Oct 25]
NHL forms with the Montreal Canadiens, Montreal Wanderers, Ottawa Senators, Quebec Bulldogs, and a new Toronto franchise
NHL forms with the Montreal Canadiens, Montreal Wanderers, Ottawa Senators, Quebec Bulldogs, and a new Toronto franchise (later the Arenas) as the National Hockey Association disbands
American silent film actress Myrtle Gonzalez (27) weds American film actor/director Allen Watt (33) in Los Angeles, Cali
American silent film actress Myrtle Gonzalez (27) weds American film actor/director Allen Watt (33) in Los Angeles, California
The 18th Amendment to the US Constitution, authorizing prohibition of alcohol, is approved by the US congress and sent t
The 18th Amendment to the US Constitution, authorizing prohibition of alcohol, is approved by the US congress and sent to the states for ratification [1]
Improved event: Soviet state security force and forerunner to the KGB, the Cheka forms under Felix Dzerzhinsky after a d
Improved event: Soviet state security force and forerunner to the KGB, the Cheka forms under Felix Dzerzhinsky after a decree by Vladimir Lenin
Famous pilot James Doolittle (21) weds high school sweetheart Josephine E. Daniels
Famous pilot James Doolittle (21) weds high school sweetheart Josephine E. Daniels
Austria-Hungarian troops conquer Forlani Italy
Austria-Hungarian troops conquer Forlani Italy
World War I: the Battle of Rafa occurs near the Egyptian border with Palestine.
World War I: the Battle of Rafa occurs near the Egyptian border with Palestine.
Guy Bolton & PG Wodehouse's musical "Have a Heart" premieres in New York
Guy Bolton & PG Wodehouse's musical "Have a Heart" premieres in New York
Ammunitions ship explosion at Ekonomiia port near Archangel, Russia kills many and injures hundreds
Ammunitions ship explosion at Ekonomiia port near Archangel, Russia kills many and injures hundreds
"Zimmermann Telegram" is sent from Germany to Mexico, offering promise of Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico being given to
"Zimmermann Telegram" is sent from Germany to Mexico, offering promise of Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico being given to Mexico in return for joining World War I if the US enters on the Allied side; British intelligence intercepts the communication and partially deciphers it by the next day. It's rel
US pays Denmark $25 million for Virgin Islands (or 3/21)
The United States Virgin Islands, officially the Virgin Islands of the United States, are a Caribbean insular territory of the United States.
The Silvertown explosion: 73 die when a munitions factory in Essex explodes.
The Silvertown explosion: 73 die when a munitions factory in Essex explodes.
Coen de Koning wins 2nd official 11 cities race (9:53) (record)
Coen de Koning wins 2nd official 11 cities race (9:53) (record)
Municipally owned streetcars take to the streets of San Francisco, California
Municipally owned streetcars take to the streets of San Francisco, California
British submarine K13 sank in Gaire Loch, Scotland; killing 32 of her crew
British submarine K13 sank in Gaire Loch, Scotland; killing 32 of her crew
Germany notifies US that U-boats will attack neutral merchant ship
Germany notifies US that U-boats will attack neutral merchant ship
German Grand Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz announces unrestricted submarine warfare against allied shipping
German Grand Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz announces unrestricted submarine warfare against allied shipping
Belgian Council of Flanders established
Belgian Council of Flanders established
Congress overrides Wilson's veto, curtailing Asian immigration
Congress overrides Wilson's veto, curtailing Asian immigration
Johanna Westerdijk installed as the Netherlands' 1st female professor
Johanna Westerdijk installed as the Netherlands' 1st female professor
1st edition of Joseph Patterson and Sidney Smith's strip "The Gumps"
1st edition of Joseph Patterson and Sidney Smith's strip "The Gumps"
San Francisco Public Library (Main Branch at Civic center) dedicated
The San Francisco Public Library is the public library system of the city and county of San Francisco in United States. The Main Library is located at Civic Center, at 100 Larkin Street.
1st synagogue in 425 years opens in Madrid
1st synagogue in 425 years opens in Madrid
In Australia, Nationalist Party takes over a coalition government
In Australia, Nationalist Party takes over a coalition government
British troopship SS Mendi sinks off Isle of Wight, 646 die
SS Mendi was a British 4,230 GRT passenger steamship that was built in 1905 and, as a troopship, sank after collision with great loss of life in 1917. Alexander Stephen and Sons of Linthouse in...
German Navy torpedoes 7 Dutch ships
German Navy torpedoes 7 Dutch ships
Red Sox sell Smokey Joe Wood, his arm dead at 26, to Cleveland for $15,000
Red Sox sell Smokey Joe Wood, his arm dead at 26, to Cleveland for $15,000
1st Annual fair at Utrecht Harbor (Netherlands)
1st Annual fair at Utrecht Harbor (Netherlands)
AP reports Mexico & Japan will allie with Germany if US enters WW I
AP reports Mexico & Japan will allie with Germany if US enters WW I
1st federal land bank chartered in USA
1st federal land bank chartered in USA
Jones Act: Puerto Rico territory created, US citizenship granted
The Jones–Shafroth Act (Pub. L. 64–368, 39 Stat. 951, enacted March 2, 1917), officially called the Organic Act of Puerto Rico or the Puerto Rico Federal Relations Act of 1917, is an organic act of...
Batangas was formally founded as one of the Philippines's earliest encomiendas
Batangas was formally founded as one of the Philippines's earliest encomiendas
1st exclusively women's bowling tournament begins in St Louis, Missouri
1st exclusively women's bowling tournament begins in St Louis, Missouri
US Supreme Court uphoelds 8-hr work day for railroad employees
US Supreme Court uphoelds 8-hr work day for railroad employees
Loretta Walsh becomes US Navy's 1st female Petty Officer
Loretta Walsh becomes US Navy's 1st female Petty Officer
The USA is the first nation to recognize the new government of Russia
Russia was one of the major belligerents in World War I: from August 1914 to December 1917, it fought on the Entente's side against the Central Powers. At the beginning of the 20th century, the...
Tornadoes kills 211 over 4 days in Midwest US
Tornadoes kills 211 over 4 days in Midwest US
British win a battle against Turks at Gaza
British win a battle against Turks at Gaza
Jews are expelled from Tel Aviv & Jaffa by Turkish authorities
Tel Aviv and Jaffa deportation was the expulsion on April 6, 1917, of 10,000 people from Jaffa and Tel Aviv by the authorities of the Ottoman Empire in Palestine.
The Danish West Indies are officially ceded to the US for $25 million and renamed the Virgin Islands
The United States Virgin Islands, often abbreviated USVI, are a group of islands and cays located in the Lesser Antilles of the Eastern Caribbean, consisting of three main islands (Saint Croix, Saint...
US Senate agrees (82-6) to participate in WWI
US Senate agrees (82-6) to participate in WWI
Battle of Arras begins
The Battle of Arras, also known as the Second Battle of Arras, was a British offensive on the Western Front during the First World War.
Munition factory explosion at Eddystone, Pennsylvania, kills 133 workers
Munition factory explosion at Eddystone, Pennsylvania, kills 133 workers
Bijou Theater opens at 222 W 45th Street, NYC; demolished in 1982
Bijou Theater opens at 222 W 45th Street, NYC; demolished in 1982
Chicago White Sox pitcher Ed Cicotte no-hits St Louis Browns, 11-0
The Chicago White Sox are an American professional baseball team based in Chicago. The White Sox compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member club of the American League (AL) Central Division.
NY Yankees left-handed pitcher George Mogridge no-hits Boston Red Sox, 2-1 at Fenway Park
NY Yankees left-handed pitcher George Mogridge no-hits Boston Red Sox, 2-1 at Fenway Park
Cincinnati's Fred Toney and Chicago's Hippo Vaughn pitch a dual no-hitter. Vaughn gives up 2 hits and a run in the 10th,
Cincinnati's Fred Toney and Chicago's Hippo Vaughn pitch a dual no-hitter. Vaughn gives up 2 hits and a run in the 10th, letting Cincinnati win 1-0
A flotilla of US destroyer ships arrive in Queenstown, Ireland, to aid in convoying ships to England
A flotilla of US destroyer ships arrive in Queenstown, Ireland, to aid in convoying ships to England
St Louis Browns pitcher Bob Groom no-hits Chicago White Sox, 3-0 at Sportsman's Park, St. Louis
The 1917 St. Louis Browns season involved the Browns finishing seventh in the American League with a record of 57 wins and 97 losses.
Atlantic ships get destroyer escorts to stop German attacks
The Atlantic U-boat campaign of World War I (sometimes called the "First Battle of the Atlantic", in reference to the World War II campaign of that name) was the prolonged naval conflict between...
1st appearance of Mary to 3 shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal
1st appearance of Mary to 3 shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal
The first officer's training camp is opened in the US, as the country prepares for war
The first officer's training camp is opened in the US, as the country prepares for war
Erik Satie, Leonide Massine and Pablo Picasso's ballet "Parade" premieres in Paris
Parade is a ballet choreographed by Leonide Massine, with music by Erik Satie and a one-act scenario by Jean Cocteau. The ballet was composed in 1916–17 for Sergei Diaghilev's Ballets Russes.
Turkish government authorizes Jews to return to Tel Aviv & Jaffa
The history of the Jews and Judaism in the Land of Israel begins in the 2nd millennium BCE, when Israelites emerged as an outgrowth of southern Canaanites.
Leo Pinckney, 1st American drafted during WWI
Leo Pinckney, 1st American drafted during WWI
Dutch 2nd Chamber approves 1908 conscription draft
Dutch 2nd Chamber approves 1908 conscription draft
Walt Cruise hit 1st HR out of Braves Field
Walt Cruise hit 1st HR out of Braves Field
Racial strife in East St Louis, Illinois, White workers march through Black neighborhoods beating people and burning som
Racial strife in East St Louis, Illinois, White workers march through Black neighborhoods beating people and burning some buildings; state governor call in National Guard to restore order [1]
Boston Braves first baseman Hank Gowdy is first active MLB player to enlist for service in World War I; only player to f
Boston Braves first baseman Hank Gowdy is first active MLB player to enlist for service in World War I; only player to fight in both World War I & II
American men begin registering for the draft
American men begin registering for the draft
10 million US men begin registering for draft in WW I
10 million US men begin registering for draft in WW I
Melvin Jones and a number of other Chicago businessmen found Lions Clubs International, now the largest service organiza
Melvin Jones and a number of other Chicago businessmen found Lions Clubs International, now the largest service organization in the world
Walt Disney graduates from Benton High School
Walt Disney graduates from Benton High School
60,000 people of Petrograd Russia welcome Prince Kropotkin (banned 41 years) returning after February Russian Revolution
60,000 people of Petrograd Russia welcome Prince Kropotkin (banned 41 years) returning after February Russian Revolution
US Secret Service extends protection of the President to include his family
US Secret Service extends protection of the President to include his family
World War I: the deadliest German air raid on London during World War I is carried out by Gotha G bombers and results in
World War I: the deadliest German air raid on London during World War I is carried out by Gotha G bombers and results in 162 deaths, including 46 children with 432 injuries
First German air attack on England, Gotha bombers kill 162 civilians and injure 432 in East London
A German air campaign of the First World War was carried out against Britain. After several attacks by seaplanes, the main campaign began in January 1915 with airships.
In order to calm troubled relations with Ireland, the British grant amnesty to the Prisoners taken during the Easter Ris
In order to calm troubled relations with Ireland, the British grant amnesty to the Prisoners taken during the Easter Rising of 1916
1st All Russian Congress of the Soviets convenes in Petrograd, Russia [OS Jun 3]
1st All Russian Congress of the Soviets convenes in Petrograd, Russia [OS Jun 3]
The British Royal Family, which has had strong German ties since George I, renounces its German names and titles and ado
The British Royal Family, which has had strong German ties since George I, renounces its German names and titles and adopts the name of Windsor
Hawaiian Red Cross forms
Hawaiian Red Cross forms
Ammunition factory in Boleweg Bohemia explodes, killing 1,000
Ammunition factory in Boleweg Bohemia explodes, killing 1,000
Russian Black Sea fleet mutinies at Sebastopol
Russian Black Sea fleet mutinies at Sebastopol
Potato entrepreneurs begins in Amsterdam
Potato entrepreneurs begins in Amsterdam
cm (100-inch) diameter mirror for telepscope is delivered to Mount Wilson Observatory, in Los Angeles, California
cm (100-inch) diameter mirror for telepscope is delivered to Mount Wilson Observatory, in Los Angeles, California
Race riot in East St Louis, Illinois escalates - Black neighborhood attacked and burned, 40-200 killed over 2 days and 6
Race riot in East St Louis, Illinois escalates - Black neighborhood attacked and burned, 40-200 killed over 2 days and 6000 left homeless [1]
Spontaneous demonstration at Tauride Palace, Petrograd
Spontaneous demonstration at Tauride Palace, Petrograd
The Bisbee Deportation occurs as vigilantes kidnap and deport nearly 1,300 striking miners and others from Bisbee, Arizo
The Bisbee Deportation occurs as vigilantes kidnap and deport nearly 1,300 striking miners and others from Bisbee, Arizona
Vision of the Virgin Mary appears to children of Fátima, Portugal
Fátima is a city in the municipality of Ourém and district of Santarém in the Oeste e Vale do Tejo Region of Portugal, with 71.29 km2 of area and 13,212 inhabitants (2021).
Pact of Corfu signed: Serbs, Croats & Slovenes form Yugoslavia
Pact of Corfu signed: Serbs, Croats & Slovenes form Yugoslavia
Russian Revolution: Socialist Alexander Kerensky becomes Russian Prime Minister
Alexander Fyodorovich Kerensky (4 May [O.S. 22 April] 1881 – 11 June 1970) was a Russian lawyer and revolutionary who led the Russian Provisional Government and the short-lived Russian Republic for...
British bomb German lines at Ypres, 4,250,000 grenades
British bomb German lines at Ypres, 4,250,000 grenades
Cleveland Metropolitan Park District established in Greater Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio and the county seat of Cuyahoga County.
Sir Thomas White introduces the first income tax in Canada as a "temporary" measure, with the lowest bracket at 4% and t
Sir Thomas White introduces the first income tax in Canada as a "temporary" measure, with the lowest bracket at 4% and the highest at 25%
Board of Commissioners of Cleveland Metroparks holds its first meeting
Board of Commissioners of Cleveland Metroparks holds its first meeting
Frank Little, an American Industrial Workers of the World labor union organizer, is tortured and lynched by unknown assa
Frank Little, an American Industrial Workers of the World labor union organizer, is tortured and lynched by unknown assailants in Butte, Montana
Pravda calls for the killing of all capitalists, priests, and officers
Pravda calls for the killing of all capitalists, priests, and officers
British troops attack the Ypres Canal in Boesinghe, Belgium
British troops attack the Ypres Canal in Boesinghe, Belgium
WWI: Battle of Mărăşeşti between the Romanian and German armies begins
The Battle of the Somme (French: Bataille de la Somme; German: Schlacht an der Somme), also known as the Somme offensive, was a battle of the First World War fought by the armies of the British...
A revolt in Catalonia, the province in northeast Spain that has long seen itself as independent
A revolt in Catalonia, the province in northeast Spain that has long seen itself as independent
China declares war on Germany and Austria
World War I, or the First World War (28 July 1914 – 11 November 1918), also known as the Great War, was a global conflict between two coalitions: the Allies (or Entente) and the Central Powers.
Italy declares war on Turkey
World War I, or the First World War (28 July 1914 – 11 November 1918), also known as the Great War, was a global conflict between two coalitions: the Allies (or Entente) and the Central Powers.
The Great Fire in Thessaloniki, Greece, destroys 32% of the city, leaving 70,000 individuals homeless
The Great Thessaloniki Fire of 1917 destroyed two thirds of the city of Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, leaving more than 70,000 homeless.
Sunday benefit baseball game at NYC's Polo Grounds results in John McGraw and Christy Mathewson's arrest for violating B
Sunday benefit baseball game at NYC's Polo Grounds results in John McGraw and Christy Mathewson's arrest for violating Blue Laws
Pittsburgh Pirates play their fourth straight extra-inning game; left fielder Carson Bigbee sets an MLB record with 11 a
Pittsburgh Pirates play their fourth straight extra-inning game; left fielder Carson Bigbee sets an MLB record with 11 at-bats in a 22-inning, 6-5 loss to the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field
Race riot in Houston, Texas; 2 Black people and 11 white people killed
A mutiny and riot by 156 soldiers from the all-black 24th Infantry Regiment of the United States Army took place on August 23, 1917, in Houston, Texas.
Indians set club record by stealing eight bases in a game
Indians set club record by stealing eight bases in a game
Ten suffragists are arrested while picketing the White House
Women's suffrage, or the right of women to vote, was established in the United States over the course of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, first in various states and localities, then...
Canadian Parliament passes the Military Service Act, which is opposed by many French Canadians from Québec and farmers a
Canadian Parliament passes the Military Service Act, which is opposed by many French Canadians from Québec and farmers across the country [1]
Pan-Germanic and nationalist Fatherland Party (Deutsche Vaterlands Partei) formed by former Grand Admiral Alfred von Tir
Pan-Germanic and nationalist Fatherland Party (Deutsche Vaterlands Partei) formed by former Grand Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz
First night bombing of London by German aircraft
A German air campaign of the First World War was carried out against Britain. After several attacks by seaplanes, the main campaign began in January 1915 with airships.
French pilot Georges Guynemer shoots down his 54th German aircraft
French pilot Georges Guynemer shoots down his 54th German aircraft
Forbes Magazine founded by B. C. Forbes and Walter Drey in the US
Forbes is an American business magazine founded by B. C. Forbes in 1917. It has been owned by the Hong Kong-based investment group Integrated Whale Media Investments since 2014.
British assault on Polygon Forest, France
British assault on Polygon Forest, France
British assault on Menin Street, France
British assault on Menin Street, France
Broadhurst Theatre, designed by Herbert J. Krapp for the Shubert brothers, opens at 235 W 44th Street, NYC
The Broadhurst Theatre is a Broadway theater at 235 West 44th Street in the Theater District of Midtown Manhattan in New York City, New York, U.S.
British assault on Broodseinde, France
The Battle of Broodseinde was fought on 4 October 1917 near Ypres in Belgium, at the east end of the Gheluvelt plateau, by the British Second and Fifth armies against the German 4th Army.
Plymouth Theatre, designed by Herbert J. Krapp for the Shubert brothers, opens at 236 W 45th Street, New York City
The Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre (known as the Plymouth Theatre prior to 2004) is a Broadway theater at 236 West 45th Street in the Theater District of Midtown Manhattan in New York City, New York, U.S.
70,000 people gather to see the "Miracle of the Sun," solar visions reportedly by the Virgin Mary in Fátima, Portugal, a
70,000 people gather to see the "Miracle of the Sun," solar visions reportedly by the Virgin Mary in Fátima, Portugal, after prophecies by local children
First British bombing of Germany
A German air campaign of the First World War was carried out against Britain. After several attacks by seaplanes, the main campaign began in January 1915 with airships.
US Army opens Love Field, a military airplane pilot training center, in Dallas, Texas
Kelly Field (formerly Kelly Air Force Base) (IATA: SKF, ICAO: KSKF, FAA LID: SKF) is a Joint-Use facility located in San Antonio, Texas. It was originally named after George E. M.
First Americans to see action on front lines of WWI: US troops enter front lines at Sommervillier under French command
First Americans to see action on front lines of WWI: US troops enter front lines at Sommervillier under French command
1st Infantry division "Big Red One" shoots 1st US shot in WW I
1st Infantry division "Big Red One" shoots 1st US shot in WW I
Battle of Caporetto: German and Austria defeat the Italian army
The Battle of Caporetto (also known as the Twelfth Battle of the Isonzo, the Battle of Kobarid or the Battle of Karfreit) took place on the Isonzo front of World War I. The battle was fought between...
Pan-Russian Congress opens in Petrograd
Pan-Russian Congress opens in Petrograd
Petrograd Soviet accepts establishment of Military
The Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic (Russian SFSR), previously known as the Russian Socialist Federative Soviet Republic, the Russian Federative Soviet Republic, and the Russian Soviet...
20,000 women march in a suffrage parade in New York, US
20,000 women march in a suffrage parade in New York, US
Battle of Beersheba: In southern Palestine, the "last successful cavalry charge in history" is performed by the 4th Aust
Battle of Beersheba: In southern Palestine, the "last successful cavalry charge in history" is performed by the 4th Australian Light Horse during World War I
1st class US mail now costs 3 cents per ounce
1st class US mail now costs 3 cents per ounce
Gen Pershing & US troops see action on Western Front for 1st time
General of the Armies John Joseph Pershing, nicknamed "Black Jack", was an American army general, educator, and founder of the Pershing Rifles.
British capture Gaza, Palestine, from Turks
The Sinai and Palestine campaign was part of the Middle Eastern theatre of World War I, taking place between January 1915 and October 1918.
Telephone Co runs 1st advertisement for Army operators, receives 7,000 applicants
Telephone Co runs 1st advertisement for Army operators, receives 7,000 applicants
41 suffragists are arrested in front of White House
41 suffragists are arrested in front of White House
British occupy Tel Aviv and Jaffa
Tel Aviv, officially Tel Aviv-Yafo, and also known as Tel Aviv-Jaffa, is the most populous city in the Gush Dan metropolitan area of Israel.
Sigma Alpha Rho, a Jewish high school fraternity, is founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Sigma Alpha Rho, a Jewish high school fraternity, is founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
First successful use of a tank in battle at the Battle of Cambrai in World War I as Britain uses the new technology to b
First successful use of a tank in battle at the Battle of Cambrai in World War I as Britain uses the new technology to break through German lines
Nine police officers and one civilian are killed when a bomb explodes at the Milwaukee, Wisconsin police headquarters bu
Nine police officers and one civilian are killed when a bomb explodes at the Milwaukee, Wisconsin police headquarters building.
Sigmund Romberg's revue "Over the Top" premieres in New York
Sigmund Romberg's revue "Over the Top" premieres in New York
The Supreme Allied War Council meets at Quai d'Orsay, Paris, and at Versailles to draft war aims and resolutions
The Supreme Allied War Council meets at Quai d'Orsay, Paris, and at Versailles to draft war aims and resolutions
Han Yong-woon, finds Zen awakening at Osean Monastery, Korea
Han Yong-woon, finds Zen awakening at Osean Monastery, Korea
After nearly 20 years of planning and construction, the Quebec Bridge finally opens to traffic after two prior collapses
After nearly 20 years of planning and construction, the Quebec Bridge finally opens to traffic after two prior collapses
Austro-German Forces launch an offensive against the Italians on the western end of their line, around Asiago
The Kerensky offensive, also called the summer offensive, the June offensive in Russia, or the July offensive in Western historiography, took place from 1 July [O.S. 18 June] to 19 July [O.S.
French munition ship SS Mont Blanc collides with Norwegian SS Imo in Halifax harbour, Canada, resulting explosion kills
French munition ship SS Mont Blanc collides with Norwegian SS Imo in Halifax harbour, Canada, resulting explosion kills at least 1,700 and injures more than 9,000 people - world’s largest pre-atomic explosion [1]
British forces under General Allenby capture Jerusalem
Field Marshal Edmund Henry Hynman Allenby, 1st Viscount Allenby, (23 April 1861 – 14 May 1936) was a senior British Army officer and imperial governor.
13 black soldiers hanged for participation in Houston riot
13 black soldiers hanged for participation in Houston riot
Boys Town, an orphanage for boys, is founded by Father Edward Flanagan in Omaha, Nebraska
Boys Town, an orphanage for boys, is founded by Father Edward Flanagan in Omaha, Nebraska
UFA, Universal Film AG, forms in Germany
UFA, Universal Film AG, forms in Germany
Moldavian Republic declares independence from Russia
Moldavian Republic declares independence from Russia
1st NHL game played on artificial ice in Toronto
The Toronto Maple Leafs, officially the Toronto Maple Leaf Hockey Club and colloquially known as the Leafs, are a professional ice hockey team based in Toronto.
A second nationwide referendum on military conscription is rejected by the Australian public
A second nationwide referendum on military conscription is rejected by the Australian public
Flanders declares its independence, under Pieter Tack
Flanders declares its independence, under Pieter Tack
Three British warships come close to Holland
Three British warships come close to Holland
"Why Marry," the first drama to win a Pulitzer Prize, premieres in NYC
"Why Marry," the first drama to win a Pulitzer Prize, premieres in NYC
1st NHL defensemen to score a goal: Toronto Maple Leaf Harry Cameron
1st NHL defensemen to score a goal: Toronto Maple Leaf Harry Cameron
-32°F (-36°C) in Mountain City, Tennessee (state record)
-32°F (-36°C) in Mountain City, Tennessee (state record)
Dutch Social-democratic trade union NVV counts 159,450 members
Dutch Social-democratic trade union NVV counts 159,450 members
Ernest Borgnine is born
Ernest Borgnine, American actor, known for american actor, was born on 1917-01-24. Ernest Borgnine was an American actor whose career spanned over six decades.
Zhang Chunqiao is born
Zhang Chunqiao, Chinese member of the gang of four, known for member of the gang of four, was born on 1917-02-01. Zhang Chunqiao was a Chinese political theorist, writer, and politician.
Zsa Zsa Gabor is born
Zsa Zsa Gabor, American hungarian-american socialite and actress, known for hungarian-american socialite and actress, was born on 1917-02-06.
Sidney Sheldon is born
Sidney Sheldon, American writer, known for american writer, was born on 1917-02-11. Sidney Sheldon (February 11, 1917 – January 30, 2007) was an American writer.
Anthony Burgess is born
Anthony Burgess, English writer and composer, known for english writer and composer, was born on 1917-02-25.
Dinah Shore is born
Dinah Shore, American singer and actress, known for american singer and actress, was born on 1917-03-01.
Desi Arnaz is born
Desi Arnaz, American cuban-american musician, actor, producer and television studio head, known for cuban-american musician, actor, producer and television studio head, was born on 1917-03-02.
Ella Fitzgerald is born
Ella Fitzgerald, American musician, known for american jazz singer, was born on 1917-04-25.
I. M. Pei is born
I. M. Pei, American athlete, known for chinese-american architect, was born on 1917-04-26.
Betty Comden is born
Betty Comden, American musician, known for american dramatist and lyricist, was born on 1917-05-03.
John F. Kennedy is born
John F. Kennedy is born
Dean Martin is born
Dean Martin, American singer and actor, known for american singer and actor, was born on 1917-06-07. Dean Martin was an American singer, actor, comedian and television host.
Katharine Graham is born
Katharine Graham, American newspaper publisher, known for american newspaper publisher, was born on 1917-06-16.
Lena Horne is born
Lena Horne, American singer, actress, dancer and activist, known for american singer, actress, dancer and activist, was born on 1917-06-30.
Phyllis Diller is born
Phyllis Diller, American comedian and actress, known for american comedian and actress, was born on 1917-07-17.
Whipper Billy Watson is born
Whipper Billy Watson is born
Ferdinand Marcos is born
Ferdinand Marcos is born
Red Auerbach is born
Red Auerbach, American athlete, known for american basketball coach and executive, was born on 1917-09-20.
Billy Conn is born
Billy Conn, American athlete, known for american boxer, was born on 1917-10-08. William David Conn (October 8, 1917 – May 29, 1993) was an American professional boxer and Light Heavyweight Champion…
Joan Fontaine is born
Joan Fontaine, American actress, known for british actress, was born on 1917-10-22.
Bobby Locke is born
Bobby Locke is born
Jack Lynch is born
Jack Lynch is born
George Dewey dies
George Dewey us navy admiral, known for us navy admiral, died on 1917-01-16. George Dewey (December 26, 1837 – January 16, 1917) was Admiral of the Navy, the only person in United States history to…
Scott Joplin dies
Scott Joplin, American composer and pianist, known for american composer and pianist, died on 1917-04-01. Scott Joplin (November 24, 1868 – April 1, 1917) was an American composer and pianist.
Auguste Rodin dies
Auguste Rodin, French sculptor, known for french sculptor, died on 1917-11-17. François Auguste René Rodin was a French sculptor generally considered the founder of modern sculpture.
Events
First major strike of the Russian "February Revolution" starts at the giant Putilov factory in Petrograd [NS=Mar 3]
First major strike of the Russian "February Revolution" starts at the giant Putilov factory in Petrograd [NS=Mar 3]
First jazz records are recorded: "Dixie Jazz Band One Step" and "Livery Stable Blues" by the Original Dixieland Jass Ban
First jazz records are recorded: "Dixie Jazz Band One Step" and "Livery Stable Blues" by the Original Dixieland Jass Band for the Victor Talking Machine Company in NYC
First major strike of the Russian "February Revolution" starts at the giant Putilov factory in Petrograd [OS=Feb 18]
First major strike of the Russian "February Revolution" starts at the giant Putilov factory in Petrograd [OS=Feb 18]
First jazz record is released on a 78 by the Original Dixieland Jass Band for the Victor Talking Machine Company ("Dixie
First jazz record is released on a 78 by the Original Dixieland Jass Band for the Victor Talking Machine Company ("Dixie Jazz Band One Step" on one side, "Livery Stable Blues" on the other)
Russian "February Revolution" begins in earnest with protests celebrating International Women's Day and riots in St. Pet
Russian "February Revolution" begins in earnest with protests celebrating International Women's Day and riots in St. Petersburg over food rations and conduct of the war [OS=Feb 23]
1st NHL championship game ever played, Toronto Arenas beats Montreal Canadiens 7-3 in 1st of 2 game set (second game on
1st NHL championship game ever played, Toronto Arenas beats Montreal Canadiens 7-3 in 1st of 2 game set (second game on March 13)
The last Russian Tsar Nicholas II, abdicates and nominates his brother, Grand Duke Michael to succeed him [OS Mar 2]
The last Russian Tsar Nicholas II, abdicates and nominates his brother, Grand Duke Michael to succeed him [OS Mar 2]
US President Woodrow Wilson asks Congress to declare war against Germany
The United States declared war on the German Empire on April 6, 1917. President Woodrow Wilson asked a special joint session of the United States Congress for a declaration of war on April 2, 1917,…
The United States declares war on Germany and enters World War I on the side of the Allies
The United States became directly involved in World War I after declaring war on Germany on April 6, 1917.
Vladimir Lenin issues his radical "April Theses" calling for Soviets to take power during the Russian Revolution [OS Apr
Vladimir Lenin issues his radical "April Theses" calling for Soviets to take power during the Russian Revolution [OS Apr 4]
American missionary and writer Pearl Sydenstricker (24) weds fellow American missionary and economist John Lossing Buck
American missionary and writer Pearl Sydenstricker (24) weds fellow American missionary and economist John Lossing Buck (26), becoming Pearl S. Buck; divorce in 1935
Writer Walter Lippmann (27) weds Faye Albertson
Writer Walter Lippmann (27) weds Faye Albertson
Jazz standard "Darktown Strutters' Ball" by Shelton Brooks is recorded by the Original Dixieland Jazz Band
"Darktown Strutters' Ball" is a popular song by Shelton Brooks, published in 1917. The song has been recorded many times and is considered a popular and jazz standard.
First US troops arrive in France during World War I
The Kingdom of Portugal had been allied with England since 1373, and thus the Republic of Portugal was an ally of the United Kingdom.
British battleship HMS Vanguard explodes at Scapa Flow due to an internal explosion caused by faulty cordite, killing 80
British battleship HMS Vanguard explodes at Scapa Flow due to an internal explosion caused by faulty cordite, killing 804 crew members
Silent Parade organized by James Weldon Johnson, 10,000 African Americans march on Fifth Avenue in NYC to protest agains
Silent Parade organized by James Weldon Johnson, 10,000 African Americans march on Fifth Avenue in NYC to protest against lynching
World War I: Battle of Passchendaele (Third Battle of Ypres) begins and lasts until November 6, 1917, causing approximat
World War I: Battle of Passchendaele (Third Battle of Ypres) begins and lasts until November 6, 1917, causing approximately 500,000 casualties
Sun Yat-sen and his supporters' 'rump' parliament establish a military government in China and elect Sun Yat-sen as Comm
Sun Yat-sen and his supporters' 'rump' parliament establish a military government in China and elect Sun Yat-sen as Commander-in-Chief
Third Battle of Ypres: Canadian troops recapture the high ground in the village of Passchendaele from the Germans in Wes
Third Battle of Ypres: Canadian troops recapture the high ground in the village of Passchendaele from the Germans in West Flanders, Belgium, during World War I; over 200,000 casualties occur on each side, and 24,000 German prisoners are taken
Leon Trotsky is named chairman of the Petrograd Soviet as Bolsheviks gain control
Lev Davidovich Trotsky, better known as Leon Trotsky, was a Russian revolutionary, Soviet politician and political theorist.
US suffragette Alice Paul begins a seven-month jail sentence for peacefully picketing in support of the Women's Suffrage
US suffragette Alice Paul begins a seven-month jail sentence for peacefully picketing in support of the Women's Suffrage (right to vote) Amendment at the White House in Washington, D.C.
Irish poet and playwright William Butler Yeats (52) weds Georgie Hyde-Lees (25)
Irish poet and playwright William Butler Yeats (52) weds Georgie Hyde-Lees (25)
British War Cabinet gives final approval to issue the Balfour Declaration to support a "national home for the Jewish peo
British War Cabinet gives final approval to issue the Balfour Declaration to support a "national home for the Jewish people" in what is then Ottoman-controlled Palestine
British government proclaims support for a Jewish homeland in Palestine in the Balfour Declaration
British government proclaims support for a Jewish homeland in Palestine in the Balfour Declaration
Bolshevik Revolution begins with the bombardment of the Winter Palace in Petrograd during the Russian October Revolution
Bolshevik Revolution begins with the bombardment of the Winter Palace in Petrograd during the Russian October Revolution [OS Oct 24]
October Revolution in Russia; Lenin and the Bolsheviks seize power, capture the Winter Palace and overthrow the Provisio
October Revolution in Russia; Lenin and the Bolsheviks seize power, capture the Winter Palace and overthrow the Provisional Government [OS Oct 25]
NHL forms with the Montreal Canadiens, Montreal Wanderers, Ottawa Senators, Quebec Bulldogs, and a new Toronto franchise
NHL forms with the Montreal Canadiens, Montreal Wanderers, Ottawa Senators, Quebec Bulldogs, and a new Toronto franchise (later the Arenas) as the National Hockey Association disbands
American silent film actress Myrtle Gonzalez (27) weds American film actor/director Allen Watt (33) in Los Angeles, Cali
American silent film actress Myrtle Gonzalez (27) weds American film actor/director Allen Watt (33) in Los Angeles, California
The 18th Amendment to the US Constitution, authorizing prohibition of alcohol, is approved by the US congress and sent t
The 18th Amendment to the US Constitution, authorizing prohibition of alcohol, is approved by the US congress and sent to the states for ratification [1]
Improved event: Soviet state security force and forerunner to the KGB, the Cheka forms under Felix Dzerzhinsky after a d
Improved event: Soviet state security force and forerunner to the KGB, the Cheka forms under Felix Dzerzhinsky after a decree by Vladimir Lenin
Famous pilot James Doolittle (21) weds high school sweetheart Josephine E. Daniels
Famous pilot James Doolittle (21) weds high school sweetheart Josephine E. Daniels
Austria-Hungarian troops conquer Forlani Italy
Austria-Hungarian troops conquer Forlani Italy
World War I: the Battle of Rafa occurs near the Egyptian border with Palestine.
World War I: the Battle of Rafa occurs near the Egyptian border with Palestine.
Guy Bolton & PG Wodehouse's musical "Have a Heart" premieres in New York
Guy Bolton & PG Wodehouse's musical "Have a Heart" premieres in New York
Ammunitions ship explosion at Ekonomiia port near Archangel, Russia kills many and injures hundreds
Ammunitions ship explosion at Ekonomiia port near Archangel, Russia kills many and injures hundreds
"Zimmermann Telegram" is sent from Germany to Mexico, offering promise of Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico being given to
"Zimmermann Telegram" is sent from Germany to Mexico, offering promise of Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico being given to Mexico in return for joining World War I if the US enters on the Allied side; British intelligence intercepts the communication and partially deciphers it by the next day. It's rel
US pays Denmark $25 million for Virgin Islands (or 3/21)
The United States Virgin Islands, officially the Virgin Islands of the United States, are a Caribbean insular territory of the United States.
The Silvertown explosion: 73 die when a munitions factory in Essex explodes.
The Silvertown explosion: 73 die when a munitions factory in Essex explodes.
Coen de Koning wins 2nd official 11 cities race (9:53) (record)
Coen de Koning wins 2nd official 11 cities race (9:53) (record)
Municipally owned streetcars take to the streets of San Francisco, California
Municipally owned streetcars take to the streets of San Francisco, California
British submarine K13 sank in Gaire Loch, Scotland; killing 32 of her crew
British submarine K13 sank in Gaire Loch, Scotland; killing 32 of her crew
Germany notifies US that U-boats will attack neutral merchant ship
Germany notifies US that U-boats will attack neutral merchant ship
German Grand Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz announces unrestricted submarine warfare against allied shipping
German Grand Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz announces unrestricted submarine warfare against allied shipping
Belgian Council of Flanders established
Belgian Council of Flanders established
Congress overrides Wilson's veto, curtailing Asian immigration
Congress overrides Wilson's veto, curtailing Asian immigration
Johanna Westerdijk installed as the Netherlands' 1st female professor
Johanna Westerdijk installed as the Netherlands' 1st female professor
1st edition of Joseph Patterson and Sidney Smith's strip "The Gumps"
1st edition of Joseph Patterson and Sidney Smith's strip "The Gumps"
San Francisco Public Library (Main Branch at Civic center) dedicated
The San Francisco Public Library is the public library system of the city and county of San Francisco in United States. The Main Library is located at Civic Center, at 100 Larkin Street.
1st synagogue in 425 years opens in Madrid
1st synagogue in 425 years opens in Madrid
In Australia, Nationalist Party takes over a coalition government
In Australia, Nationalist Party takes over a coalition government
British troopship SS Mendi sinks off Isle of Wight, 646 die
SS Mendi was a British 4,230 GRT passenger steamship that was built in 1905 and, as a troopship, sank after collision with great loss of life in 1917. Alexander Stephen and Sons of Linthouse in...
German Navy torpedoes 7 Dutch ships
German Navy torpedoes 7 Dutch ships
Red Sox sell Smokey Joe Wood, his arm dead at 26, to Cleveland for $15,000
Red Sox sell Smokey Joe Wood, his arm dead at 26, to Cleveland for $15,000
1st Annual fair at Utrecht Harbor (Netherlands)
1st Annual fair at Utrecht Harbor (Netherlands)
AP reports Mexico & Japan will allie with Germany if US enters WW I
AP reports Mexico & Japan will allie with Germany if US enters WW I
1st federal land bank chartered in USA
1st federal land bank chartered in USA
Jones Act: Puerto Rico territory created, US citizenship granted
The Jones–Shafroth Act (Pub. L. 64–368, 39 Stat. 951, enacted March 2, 1917), officially called the Organic Act of Puerto Rico or the Puerto Rico Federal Relations Act of 1917, is an organic act of...
Batangas was formally founded as one of the Philippines's earliest encomiendas
Batangas was formally founded as one of the Philippines's earliest encomiendas
1st exclusively women's bowling tournament begins in St Louis, Missouri
1st exclusively women's bowling tournament begins in St Louis, Missouri
US Supreme Court uphoelds 8-hr work day for railroad employees
US Supreme Court uphoelds 8-hr work day for railroad employees
Loretta Walsh becomes US Navy's 1st female Petty Officer
Loretta Walsh becomes US Navy's 1st female Petty Officer
The USA is the first nation to recognize the new government of Russia
Russia was one of the major belligerents in World War I: from August 1914 to December 1917, it fought on the Entente's side against the Central Powers. At the beginning of the 20th century, the...
Tornadoes kills 211 over 4 days in Midwest US
Tornadoes kills 211 over 4 days in Midwest US
British win a battle against Turks at Gaza
British win a battle against Turks at Gaza
Jews are expelled from Tel Aviv & Jaffa by Turkish authorities
Tel Aviv and Jaffa deportation was the expulsion on April 6, 1917, of 10,000 people from Jaffa and Tel Aviv by the authorities of the Ottoman Empire in Palestine.
The Danish West Indies are officially ceded to the US for $25 million and renamed the Virgin Islands
The United States Virgin Islands, often abbreviated USVI, are a group of islands and cays located in the Lesser Antilles of the Eastern Caribbean, consisting of three main islands (Saint Croix, Saint...
US Senate agrees (82-6) to participate in WWI
US Senate agrees (82-6) to participate in WWI
Battle of Arras begins
The Battle of Arras, also known as the Second Battle of Arras, was a British offensive on the Western Front during the First World War.
Munition factory explosion at Eddystone, Pennsylvania, kills 133 workers
Munition factory explosion at Eddystone, Pennsylvania, kills 133 workers
Bijou Theater opens at 222 W 45th Street, NYC; demolished in 1982
Bijou Theater opens at 222 W 45th Street, NYC; demolished in 1982
Chicago White Sox pitcher Ed Cicotte no-hits St Louis Browns, 11-0
The Chicago White Sox are an American professional baseball team based in Chicago. The White Sox compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member club of the American League (AL) Central Division.
NY Yankees left-handed pitcher George Mogridge no-hits Boston Red Sox, 2-1 at Fenway Park
NY Yankees left-handed pitcher George Mogridge no-hits Boston Red Sox, 2-1 at Fenway Park
Cincinnati's Fred Toney and Chicago's Hippo Vaughn pitch a dual no-hitter. Vaughn gives up 2 hits and a run in the 10th,
Cincinnati's Fred Toney and Chicago's Hippo Vaughn pitch a dual no-hitter. Vaughn gives up 2 hits and a run in the 10th, letting Cincinnati win 1-0
A flotilla of US destroyer ships arrive in Queenstown, Ireland, to aid in convoying ships to England
A flotilla of US destroyer ships arrive in Queenstown, Ireland, to aid in convoying ships to England
St Louis Browns pitcher Bob Groom no-hits Chicago White Sox, 3-0 at Sportsman's Park, St. Louis
The 1917 St. Louis Browns season involved the Browns finishing seventh in the American League with a record of 57 wins and 97 losses.
Atlantic ships get destroyer escorts to stop German attacks
The Atlantic U-boat campaign of World War I (sometimes called the "First Battle of the Atlantic", in reference to the World War II campaign of that name) was the prolonged naval conflict between...
1st appearance of Mary to 3 shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal
1st appearance of Mary to 3 shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal
The first officer's training camp is opened in the US, as the country prepares for war
The first officer's training camp is opened in the US, as the country prepares for war
Erik Satie, Leonide Massine and Pablo Picasso's ballet "Parade" premieres in Paris
Parade is a ballet choreographed by Leonide Massine, with music by Erik Satie and a one-act scenario by Jean Cocteau. The ballet was composed in 1916–17 for Sergei Diaghilev's Ballets Russes.
Turkish government authorizes Jews to return to Tel Aviv & Jaffa
The history of the Jews and Judaism in the Land of Israel begins in the 2nd millennium BCE, when Israelites emerged as an outgrowth of southern Canaanites.
Leo Pinckney, 1st American drafted during WWI
Leo Pinckney, 1st American drafted during WWI
Dutch 2nd Chamber approves 1908 conscription draft
Dutch 2nd Chamber approves 1908 conscription draft
Walt Cruise hit 1st HR out of Braves Field
Walt Cruise hit 1st HR out of Braves Field
Racial strife in East St Louis, Illinois, White workers march through Black neighborhoods beating people and burning som
Racial strife in East St Louis, Illinois, White workers march through Black neighborhoods beating people and burning some buildings; state governor call in National Guard to restore order [1]
Boston Braves first baseman Hank Gowdy is first active MLB player to enlist for service in World War I; only player to f
Boston Braves first baseman Hank Gowdy is first active MLB player to enlist for service in World War I; only player to fight in both World War I & II
American men begin registering for the draft
American men begin registering for the draft
10 million US men begin registering for draft in WW I
10 million US men begin registering for draft in WW I
Melvin Jones and a number of other Chicago businessmen found Lions Clubs International, now the largest service organiza
Melvin Jones and a number of other Chicago businessmen found Lions Clubs International, now the largest service organization in the world
Walt Disney graduates from Benton High School
Walt Disney graduates from Benton High School
60,000 people of Petrograd Russia welcome Prince Kropotkin (banned 41 years) returning after February Russian Revolution
60,000 people of Petrograd Russia welcome Prince Kropotkin (banned 41 years) returning after February Russian Revolution
US Secret Service extends protection of the President to include his family
US Secret Service extends protection of the President to include his family
World War I: the deadliest German air raid on London during World War I is carried out by Gotha G bombers and results in
World War I: the deadliest German air raid on London during World War I is carried out by Gotha G bombers and results in 162 deaths, including 46 children with 432 injuries
First German air attack on England, Gotha bombers kill 162 civilians and injure 432 in East London
A German air campaign of the First World War was carried out against Britain. After several attacks by seaplanes, the main campaign began in January 1915 with airships.
In order to calm troubled relations with Ireland, the British grant amnesty to the Prisoners taken during the Easter Ris
In order to calm troubled relations with Ireland, the British grant amnesty to the Prisoners taken during the Easter Rising of 1916
1st All Russian Congress of the Soviets convenes in Petrograd, Russia [OS Jun 3]
1st All Russian Congress of the Soviets convenes in Petrograd, Russia [OS Jun 3]
The British Royal Family, which has had strong German ties since George I, renounces its German names and titles and ado
The British Royal Family, which has had strong German ties since George I, renounces its German names and titles and adopts the name of Windsor
Hawaiian Red Cross forms
Hawaiian Red Cross forms
Ammunition factory in Boleweg Bohemia explodes, killing 1,000
Ammunition factory in Boleweg Bohemia explodes, killing 1,000
Russian Black Sea fleet mutinies at Sebastopol
Russian Black Sea fleet mutinies at Sebastopol
Potato entrepreneurs begins in Amsterdam
Potato entrepreneurs begins in Amsterdam
cm (100-inch) diameter mirror for telepscope is delivered to Mount Wilson Observatory, in Los Angeles, California
cm (100-inch) diameter mirror for telepscope is delivered to Mount Wilson Observatory, in Los Angeles, California
Race riot in East St Louis, Illinois escalates - Black neighborhood attacked and burned, 40-200 killed over 2 days and 6
Race riot in East St Louis, Illinois escalates - Black neighborhood attacked and burned, 40-200 killed over 2 days and 6000 left homeless [1]
Spontaneous demonstration at Tauride Palace, Petrograd
Spontaneous demonstration at Tauride Palace, Petrograd
The Bisbee Deportation occurs as vigilantes kidnap and deport nearly 1,300 striking miners and others from Bisbee, Arizo
The Bisbee Deportation occurs as vigilantes kidnap and deport nearly 1,300 striking miners and others from Bisbee, Arizona
Vision of the Virgin Mary appears to children of Fátima, Portugal
Fátima is a city in the municipality of Ourém and district of Santarém in the Oeste e Vale do Tejo Region of Portugal, with 71.29 km2 of area and 13,212 inhabitants (2021).
Pact of Corfu signed: Serbs, Croats & Slovenes form Yugoslavia
Pact of Corfu signed: Serbs, Croats & Slovenes form Yugoslavia
Russian Revolution: Socialist Alexander Kerensky becomes Russian Prime Minister
Alexander Fyodorovich Kerensky (4 May [O.S. 22 April] 1881 – 11 June 1970) was a Russian lawyer and revolutionary who led the Russian Provisional Government and the short-lived Russian Republic for...
British bomb German lines at Ypres, 4,250,000 grenades
British bomb German lines at Ypres, 4,250,000 grenades
Cleveland Metropolitan Park District established in Greater Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio and the county seat of Cuyahoga County.
Sir Thomas White introduces the first income tax in Canada as a "temporary" measure, with the lowest bracket at 4% and t
Sir Thomas White introduces the first income tax in Canada as a "temporary" measure, with the lowest bracket at 4% and the highest at 25%
Board of Commissioners of Cleveland Metroparks holds its first meeting
Board of Commissioners of Cleveland Metroparks holds its first meeting
Frank Little, an American Industrial Workers of the World labor union organizer, is tortured and lynched by unknown assa
Frank Little, an American Industrial Workers of the World labor union organizer, is tortured and lynched by unknown assailants in Butte, Montana
Pravda calls for the killing of all capitalists, priests, and officers
Pravda calls for the killing of all capitalists, priests, and officers
British troops attack the Ypres Canal in Boesinghe, Belgium
British troops attack the Ypres Canal in Boesinghe, Belgium
WWI: Battle of Mărăşeşti between the Romanian and German armies begins
The Battle of the Somme (French: Bataille de la Somme; German: Schlacht an der Somme), also known as the Somme offensive, was a battle of the First World War fought by the armies of the British...
A revolt in Catalonia, the province in northeast Spain that has long seen itself as independent
A revolt in Catalonia, the province in northeast Spain that has long seen itself as independent
China declares war on Germany and Austria
World War I, or the First World War (28 July 1914 – 11 November 1918), also known as the Great War, was a global conflict between two coalitions: the Allies (or Entente) and the Central Powers.
Italy declares war on Turkey
World War I, or the First World War (28 July 1914 – 11 November 1918), also known as the Great War, was a global conflict between two coalitions: the Allies (or Entente) and the Central Powers.
The Great Fire in Thessaloniki, Greece, destroys 32% of the city, leaving 70,000 individuals homeless
The Great Thessaloniki Fire of 1917 destroyed two thirds of the city of Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, leaving more than 70,000 homeless.
Sunday benefit baseball game at NYC's Polo Grounds results in John McGraw and Christy Mathewson's arrest for violating B
Sunday benefit baseball game at NYC's Polo Grounds results in John McGraw and Christy Mathewson's arrest for violating Blue Laws
Pittsburgh Pirates play their fourth straight extra-inning game; left fielder Carson Bigbee sets an MLB record with 11 a
Pittsburgh Pirates play their fourth straight extra-inning game; left fielder Carson Bigbee sets an MLB record with 11 at-bats in a 22-inning, 6-5 loss to the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field
Race riot in Houston, Texas; 2 Black people and 11 white people killed
A mutiny and riot by 156 soldiers from the all-black 24th Infantry Regiment of the United States Army took place on August 23, 1917, in Houston, Texas.
Indians set club record by stealing eight bases in a game
Indians set club record by stealing eight bases in a game
Ten suffragists are arrested while picketing the White House
Women's suffrage, or the right of women to vote, was established in the United States over the course of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, first in various states and localities, then...
Canadian Parliament passes the Military Service Act, which is opposed by many French Canadians from Québec and farmers a
Canadian Parliament passes the Military Service Act, which is opposed by many French Canadians from Québec and farmers across the country [1]
Pan-Germanic and nationalist Fatherland Party (Deutsche Vaterlands Partei) formed by former Grand Admiral Alfred von Tir
Pan-Germanic and nationalist Fatherland Party (Deutsche Vaterlands Partei) formed by former Grand Admiral Alfred von Tirpitz
First night bombing of London by German aircraft
A German air campaign of the First World War was carried out against Britain. After several attacks by seaplanes, the main campaign began in January 1915 with airships.
French pilot Georges Guynemer shoots down his 54th German aircraft
French pilot Georges Guynemer shoots down his 54th German aircraft
Forbes Magazine founded by B. C. Forbes and Walter Drey in the US
Forbes is an American business magazine founded by B. C. Forbes in 1917. It has been owned by the Hong Kong-based investment group Integrated Whale Media Investments since 2014.
British assault on Polygon Forest, France
British assault on Polygon Forest, France
British assault on Menin Street, France
British assault on Menin Street, France
Broadhurst Theatre, designed by Herbert J. Krapp for the Shubert brothers, opens at 235 W 44th Street, NYC
The Broadhurst Theatre is a Broadway theater at 235 West 44th Street in the Theater District of Midtown Manhattan in New York City, New York, U.S.
British assault on Broodseinde, France
The Battle of Broodseinde was fought on 4 October 1917 near Ypres in Belgium, at the east end of the Gheluvelt plateau, by the British Second and Fifth armies against the German 4th Army.
Plymouth Theatre, designed by Herbert J. Krapp for the Shubert brothers, opens at 236 W 45th Street, New York City
The Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre (known as the Plymouth Theatre prior to 2004) is a Broadway theater at 236 West 45th Street in the Theater District of Midtown Manhattan in New York City, New York, U.S.
70,000 people gather to see the "Miracle of the Sun," solar visions reportedly by the Virgin Mary in Fátima, Portugal, a
70,000 people gather to see the "Miracle of the Sun," solar visions reportedly by the Virgin Mary in Fátima, Portugal, after prophecies by local children
First British bombing of Germany
A German air campaign of the First World War was carried out against Britain. After several attacks by seaplanes, the main campaign began in January 1915 with airships.
US Army opens Love Field, a military airplane pilot training center, in Dallas, Texas
Kelly Field (formerly Kelly Air Force Base) (IATA: SKF, ICAO: KSKF, FAA LID: SKF) is a Joint-Use facility located in San Antonio, Texas. It was originally named after George E. M.
First Americans to see action on front lines of WWI: US troops enter front lines at Sommervillier under French command
First Americans to see action on front lines of WWI: US troops enter front lines at Sommervillier under French command
1st Infantry division "Big Red One" shoots 1st US shot in WW I
1st Infantry division "Big Red One" shoots 1st US shot in WW I
Battle of Caporetto: German and Austria defeat the Italian army
The Battle of Caporetto (also known as the Twelfth Battle of the Isonzo, the Battle of Kobarid or the Battle of Karfreit) took place on the Isonzo front of World War I. The battle was fought between...
Pan-Russian Congress opens in Petrograd
Pan-Russian Congress opens in Petrograd
Petrograd Soviet accepts establishment of Military
The Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic (Russian SFSR), previously known as the Russian Socialist Federative Soviet Republic, the Russian Federative Soviet Republic, and the Russian Soviet...
20,000 women march in a suffrage parade in New York, US
20,000 women march in a suffrage parade in New York, US
Battle of Beersheba: In southern Palestine, the "last successful cavalry charge in history" is performed by the 4th Aust
Battle of Beersheba: In southern Palestine, the "last successful cavalry charge in history" is performed by the 4th Australian Light Horse during World War I
1st class US mail now costs 3 cents per ounce
1st class US mail now costs 3 cents per ounce
Gen Pershing & US troops see action on Western Front for 1st time
General of the Armies John Joseph Pershing, nicknamed "Black Jack", was an American army general, educator, and founder of the Pershing Rifles.
British capture Gaza, Palestine, from Turks
The Sinai and Palestine campaign was part of the Middle Eastern theatre of World War I, taking place between January 1915 and October 1918.
Telephone Co runs 1st advertisement for Army operators, receives 7,000 applicants
Telephone Co runs 1st advertisement for Army operators, receives 7,000 applicants
41 suffragists are arrested in front of White House
41 suffragists are arrested in front of White House
British occupy Tel Aviv and Jaffa
Tel Aviv, officially Tel Aviv-Yafo, and also known as Tel Aviv-Jaffa, is the most populous city in the Gush Dan metropolitan area of Israel.
Sigma Alpha Rho, a Jewish high school fraternity, is founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Sigma Alpha Rho, a Jewish high school fraternity, is founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
First successful use of a tank in battle at the Battle of Cambrai in World War I as Britain uses the new technology to b
First successful use of a tank in battle at the Battle of Cambrai in World War I as Britain uses the new technology to break through German lines
Nine police officers and one civilian are killed when a bomb explodes at the Milwaukee, Wisconsin police headquarters bu
Nine police officers and one civilian are killed when a bomb explodes at the Milwaukee, Wisconsin police headquarters building.
Sigmund Romberg's revue "Over the Top" premieres in New York
Sigmund Romberg's revue "Over the Top" premieres in New York
The Supreme Allied War Council meets at Quai d'Orsay, Paris, and at Versailles to draft war aims and resolutions
The Supreme Allied War Council meets at Quai d'Orsay, Paris, and at Versailles to draft war aims and resolutions
Han Yong-woon, finds Zen awakening at Osean Monastery, Korea
Han Yong-woon, finds Zen awakening at Osean Monastery, Korea
After nearly 20 years of planning and construction, the Quebec Bridge finally opens to traffic after two prior collapses
After nearly 20 years of planning and construction, the Quebec Bridge finally opens to traffic after two prior collapses
Austro-German Forces launch an offensive against the Italians on the western end of their line, around Asiago
The Kerensky offensive, also called the summer offensive, the June offensive in Russia, or the July offensive in Western historiography, took place from 1 July [O.S. 18 June] to 19 July [O.S.
French munition ship SS Mont Blanc collides with Norwegian SS Imo in Halifax harbour, Canada, resulting explosion kills
French munition ship SS Mont Blanc collides with Norwegian SS Imo in Halifax harbour, Canada, resulting explosion kills at least 1,700 and injures more than 9,000 people - world’s largest pre-atomic explosion [1]
British forces under General Allenby capture Jerusalem
Field Marshal Edmund Henry Hynman Allenby, 1st Viscount Allenby, (23 April 1861 – 14 May 1936) was a senior British Army officer and imperial governor.
13 black soldiers hanged for participation in Houston riot
13 black soldiers hanged for participation in Houston riot
Boys Town, an orphanage for boys, is founded by Father Edward Flanagan in Omaha, Nebraska
Boys Town, an orphanage for boys, is founded by Father Edward Flanagan in Omaha, Nebraska
UFA, Universal Film AG, forms in Germany
UFA, Universal Film AG, forms in Germany
Moldavian Republic declares independence from Russia
Moldavian Republic declares independence from Russia
1st NHL game played on artificial ice in Toronto
The Toronto Maple Leafs, officially the Toronto Maple Leaf Hockey Club and colloquially known as the Leafs, are a professional ice hockey team based in Toronto.
A second nationwide referendum on military conscription is rejected by the Australian public
A second nationwide referendum on military conscription is rejected by the Australian public
Flanders declares its independence, under Pieter Tack
Flanders declares its independence, under Pieter Tack
Three British warships come close to Holland
Three British warships come close to Holland
"Why Marry," the first drama to win a Pulitzer Prize, premieres in NYC
"Why Marry," the first drama to win a Pulitzer Prize, premieres in NYC
1st NHL defensemen to score a goal: Toronto Maple Leaf Harry Cameron
1st NHL defensemen to score a goal: Toronto Maple Leaf Harry Cameron
-32°F (-36°C) in Mountain City, Tennessee (state record)
-32°F (-36°C) in Mountain City, Tennessee (state record)
Dutch Social-democratic trade union NVV counts 159,450 members
Dutch Social-democratic trade union NVV counts 159,450 members
Famous Births
birth
Ernest Borgnine is born
Ernest Borgnine, American actor, known for american actor, was born on 1917-01-24. Ernest Borgnine was an American actor whose career spanned over six decades.
birth
Zhang Chunqiao is born
Zhang Chunqiao, Chinese member of the gang of four, known for member of the gang of four, was born on 1917-02-01. Zhang Chunqiao was a Chinese political theorist, writer, and politician.
birth
Zsa Zsa Gabor is born
Zsa Zsa Gabor, American hungarian-american socialite and actress, known for hungarian-american socialite and actress, was born on 1917-02-06.
birth
Sidney Sheldon is born
Sidney Sheldon, American writer, known for american writer, was born on 1917-02-11. Sidney Sheldon (February 11, 1917 – January 30, 2007) was an American writer.
birth
Anthony Burgess is born
Anthony Burgess, English writer and composer, known for english writer and composer, was born on 1917-02-25.
birth
Dinah Shore is born
Dinah Shore, American singer and actress, known for american singer and actress, was born on 1917-03-01.
birth
Desi Arnaz is born
Desi Arnaz, American cuban-american musician, actor, producer and television studio head, known for cuban-american musician, actor, producer and television studio head, was born on 1917-03-02.
birth
Ella Fitzgerald is born
Ella Fitzgerald, American musician, known for american jazz singer, was born on 1917-04-25.
birth
I. M. Pei is born
I. M. Pei, American athlete, known for chinese-american architect, was born on 1917-04-26.
birth
Betty Comden is born
Betty Comden, American musician, known for american dramatist and lyricist, was born on 1917-05-03.
birth
John F. Kennedy is born
John F. Kennedy is born
birth
Dean Martin is born
Dean Martin, American singer and actor, known for american singer and actor, was born on 1917-06-07. Dean Martin was an American singer, actor, comedian and television host.
birth
Katharine Graham is born
Katharine Graham, American newspaper publisher, known for american newspaper publisher, was born on 1917-06-16.
birth
Lena Horne is born
Lena Horne, American singer, actress, dancer and activist, known for american singer, actress, dancer and activist, was born on 1917-06-30.
birth
Phyllis Diller is born
Phyllis Diller, American comedian and actress, known for american comedian and actress, was born on 1917-07-17.
birth
Whipper Billy Watson is born
Whipper Billy Watson is born
birth
Ferdinand Marcos is born
Ferdinand Marcos is born
birth
Red Auerbach is born
Red Auerbach, American athlete, known for american basketball coach and executive, was born on 1917-09-20.
birth
Billy Conn is born
Billy Conn, American athlete, known for american boxer, was born on 1917-10-08. William David Conn (October 8, 1917 – May 29, 1993) was an American professional boxer and Light Heavyweight Champion…
birth
Joan Fontaine is born
Joan Fontaine, American actress, known for british actress, was born on 1917-10-22.
birth
Bobby Locke is born
Bobby Locke is born
birth
Jack Lynch is born
Jack Lynch is born
Notable Deaths
death
George Dewey dies
George Dewey us navy admiral, known for us navy admiral, died on 1917-01-16. George Dewey (December 26, 1837 – January 16, 1917) was Admiral of the Navy, the only person in United States history to…
death
Scott Joplin dies
Scott Joplin, American composer and pianist, known for american composer and pianist, died on 1917-04-01. Scott Joplin (November 24, 1868 – April 1, 1917) was an American composer and pianist.
death
Auguste Rodin dies
Auguste Rodin, French sculptor, known for french sculptor, died on 1917-11-17. François Auguste René Rodin was a French sculptor generally considered the founder of modern sculpture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened in 1917?
- In 1917, there were 173 significant historical events. Notable events include Sculptor Auguste Rodin (76) weds Rose Beuret, First major strike of the Russian "February Revolution" starts at the giant Putilov factory in Petrograd [NS=Mar 3], First jazz records are recorded: "Dixie Jazz Band One Step" and "Livery Stable Blues" by the Original Dixieland Jass Ban.
- Who was born in 1917?
- 22 notable figures were born in 1917, including Ernest Borgnine is born, Zhang Chunqiao is born, Zsa Zsa Gabor is born.
- Who died in 1917?
- 3 notable figures passed away in 1917, including George Dewey dies, Scott Joplin dies, Auguste Rodin dies.