What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

Oskar Schindler

Businessman and Holocaust rescuer
Born
April 28th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1974 50 years ago — 66 years old

A businessman of Czech-German descent, played a significant role during World War II by employing Jewish workers in his factories, thereby saving them from deportation to concentration camps. Schindler initially aimed for profit but later shifted focus to humanitarian efforts. His actions led to the preservation of over a thousand Jewish lives. After the war, he faced challenges in his business dealings and lived in various countries before his death.

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Ethel Catherwood

High Jumper and Javelin Thrower
Born
April 28th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 79 years old

Competed primarily in high jump and javelin throw during the 1920s. Won a gold medal in high jump at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, becoming the first Canadian woman to achieve Olympic success in athletics. Set several national records in high jump, showcasing exceptional skill and technique. Retired from competitive athletics shortly thereafter and later became involved in coaching and promoting sports for women.

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Jack Williamson

American author of science fiction
Born
April 29th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2006 18 years ago — 98 years old

Contributed significantly to the science fiction genre through both writing and academia. Authored numerous novels and short stories, with several works exploring themes of technology and the future. Held a long-term academic position and influenced generations of writers and readers in the field. His notable works include 'The Humanoids' and 'Demon Country'.

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Frank Robert Miller

Canadian Air Marshal and politician
Born
April 30th, 1908 116 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.

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Eve Arden

Actress and star of 'Our Miss Brooks'
Born
April 30th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1990 34 years ago — 82 years old

An American actress, recognized for a career that spanned several decades in film and television. Gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s, particularly through the role of Connie Brooks in the popular radio and television series 'Our Miss Brooks'. Appeared in notable films such as 'Mildred Pierce', receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Also featured in television series such as 'The Mothers-In-Law' and 'The Golden Girls'. Arden's contributions to the entertainment industry included work in both comedic and dramatic roles, securing her status as a significant figure in Hollywood.

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Bjarni Benediktsson

Icelandic Prime Minister and law professor
Born
April 30th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1970 54 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent politician and legal expert, served as the 13th Prime Minister of Iceland from 1959 to 1963. Contributed to shaping Iceland's legal and political landscape through a long career in public service. Involved in the establishment of several key policies and legislation during his tenure. Held various roles in government, including Minister of Justice, where significant legal reforms were undertaken.

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Giovannino Guareschi

Italian journalist and author of 'Don Camillo'
Born
May 1st, 1908 116 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1968 56 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1908, an Italian journalist and author gained recognition for creating the character Don Camillo, featured in a series of stories that explored the dynamics between a Catholic priest and a Communist mayor in a small Italian village. The stories not only provided social commentary on post-World War II Italy but also showcased his wit and storytelling abilities. Published during the 1940s and 1950s, the 'Don Camillo' tales became immensely popular, leading to adaptations in film and television, solidifying their status in Italian culture.

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Billy Jurges

Baseball player and manager
Born
May 9th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 89 years old

A professional baseball player and manager, this individual played primarily as a shortstop. Competing in Major League Baseball from 1929 to 1949, he played most notably for the Chicago Cubs and the New York Giants. Transitioning into management, he led the Chicago Cubs. A significant contributor to the game, his career includes memorable moments and leadership roles in baseball.

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Carl Albert

American politician, 54th Speaker of House
Born
May 10th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2000 25 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent American lawyer and politician, served as the 54th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1971 to 1977. Albert represented Oklahoma's 3rd congressional district and played a significant role in legislative matters during a transformative era in American politics. His tenure included important issues such as consumer protection and civil rights. He focused on rural development and education and was an influential figure in transition discussions concerning the leadership of the House. Albert was particularly involved in the Watergate scandal and its aftermath, ensuring accountability in government. He retired from Congress in 1977 after 30 years of service.

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