What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

Francisco Marto

Portuguese saint and visionary
Born
June 11th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1919 105 years ago — 10 years old

A Portuguese saint recognized for his role in the apparitions of Our Lady of Fátima in 1917. Alongside his sister and a cousin, experienced several visions and messages attributed to the Virgin Mary. These events were pivotal in the development of the Catholic devotion to Mary. Died at the young age of 10 due to influenza in 1919, shortly after the apparitions. Canonized by the Roman Catholic Church on May 13, 2017, marking the 100th anniversary of the first apparition.

Continue Reading

Karl Hein

German hammer thrower, Olympic medalist
Born
June 11th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 74 years old

Competed in the hammer throw, representing Germany in international athletics. Achieved significant success in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, securing a bronze medal. Dominated national competitions and set remarkable records in the sport during the 1930s. Contributed to the popularity and development of hammer throwing in Germany.

Continue Reading

Marina Semyonova

Ballerina and influential educator
Born
June 12th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 102 years old

Born in 1908, a prominent Russian ballerina and revered ballet teacher. Joined the Bolshoi Theatre, becoming a principal dancer and performed lead roles in productions such as 'Swan Lake' and 'The Nutcracker.' Played a significant role in the development of ballet pedagogy in the Soviet Union. Served as a professor at the Moscow State Academy of Choreography, influencing generations of dancers. Instrumental in establishing ballet's educational framework in Russia, shaping the future of ballet training.

Continue Reading

Otto Skorzeny

German SS officer and wartime commando
Born
June 12th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 67 years old

Served as an officer in the Waffen-SS during World War II. Gained notoriety for leading operations that included the rescue of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini in 1943. Commanded special forces units that conducted significant raids, often behind enemy lines. After the war, faced trials but evaded severe punishment, later working in various business ventures and maintaining a controversial legacy.

Continue Reading

Bud Collyer

Game show host and voice actor
Born
June 18th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1969 55 years ago — 61 years old

An American actor and game show host gained prominence in mid-20th century television. Collyer hosted popular game shows, including 'What's My Line?' and 'To Tell the Truth.' His contributions to the industry extended beyond hosting, as he provided the voice for the superhero Clark Kent in the long-running radio series 'The Adventures of Superman.' His career spanned several decades, reflecting adaptability in a changing entertainment landscape. Collyer was recognized for his ability to engage audiences through both performance and hosting duties.

Continue Reading

Stanley Knowles

Canadian politician and academic leader
Born
June 18th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1997 27 years ago — 88 years old

An academic and politician, this individual served as a Member of Parliament in Canada for more than two decades. Representing the NDP, he became a prominent figure in Canadian politics. His tenure included efforts to advance social welfare policy and drive discussions around national healthcare. Known for his commitment to education, he also held a significant role within the academic community, contributing to educational reforms and the development of university programs.

Continue Reading

Nedra Volz

Actress in 'The Muppet Show' and 'Diff'rent Strokes'
Born
June 18th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2003 22 years ago — 94 years old

An American actress gained recognition for roles in television and film. Volz appeared regularly on 'The Muppet Show' as part of the ensemble cast, showcasing comedic talent. In 'Diff'rent Strokes', she portrayed the character of Mrs. Garret, contributing to the show's popularity. Volz also made guest appearances on various series throughout her career, adding to her visibility in the entertainment industry. Her career spanned several decades, from the mid-20th century until her later years.

Continue Reading

Gus Schilling

American actor in The Big Broadcast
Born
June 20th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 49 years old

Active in the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for performances in film and television. Featured prominently in the comedy genre, often appearing in comedic roles alongside notable peers. Participated in several productions that contributed to the landscape of American entertainment during that era.

Continue Reading

Billy Werber

Baseball player and coach
Born
June 20th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2009 16 years ago — 100 years old

An American baseball player and coach played as a third baseman and outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1930 to 1942. Established a playing career primarily with the Philadelphia Athletics and the New York Yankees. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching, serving as a coach for several teams, including the University of New Mexico. Contributed to the development of players in college baseball.

Continue Reading