What Happened This Year 1908

People Who Died in 1908

François Coppée

French poet and author of 'Le Pater'
Born
January 26th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1908 116 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1842, this individual became a prominent French poet and author. With a background in literature and a penchant for depicting the struggles of everyday life, this writer gained recognition for both poetry and prose. The literary contributions spanned several genres, with significant works including 'Le Pater', a reflection on the Lord's Prayer, which resonated deeply with audiences. The author's engagement with themes of faith, love, and the human condition established a lasting legacy in French literature.

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Old Tom Morris

Scottish golfer and golf course architect
Born
June 16th, 1821 203 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1908 116 years ago — 86 years old

A significant figure in the history of golf, played a key role in the development of the sport in the 19th century. Contributed to the evolution of golf course design and was instrumental in shaping the Old Course at St Andrews. Competed in several tournaments, highlighted by winning the Open Championship four times. His work as a greenkeeper and architect set benchmarks for golf course design worldwide.

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Mirza Ghulam Ahmad

Indian religious leader and reformer
Born
February 13th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1908 116 years ago — 73 years old

An Indian religious leader founded the Ahmadiyya movement in Islam during the late 19th century. In 1889, established the community in the Punjab region, emphasizing a peaceful interpretation of Islam and the importance of social reform. Wrote extensively on religious and social issues, promoting a message of interfaith dialogue and understanding. Claimed to be the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, advocating for the revival of true Islamic teachings and the need for spiritual renewal among Muslims.

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Louis-Honoré Fréchette

Canadian poet and politician, notable author
Born
November 16th, 1839 185 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1908 116 years ago — 68 years old

Born in Quebec, a significant figure in Canadian literature and politics. Participated in the literary circles of the 19th century, contributing to the development of French-Canadian identity through poetry and prose. Elected to the House of Commons, served as a Liberal Party member, advocating for French language and culture. His works reflect themes of nationalism and the Quebec identity. His most celebrated collection, 'Les Oiseaux de malheur,' and other writings helped to establish a literary tradition in Canada.

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Allen Butler Talcott

American painter and educator
Born
April 8th, 1867 157 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1908 116 years ago — 41 years old

An influential painter and educator, this individual contributed to the American art scene in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He studied at the Art Students League of New York and became associated with notable art organizations. His teaching career included positions at various institutions where fine arts cultivated among students. This individual's work often focused on landscape and genre painting, promoting a distinctly American aesthetic during a transformative period in art history.

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Frederick Stanley

16th Earl of Derby, Governor General of Canada
Born
January 15th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1908 116 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the 6th Governor General of Canada from 1888 to 1893. Played a significant role in Canadian politics during his tenure. Participated in the development of the Stanley Cup, which later became the championship trophy for the National Hockey League. Held political positions in the United Kingdom, contributing to British political affairs in the late 19th century.

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Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov

Russian composer of orchestral works
Born
March 18th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1908 116 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1844, this Russian composer contributed extensively to the world of music. Significant contributions include the establishment of the Russian Nationalist School of music, advocating for the incorporation of Russian folk themes into classical compositions. Works include the symphonic suite 'Scheherazade', celebrated for its rich orchestration and narrative quality. Additionally, served as a professor at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, influencing many future composers.

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Grover Cleveland

American Lawyer and Politician
Born
March 18th, 1837 187 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1908 116 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the 22nd and 24th President of the United States. His non-consecutive terms marked him as the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms. Focused on issues such as political reform and opposition to high tariffs. Prior to his presidency, held the position of Governor of New York. Advocated for the principles of fiscal conservatism and honest government, which contributed to his presidential campaigns.

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Thomas Hill

American painter of landscape art
Born
September 11th, 1829 195 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1908 116 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1829, this American painter focused on landscapes, particularly those inspired by the natural beauty of California. This artist documented the changing American West and contributed to the Hudson River School movement, characterized by its detailed realism and focus on light. The prolific output included paintings that captured both the sweeping vistas and intimate scenes of nature. Works gained attention in art exhibitions, and he gained recognition as a landscape artist through various exhibitions in California and beyond. He later became a prominent figure in the artistic community in the region and mentored younger artists.

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