What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

Yousuf Karsh

Photographer, Portraits of Icons
Born
December 23rd, 1908 116 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 94 years old

An Armenian-Canadian photographer gained recognition for iconic portrait photography. After immigrating to Canada, established a studio in Ottawa and became a leading portrait photographer, capturing images of significant figures in the 20th century. Published works include the book 'Karsh of Ottawa' and exhibited widely, influencing the genre of portraiture. Renowned for the powerful lighting and composition used in his portraits, which revealed the personalities of his subjects.

Continue Reading

Ernest L. Massad

American General and military leader
Born
December 25th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1993 32 years ago — 84 years old

Served as a general in the United States Army. Held significant command positions during the Vietnam War. His military career extended over three decades, with key roles in various operations and leadership training. Participated in efforts to modernize the Army, focusing on improved strategies and tactics.

Continue Reading

Quentin Crisp

English author and illustrator of 'The Naked Civil Servant'
Born
December 25th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1999 25 years ago — 90 years old

An author and illustrator gained recognition for the autobiographical work 'The Naked Civil Servant', which candidly depicted experiences as a gay man in mid-20th century Britain. The book's publication in 1968 drew considerable attention and was later adapted into a television film in 1975. Crisp's unique style and perspective contributed to the discourse on gender and sexuality in literature. He also published several other works, including 'Miss Crisp' and 'The Age of Consent', showcasing a distinctive voice and narrative approach. Later in life, emigrated to the United States, where continued to write and speak on various topics, influencing discussions on identity and society.

Continue Reading

Jo-Jo Moore

Baseball player for the New York Giants
Born
December 25th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 93 years old

Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder and was associated primarily with the New York Giants during the 1930s and 1940s. Made his debut in 1931 and became a regular player, noted for his speed and ability to get on base. Contributed to the team's success in the National League. Retired in 1947 after a decade-long career. Accumulated statistics that included a batting average of .291 and was recognized for defensive capabilities. Later transitioned into coaching and remained involved with baseball.

Continue Reading

Ralph Hill

American middle-distance runner
Born
December 26th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 86 years old

Competed in middle-distance running events, particularly excelling in the 1500 meters. Represented the United States in international competitions, including the Olympics. Achieved notable successes in the 1932 Los Angeles Olympic Games, finishing fourth in the 1500 meters. Established a strong presence in collegiate athletics while running for the University of Southern California.

Continue Reading

Lew Ayres

American actor in All Quiet on the Western Front
Born
December 28th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1996 28 years ago — 88 years old

An actor gained recognition for performance in the film All Quiet on the Western Front (1930). Worked in both film and television, with a career spanning several decades. Appeared in notable films including The Thin Man and the melodrama Johnny Belinda, earning an Academy Award nomination. In television, featured in the series Dr. Kildare. Later in career, became associated with advocacy for mental health awareness.

Continue Reading

Helmut Gollwitzer

Theologian and author of significant works
Born
December 29th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1993 32 years ago — 85 years old

A German theologian and author contributed to contemporary theology and church life. Gollwitzer worked as a professor of theology at the University of Munich. His writings focused on the relationship between faith and public life, especially in the context of post-World War II Germany. He became influential in discussions surrounding theology and social ethics, emphasizing the role of the church in society. Gollwitzer's work included reflections on God's presence in the modern world and the responsibilities of believers in addressing social issues. Throughout his career, he engaged deeply with both theological scholarship and practical concerns within the church.

Continue Reading

Magnus Pyke

English scientist and author
Born
December 29th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1992 32 years ago — 83 years old

A British scientist and author focused on various scientific topics, contributing to the public understanding of science through writings and television. Participated in numerous programs aimed at educating the public about science and technology. Published several books that discussed the principles of science in an accessible manner. Promoted the importance of scientific literacy in the general population.

Continue Reading

Simon Wiesenthal

Nazi hunter and author of 'The Murderers Among Us'
Born
December 31st, 1908 116 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2005 19 years ago — 96 years old

Born in Ukraine, played a significant role in the post-World War II hunt for Nazi war criminals. Established the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles, an organization dedicated to the memory of Holocaust victims and the pursuit of justice for crimes against humanity. Authored several books, including 'The Murderers Among Us', outlining his experiences and efforts in bringing perpetrators of the Holocaust to justice. Contributed to the identification and prosecution of numerous war criminals throughout Europe.

Continue Reading