What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

A. L. Lloyd

English folk singer and collector
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1982 42 years ago — 74 years old

A folk singer and scholar focused on collecting and performing traditional English folk music. Contributed significantly to the folk revival in the mid-20th century, engaging audiences through authentic interpretations of traditional songs. Released numerous albums showcasing a blend of traditional and original compositions. Actively participated in the folk music community, influencing fellow musicians and shaping the genre's development during this period.

Continue Reading

Red Barber

American sportscaster and announcer
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1992 32 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent sportscaster, this individual became one of the first voices of baseball on radio and television. Worked for the Cincinnati Reds before moving to the Brooklyn Dodgers. Served as a broadcaster for the New York Yankees, covering the team during notable seasons. Gained recognition for the signature phrase 'Oh, doctor!' and provided play-by-play commentary that shaped the understanding of the game for audiences. Received the Ford C. Frick Award in 1978, acknowledging contributions to baseball broadcasting.

Continue Reading

Behçet Kemal Çağlar

Turkish poet and politician
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
October 24th, 1969 55 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent figure in Turkish literature and politics, the individual was a significant contributor to poetry with a focus on themes of nationalism and modernity. Engaging in leftist politics, active participation in various political movements marked the career. The work 'Göl Saatleri' remains a critical piece in Turkish poetry, reflecting on social and political issues. Additionally, involvement in the Turkish parliamentary system shaped public discourse on literature and art. The life's work encompassed both creative expression and civic engagement, cementing a legacy within two realms.

Continue Reading

Claude Lévi-Strauss

Anthropologist, Structuralism founder
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
October 30th, 2009 15 years ago — 101 years old

Contributed significantly to anthropology and ethnology, particularly through the development of structuralism. Explored the underlying structures of human thought and culture. Worked on various aspects of cultural phenomena, including myths, kinship, and social practices, particularly in the context of indigenous cultures. Published influential works, such as 'Tristes Tropiques' and 'The Savage Mind', which reshaped the understanding of anthropological methodology and theory.

Continue Reading

Jacques Massu

French general and military leader
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2002 22 years ago — 94 years old

A French general gained prominence during the Algerian War of Independence. Commanded paratroopers known for their decisive actions in major battles, particularly in the Battle of Algiers, which showcased unconventional warfare strategies. After the war, played influential roles in the French military and politics, advocating for modernization and integration of military structures. Served as a military advisor during the French intervention in the Suez Crisis. Retired from active duty with the rank of general and became a prominent figure in French defense discussions.

Continue Reading

Carlos Arias Navarro

Spanish politician, Prime Minister
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1989 35 years ago — 81 years old

Served as Prime Minister of Spain from 1974 to 1976 during the final years of the Franco regime. Focused on maintaining stability in a politically turbulent period leading toward Spain's transition to democracy. Promoted certain reforms aimed at economic modernization. Oversaw the introduction of limited political openings but faced opposition from various political factions. Resigned in 1976 amid pressures for democratic reforms, following which Spain moved toward a parliamentary democracy.

Continue Reading

Ramon Vila Capdevila

Last of the Spanish Maquis leaders
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1963 61 years ago — 55 years old

Served as a leader in the Spanish Maquis, an anti-Franco guerrilla movement following the Spanish Civil War. Continued to resist the dictatorship in the mountainous regions of Spain well after the war had officially ended. Engaged in various military operations against the Spanish regime. Became a symbol of resistance against oppression. After years of struggle, Vila Capdevila was captured and assassinated by government forces.

Continue Reading

Menachem Avidom

Israeli composer, noted for choral music
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1994 30 years ago — 86 years old

Composer specialized in choral and orchestral music, integrating folk elements into works. Established a significant presence in the Israeli music scene, contributing to the development of contemporary Hebrew choral repertoire. Served as a conductor and educator, impacting the next generation of musicians. Many compositions reflect the cultural heritage of Israel, often performed by various ensembles.

Continue Reading

İhsan Sabri Çağlayangil

Turkish lawyer and foreign minister
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1993 31 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 20th Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey from 1971 to 1972. Had a significant role in Turkish diplomacy and international relations during his tenure. Contributed to various legal and political reforms in Turkey. Advocated for Turkey's membership in the European Economic Community. Also held the position of Minister of Justice, influencing legal frameworks in the country.

Continue Reading