What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

Lawrence Wetherby

American politician and Governor of Kentucky
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1994 30 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the 48th Governor of Kentucky from 1950 to 1955. Played a significant role in overseeing the state's post-World War II recovery. Advocated for educational improvements and the enhancement of state highways. Participated in various initiatives to boost economic development in Kentucky during the mid-20th century.

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Gloria Holden

Actress known for 'Dracula's Daughter'
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1991 33 years ago — 83 years old

An English-American actress, primarily active during the 1930s to the 1950s, gained prominence in horror films. Appeared in several notable roles, most famously as the title character in 'Dracula's Daughter'. Contributed to the film industry through performances in various genres, including thrillers and dramas. Continued to act in theater productions and television until the late 1960s.

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Sylvester "Pat" Weaver

Television broadcaster and producer
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 23 years ago — 94 years old

Significant contributions to television broadcasting included pioneering a new format for the medium. Developed influential programs such as 'The Tonight Show' and 'Today', helping to shape the landscape of American television. Oversaw the establishment of the television operations for NBC, leading innovative programming strategies during the early years of television. Played a key role in launching several popular shows that defined early television.

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Bobby Dodd

American football coach at Georgia Tech
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1988 36 years ago — 80 years old

Served as head coach of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets from 1945 to 1966, leading the team to major successes in college football. Implemented innovative offensive strategies and fostered a strong team culture. Dodd's tenure included multiple bowl game appearances and a national championship in 1952. After retiring, continued to contribute to college football as an ambassador and advisor.

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Vera Atkins

British intelligence officer during WWII
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
June 24th, 2000 24 years ago — 92 years old

Served as an intelligence officer in the Special Operations Executive during World War II. Focused on recruiting and training agents for missions in occupied Europe. Contributed to the establishment of the French Resistance network. Played a key role in the post-war investigation of the fate of agents who disappeared during their missions.

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Hopper Levett

English cricketer with notable performances
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1995 29 years ago — 87 years old

An English cricketer, achievements included playing for Kent County Cricket Club during the 1920s. Competed in England's first-class matches and showed considerable skill as a batsman and bowler. Engaged in the game during an era that laid the foundations for modern cricket.

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George Oppen

American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1984 40 years ago — 76 years old

An American poet and author, associated with the Objectivist movement in poetry, contributed significantly to modernist literature. Oppen's work often explored themes of politics and reality, reflecting a commitment to social justice. His poetry collections include 'Discrete Series' and 'Of Being Numerous,' the latter winning the Pulitzer Prize in 1976. Oppen's distinct style, characterized by precision and economy of language, left a lasting influence on modern poetry.

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Fred Gipson

Journalist and author; 'Old Yeller' author
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1973 51 years ago — 65 years old

A journalist and author, contributed to American literature through writing novels that often featured themes of rural life. The most notable work includes 'Old Yeller', published in 1956, which tells the story of a boy and his dog in Texas during the 1860s. This novel received critical acclaim and was adapted into a successful Disney film in 1960. In addition to novels, also wrote short stories and articles for various publications, adding to the literary landscape of the mid-20th century. The storytelling quality captured the voice and experiences of the American South.

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Edward Underdown

English actor and jockey
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1989 35 years ago — 81 years old

An accomplished actor and jockey, this individual contributed to the film and television industry as well as the sport of horse racing. In acting, prominence arose through participation in productions such as the films 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and 'The Ladykillers'. The theatrical career also included notable work on stage, showcasing talent in various London venues. As a jockey, success included riding winners in several prestigious races before transitioning fully to acting. The unique blend of talents in both acting and horse racing demonstrated versatility in performances across different media.

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