What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

Donald Wandrei

Author and poet, collaborated on Cthulhu Mythos
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1987 37 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to weird fiction and poetry. Co-founded the San Francisco Science Fiction Conference and published numerous poems and short stories. Collaborated with H.P. Lovecraft and contributed to the Cthulhu Mythos. Published works include 'The Eye and the Finger' and 'The Dark Muse'. Made substantial contributions to the genre through both writing and editing, creating a lasting legacy in speculative literature.

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Sylvester "Pat" Weaver

Television broadcaster and producer
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 22 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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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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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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Francis Cherry

Governor of Arkansas
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1965 59 years ago — 57 years old

Served as the 35th Governor of Arkansas from 1955 to 1967. Implemented several initiatives addressing educational reforms and infrastructure improvements in the state. Pursued legal and political careers after graduation from law school. Contributed to the establishment of various policies aimed at enhancing the welfare of Arkansans.

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Robert Ardrey

Playwright and screenwriter of Africa
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1980 45 years ago — 72 years old

An American-South African author, playwright, and screenwriter, made significant contributions to literature and theater. Wrote notable works that explored themes of human evolution and social behavior. Worked extensively in screenplay writing, with involvement in films and television that reflected these interests. Throughout the career, engaged in discussions surrounding the nature of humanity and its development, particularly through narratives that intersected with scientific inquiry and dramatic storytelling. The exploration of human instincts became a central theme in writings, influencing both fiction and documentary approaches.

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Leela Majumdar

Indian author, noted children's literature
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2007 17 years ago — 99 years old

An influential figure in Indian literature, authored numerous children’s books that contributed significantly to vernacular literature. Played a crucial role in promoting children's literature in Bengali and was involved in education as a teacher and academic. Her storytelling often reflected cultural themes and values important to Indian society. Many of her works have been translated into several languages, making them accessible to a wider audience.

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Sedad Hakkı Eldem

Turkish architect of modern buildings
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1988 36 years ago — 80 years old

Designed prominent modernist structures in Turkey throughout the 20th century. Contributed significantly to the development of architecture in Turkey by integrating traditional styles with contemporary designs. Served as a professor at Istanbul Technical University, influencing future generations of architects. Eldem's works include residential and civic buildings that reflect the cultural heritage of Turkey while employing modernist principles.

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Ernestine Gilbreth Carey

American author of 'Cheaper by the Dozen'
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
November 4th, 2006 18 years ago — 98 years old

An author collaborated with siblings on 'Cheaper by the Dozen', a memoir detailing the life of a large family. The book provided insight into the management philosophies of their parents, Frank B. Gilbreth and Lillian Moller Gilbreth, pioneers in motion study and time management. It was published in 1948 and became a bestseller, leading to adaptations in film and stage. Carey also wrote 'Belles on Their Toes', continuing the family's story and showcasing themes of family life and organization.

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