What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

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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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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M. Karagatsis

Greek author and playwright
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1960 64 years ago — 52 years old

A prominent Greek author and playwright, contributed significantly to modern Greek literature. Explored themes of the human condition and societal issues through various literary forms. Wrote critically acclaimed plays and novels that are still studied today. Held a significant position in literary circles and influenced contemporary Greek playwrights and writers.

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Manos Katrakis

Greek actor in theater and film
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1984 40 years ago — 76 years old

Primarily active in the mid-20th century, this actor contributed significantly to Greek theater and film. The performer became a prominent figure in the dramatic arts, showcasing talent in various productions. Work included notable roles in classic plays and films, contributing to the cultural landscape of Greece during the 1950s and 1960s. His ability to portray complex characters resonated with audiences, elevating his status in the performing arts.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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