What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

Albert J. Ruffo

American lawyer and Mayor of San Jose
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2003 22 years ago — 95 years old

Served as the Mayor of San Jose from 1971 to 1975. Before the mayoral term, engaged in legal practice as a lawyer. Contributed to local community efforts and governance during his tenure. Played a role in various city initiatives aimed at urban development and public services in San Jose. After his mayoral term, continued involvement in political and civic activities in the region until his passing in 2003.

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Fyodor Okhlopkov

Russian sniper during World War II
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1968 56 years ago — 60 years old

Served as a sergeant and sniper in the Soviet Army during World War II. Achieved significant recognition for marksmanship and effectiveness in combat. Participated in several key battles on the Eastern Front. After the war, continued service in the military and contributed to sniper training.

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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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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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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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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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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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Sarit Thanarat

Thai field marshal and Prime Minister
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1963 61 years ago — 55 years old

Field marshal and politician served as the 11th Prime Minister of Thailand from 1959 until death in 1963. Led a military coup in 1957 that established a military government. Implemented various modernization programs and was influential in shaping Thai politics during the 1960s. His administration tightly controlled political opposition and promoted a pro-American stance, aligning Thailand with U.S. interests during the Cold War.

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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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