What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

Yun Bong-gil

South Korean nationalist activist
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1932 93 years ago — 24 years old

An activist who played a significant role in the Korean independence movement against Japanese colonization. Executed for participating in the Shanghai Incident, which involved a bombing targeting Japanese officials in 1920. His actions were part of a broader resistance against Japanese oppression in Korea. The dedication to the cause of independence became inspirational for future generations of activists in Korea, maintaining a legacy of resistance against colonization.

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Millicent Lilian "Peg" Entwistle

British stage and screen actress
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1932 93 years ago — 24 years old

Spent early years performing on stage in Britain and the United States. Gained recognition for performances in theatrical productions, including 'Hamlet' and 'The Wild Duck'. Transitioned to films with a leading role in 'Thirteen Women'. Struggled with personal challenges and tragically took her own life in 1932. Posthumously, received attention as a symbol of the darker side of Hollywood.

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August Neo

Estonian wrestler, Olympic medalist
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1982 43 years ago — 74 years old

Competed in wrestling at the international level, securing a medal at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Participated in Greco-Roman wrestling events and earned a reputation as a skilled competitor in the sport. Spent most of his athletic career representing Estonia and became one of the notable figures in Estonian wrestling history.

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Gloria Holden

Actress known for 'Dracula's Daughter'
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1991 35 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 118 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 24 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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Herman Wold

Economist and statistician; established structural econometrics
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1992 34 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent economist and statistician, contributed significantly to the development of structural econometrics. Emphasized the importance of models in understanding economic phenomena and introduced concepts regarding multivariate time series analysis. Held academic positions in both Norway and Sweden, influencing generations of economists and statisticians through teaching and research. Published numerous influential papers and worked extensively on the causal inference in econometric models.

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Frank Stanton

American businessman and media executive
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2006 19 years ago — 98 years old

Played a significant role in the development of the television industry. Served as president of CBS for over two decades, significantly shaping the network's programming and policies. Under leadership, CBS expanded its influence and became a major player in broadcasting, introducing many iconic shows. Contributed to the field of media through various strategies that prioritized quality content and innovation.

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Albert J. Ruffo

American lawyer and Mayor of San Jose
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2003 23 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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Myril Hoag

Baseball player for the New York Yankees
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1971 54 years ago — 63 years old

Played Major League Baseball primarily as an outfielder during the 1930s and 1940s. Hoag participated in the 1932 World Series with the New York Yankees. He also played for the Chicago White Sox and the Philadelphia Athletics. Over his career, he compiled a batting average of .287 and demonstrated strong fielding abilities. After retiring from playing, he transitioned into coaching. His contributions to the game were felt both on and off the field.

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