What Happened This Year 1908
Born in 1908
Wes Ferrell
Accomplished baseball player and manager, recognized for participation in Major League Baseball during the 1920s and 1930s. Played primarily as a pitcher for teams including the Cleveland Indians, Boston Red Sox, and Washington Senators. Achieved two All-Star selections during a career that spanned from 1927 to 1941. Transitioned to managing, overseeing teams in the minor leagues and contributing to player development and team strategy.
Continue ReadingJulian Bell
A notable English poet and academic, produced significant literary works during the 20th century. Held the position of a lecturer and contributed to various literary debates and discussions. Explored themes of modernity and personal introspection, embedding a reflective quality in poetry. Published poetry collections that garnered attention within literary circles. Involved with university programs, influencing new generations of writers and poets.
Continue ReadingPeg Entwistle
Born in Wales and raised in the United States, a career in theater led to a brief but notable presence in early Hollywood films. Starred in the 1932 film 'Thirteen Women' and achieved recognition for her stage work, especially in productions such as 'The Wild Duck' on Broadway. Entwistle's life and tragic death in 1932 at the age of 24 garnered significant media attention and have since become a part of Hollywood lore.
Continue ReadingMarie Baron
Competed in swimming and diving events during the late 1920s. Participated in the 1928 Summer Olympics held in Amsterdam. Excelled in both swimming and diving disciplines, showcasing versatility in aquatic sports. Contributed to the early development of women's competitive swimming in the Netherlands.
Continue ReadingEugen Weidmann
Born in Germany, engaged in a life of crime that culminated in significant notoriety during the early 20th century. Involved in a series of violent crimes, Weidmann was ultimately convicted for multiple murders in France. His execution by guillotine in 1939 marked the last public guillotine execution in France, contributing to his legacy in criminal history.
Continue ReadingGeo Bogza
Contributed significantly to Romanian literature and journalism. Associated with the avant-garde movement, published the influential poetry collection 'Poemul Unu'. Worked as a journalist, frequently addressing social and political issues through various publications. Engaged in both literary and journalistic pursuits, reflecting on contemporary societal themes.
Continue ReadingMichael Maltese
An American screenwriter and composer, contributions focused on animated films during the Golden Age of Animation. Collaborated with Warner Bros. on several iconic cartoons featuring characters such as Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck. Wrote screenplays for classic works like 'What's Up Doc?' and 'Duck Dodgers in the 24th Century.' Also composed music for various animated shorts and features throughout his career.
Continue ReadingAmintore Fanfani
Served as the 32nd Prime Minister of Italy during the 1950s and 1960s. Played a significant role in the Italian political landscape, leading the Christian Democracy party. Held key governmental positions, including Minister of Education and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Instrumental in shaping post-war Italian policies and economic recovery, advocating for social welfare programs and economic reforms. Contributed to the establishment of Italy as a key player in European politics and integration.
Continue ReadingEdward Lansdale
Served in the United States Army during World War II, later became a prominent figure in the CIA. Played a significant role in counterinsurgency operations and psychological warfare during the Vietnam War. Contributed to the development of strategies that combined military and political efforts to combat communist influence in Southeast Asia. Authored several works on military strategy and counterinsurgency.
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