What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

Jim Folsom

American politician and Governor
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1987 37 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the 42nd Governor of Alabama. Folsom first assumed office in 1943, holding the position until 1947. Returned to governorship in 1955 for another term until 1959. Advocated for progressive reforms in education and state welfare programs. Known for engaging with the public and emphasizing the importance of infrastructure development.

Continue Reading

A. L. Lloyd

English folk singer and collector
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1982 43 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.

Continue Reading

Mika Waltari

Finnish author of 'Sinuhe the Egyptian'
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1979 46 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent Finnish author and translator, created notable works that explored historical and cultural themes. 'Sinuhe the Egyptian', published in 1945, remains a significant contribution to world literature, depicting the life of an ancient Egyptian physician. Waltari's ability to weave intricate narratives and rich historical detail garnered attention and admiration in literary circles. Besides fiction, engaged in translating various works, enhancing the understanding of different cultures through literature. Additionally held roles in academia, influencing future generations of writers and scholars.

Continue Reading

Myril Hoag

Baseball player for the New York Yankees
Born
1908 117 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.

Continue Reading

Jayanto Nath Chaudhuri

Indian Army General and Chief of Army Staff
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1983 42 years ago — 75 years old

Served as Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army from 1962 to 1966. Held the position of Military Governor of Hyderabad State from 1948 to 1949. Contributed to military leadership during the early years post-independence, overseeing significant military operations and reforms within the armed forces. Played a role in shaping the Indian Army's organizational structure and policies during a critical period in the nation’s history.

Continue Reading

Frank Stanton

American businessman and media executive
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2006 18 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.

Continue Reading

Peter Anders

German tenor and actor
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1954 71 years ago — 46 years old

Achieved recognition as a prominent German tenor and actor during the early to mid-20th century. Gained acclaim for performances at various opera houses, particularly in the roles of major operatic characters. Worked with renowned theatres, showcasing vocal talent in operatic and concert settings. Participated in numerous recordings that contributed to the appreciation of classical music. Collaborated with notable composers and conductors, enhancing the cultural landscape of German music.

Continue Reading

Herman Wold

Economist and statistician; established structural econometrics
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1992 33 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.

Continue Reading

August Neo

Estonian wrestler, Olympic medalist
Born
1908 117 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.

Continue Reading