What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

Peter Anders

German tenor and actor
Born
1908 118 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.

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Felix Knight

American actor and tenor known for Broadway
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1998 27 years ago — 90 years old

An actor and tenor, contributed significantly to musical theater. Gained recognition for performances in major productions. Featured in the original cast of 'The Boys from Syracuse' and appeared in operatic performances. Recorded numerous songs, showcasing vocal talent in both operatic and popular styles. Had a successful career in the 20th century.

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Sam Giancana

American mob boss involved in politics
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1975 50 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent mob boss, played a significant role in the Chicago Outfit during the mid-20th century. Involvement in various criminal enterprises included racketeering, gambling, and loan sharking. Giancana fostered relationships with political figures and celebrities, including alleged connections with the Kennedy family and involvement in the 1960 presidential election. His criminal activities and connections attracted the attention of law enforcement, leading to multiple investigations over the years. Giancana's life ended in 1975 under mysterious circumstances.

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Alberto Semprini

Pianist, composer, conductor of classical music
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1990 36 years ago — 82 years old

Acclaimed as a prominent pianist, composer, and conductor, contributions included performances in front of large audiences and recordings that showcased significant works. Semprini's arrangements and originals enriched the classical music landscape, leading to a notable presence on radio and television in the UK. His expertise in classical and popular forms allowed for a unique blend in performances, enhancing public appreciation for both genres. Through extensive concert tours, he brought music to diverse audiences. Semprini's legacy includes an enduring influence on aspiring musicians.

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Olav Hauge

Norwegian poet with acclaimed writings
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1994 31 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent poet from Norway, contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. Hauge's poetry often reflected themes of nature and the human condition, showcasing deep connections to rural life and personal experience. Published several poetry collections throughout a prolific career, with notable works including 'Dropar på steinar' and 'Largongen'. His literary contributions continue to be studied and celebrated in Norway and beyond.

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Bobby Dodd

American football coach at Georgia Tech
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1988 37 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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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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Gloria Holden

Actress known for 'Dracula's Daughter'
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1991 34 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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Herman Wold

Economist and statistician; established structural econometrics
Born
1908 118 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.

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