What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

Rex Harrison

English actor in film and theater
Born
March 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1990 34 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1908, this English actor became prominent in both film and theater. The stage career included performances in plays such as 'Pygmalion' and 'The King and I'. In film, acclaimed roles included Professor Henry Higgins in 'My Fair Lady', which earned an Academy Award for Best Actor. Other notable films include 'Doctor Doolittle' and 'Cleopatra'. This actor's work spanned several decades, marked by critical acclaim and a significant contribution to the performing arts.

Continue Reading

Anna Magnani

Italian actress from Rome
Born
March 7th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1973 51 years ago — 65 years old

An acclaimed Italian actress took the film industry by storm with powerful performances. Born in Rome, she became a prominent figure in Italian cinema during the 1940s and 1950s. Recognized for her intense emotional range, she portrayed complex characters in various films. Notable works include 'Rome, Open City' and 'The Rose Tattoo', both of which showcased her remarkable talent. In 1955, she received an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in 'The Rose Tattoo', marking a significant milestone in her career. Her contributions to film dramatically influenced Italian neorealism and established her as a leading figure in the industry.

Continue Reading

Matti Sippala

Finnish javelin thrower, Olympic medalist
Born
March 11th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 89 years old

Competed in javelin throwing and represented Finland in international competitions. Achieved success at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, where earned a silver medal in javelin toss. Participated in the World Championships and various European events, showcasing athletic skill and technique.

Continue Reading

Rita Angus

New Zealand painter famous for landscapes
Born
March 12th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent painter in New Zealand, engaged in the development of modernist art. Focused on depicting the unique landscapes of New Zealand, particularly those of the Canterbury region. Emphasized the use of color and form to express the beauty and character of the environment. Worked primarily in the mid-20th century, creating a significant body of work that includes portraits and still life. Recognized as an important figure in New Zealand's art history, influencing future generations of artists.

Continue Reading

Walter Annenberg

Publisher and U.S. Ambassador to UK
Born
March 13th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2002 22 years ago — 94 years old

Annenberg served as a publisher and diplomat. In 1969, appointed as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom, he held the position until 1974. During his career, he established the Annenberg Foundation, which focused on education, arts, and communication. His work in publishing included ownership of the Triangle Publications, which published TV Guide and Seventeen magazine. Significant contributions were made to various educational and cultural institutions.

Continue Reading

Myrtle Bachelder

Chemist and Women's Army Corps officer
Born
March 13th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, holding a prominent position as an officer in the Women's Army Corps during World War II. Successfully managed laboratory operations and research projects that advanced scientific knowledge in various applications. Participated in military activities that integrated women into non-traditional roles, promoting the involvement of women in scientific disciplines.

Continue Reading

Ed Heinemann

Designer of military aircraft
Born
March 14th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1991 33 years ago — 83 years old

Involved in the design of several significant military aircraft during the 20th century. Contributed to the development of the Douglas A-4 Skyhawk and the Douglas SBD Dauntless, both of which played crucial roles in World War II and beyond. His work at Douglas Aircraft Company established a legacy in military aviation. Contributed to advancements in aerodynamic and engineering techniques.

Continue Reading

Maurice Merleau-Ponty

French philosopher, key work: Phenomenology
Born
March 14th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 53 years old

Contributed significantly to existentialism and phenomenology. Focused on the relationship between perception and being. Authored several influential texts, with 'Phenomenology of Perception' providing a foundation for contemporary philosophy of mind and cognitive science. Engaged in debates with other philosophers and expanded on the concepts of embodied experience. Held academic positions that facilitated the dissemination of existentialist thought.

Continue Reading

Phil Vincent

Engineer who founded Vincent Motorcycles
Born
March 14th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 71 years old

An English engineer and businessman established Vincent Motorcycles, offering innovations in motorcycle design and engineering. The company gained recognition for high-performance models like the Vincent Black Shadow during the mid-20th century. Commitment to quality and performance made the brand a prominent name in the motorcycle industry. Vincent played a crucial role in advancing motorcycle technology.

Continue Reading