What Happened This Year 1908

People Who Died in 1908

Jean Albert Gaudry

Geologist and paleontologist, stratigraphy
Born
September 16th, 1827 197 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1908 116 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed significantly to geology and paleontology. Specialized in stratigraphy and organized fossil records. Published works on French Tertiary fossils that expanded the understanding of earth's geological history. Served as a professor at the University of Paris and held key roles in geological societies. His research involved extensive field studies and detailed analysis of fossilized remains, leading to important discoveries in extinct species.

Continue Reading

Nishinoumi Kajirō I

Japanese sumo wrestler, 16th Yokozuna
Born
February 19th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1908 116 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1855, this individual became a prominent sumo wrestler, achieving the rank of Yokozuna, the highest title in the sport. Rising to fame during the late Edo period, the wrestler competed fiercely and displayed significant skill on the dohyo. The sumo career spanned several years, during which victories and accolades solidified a legacy in Japanese wrestling history. Retiring from active competition, the wrestler remained involved in the sport as a coach, influencing the next generation of athletes. The contributions to sumo wrestling have been recognized through various means, highlighting the achievements in a competitive environment.

Continue Reading

Augustus Le Plongeon

Historian and photographer of Maya culture
Born
May 4th, 1825 199 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1908 116 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of Maya civilization through extensive archaeological research and photography. Conducted critical studies of Mayan ruins, particularly in Yucatán, Mexico, and argued that the Maya were the descendants of ancient Egyptians. Published several works, including 'Sacred Mysteries Among the Mayas and the Quiches' which presented theories on the connections between ancient civilizations. Assisted in documenting the architectural features and hieroglyphics found at various sites. Established a reputation as an early advocate for the preservation of archaeological sites.

Continue Reading

American Horse

Native American tribal leader and educator
Born
1840 185 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1908 116 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent Native American leader, contributed to the education of Native youth and advocated for their rights. Served as a leader of the Oglala Lakota tribe, playing a crucial role in the preservation of cultural heritage and traditions. Efforts included the establishment of institutions aimed at improving educational opportunities for Native Americans, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity alongside academic success. Actively participated in discussions concerning Native American welfare and land rights.

Continue Reading

Thomas-Alfred Bernier

Canadian politician and journalist
Born
August 15th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1908 116 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1844, a Canadian journalist, lawyer, and politician, played a significant role in provincial politics. Served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Manitoba. Contributed to various public initiatives and was involved in legislative reforms. His work in journalism focused on political commentary and advocacy for social issues, which shaped local discourse.

Continue Reading

Henry Chadwick

Historian and author on baseball
Born
October 5th, 1824 200 years ago
Died
1908 117 years ago — 84 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of baseball as a sport in America. Played a pivotal role in the early organization of baseball statistics and the establishment of the game's historical narrative. Authored several books that detailed the history and rules of baseball, putting emphasis on the sport's evolution in the 19th century. His work laid the foundation for modern sports journalism and statistical analysis in baseball.

Continue Reading

Victorien Sardou

French playwright of 'Cyrano de Bergerac'
Born
September 5th, 1831 193 years ago
Died
1908 117 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent French playwright, recognized for contributions to the genre of drama in the late 19th century. Produced several successful plays, many of which examined themes of love and societal norms. Achieved significant acclaim with works that appealed to both the public and critics alike. Played a notable role in shaping the modern theater scene in France. Engaged with various theatrical styles and experimented with structure and character development, influencing subsequent generations of playwrights.

Continue Reading

Lester Allan Pelton

American inventor of the Pelton wheel
Born
September 5th, 1829 195 years ago
Died
1908 117 years ago — 79 years old

An American inventor contributed significantly to hydropower technology. Developed the Pelton wheel, a turbine design that efficiently harnesses energy from flowing water. This innovation played a crucial role in the expansion of hydroelectric power generation in the late 19th century. Established the Pelton Water Wheel Company in 1878 to manufacture his invention, which remains widely used in various applications worldwide. Also involved in several legal disputes over patent rights, ensuring the protection of his innovations.

Continue Reading

Dickey Pearce

Baseball player and manager, 19th century
Born
February 29th, 1836 189 years ago
Died
1908 117 years ago — 72 years old

Played as a shortstop and later managed various teams in Major League Baseball. Career spanned from 1856 to 1878, participating in both professional and amateur baseball. Played for the Brooklyn Atlantics and the Brooklyn Grays, contributing to the development of the shortstop position. Managed the Brooklyn Bridegrooms in the 1890s, influencing the early coaching practices in baseball.

Continue Reading