What Happened This Year 1908

Born in 1908

Franz Stangl

Austrian SS officer and concentration camp commandant
Born
March 26th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1971 53 years ago — 63 years old

An Austrian SS officer served as the commandant of the Sobibor and Treblinka extermination camps during World War II. Instrumental in the implementation of the 'Final Solution,' oversaw the murder of thousands of Jewish prisoners. After the war, fled to South America, living under an alias. Captured in Brazil in 1967 and extradited to West Germany, faced trial for his role in the Holocaust.

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Dennis O'Keefe

American actor and screenwriter
Born
March 29th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1908, this American actor and screenwriter gained recognition during the mid-20th century. O'Keefe's career included roles in various films and television series, becoming a familiar face in the entertainment industry. He achieved success as a leading man in films, particularly in the crime and mystery genres. Notable works include performances in 'Between Two Worlds' and 'A Night at Earl Carroll's'. His contributions to the screenwriting field further complemented his acting career, showcasing his versatility within the industry.

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Arthur O'Connell

American actor with Oscar nomination
Born
March 29th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1981 43 years ago — 73 years old

Acted in theater and film throughout a lengthy career, gaining notable recognition for performances in major productions. Featured in films such as 'Marty', which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, and made appearances in popular TV shows during the 1950s and 1960s, including 'The Twilight Zone'. Worked extensively in stage productions prior to focusing on film and television, contributing to the golden age of entertainment. His versatility allowed for a wide range of roles, from dramatic to comedic.

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Red Norvo

Vibraphone player and jazz composer
Born
March 31st, 1908 116 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1999 25 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent American vibraphone player and composer, this musician played a significant role in the development of jazz. Active from the 1920s through the 1980s, collaborated with various jazz greats, including Charlie Parker and Billie Holiday. Contributed to the popularization of the vibraphone in jazz music and was involved in bands such as the Red Norvo Trio. Recorded numerous albums that showcased innovative approaches to rhythm and improvisation.

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Abraham Maslow

Psychologist and creator of Maslow's hierarchy
Born
April 1st, 1908 116 years ago
Died
June 8th, 1970 54 years ago — 62 years old

A psychologist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of psychology through the development of a theory characterized by a hierarchy of needs. This framework suggested that individuals are motivated by a series of needs that range from basic physiological requirements to self-actualization. The hierarchy has had wide applications across various fields including psychology, education, and management. Additionally, engaged in humanistic psychology, focusing on personal growth and self-improvement rather than a solely pathological perspective.

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Harlow Rothert

Shot Putter and Lawyer
Born
April 1st, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 89 years old

Competed in shot put and became a prominent athlete in American track and field. Participated in the 1932 Summer Olympics held in Los Angeles, representing the United States. Had a successful career in law after retiring from athletics. Engaged in academic pursuits that contributed to understanding sports law and governance, influencing future generations of athletes and legal practitioners.

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Buddy Ebsen

Actor in The Beverly Hillbillies
Born
April 2nd, 1908 116 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2003 21 years ago — 95 years old

An American actor and dancer, began a career in show business with dancing and performing in vaudeville. Gained prominence in the 1960s with the role of Jed Clampett on the television series The Beverly Hillbillies. Initially cast as the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz, developed a severe allergic reaction to the makeup and had to be replaced. Also known for roles in television series like Barnaby Jones. Continued to work in film and television until the late 1990s.

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Herbert von Karajan

Austrian conductor and prominent orchestra manager
Born
April 5th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1989 35 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent conductor, notable for leadership of the Berlin Philharmonic and Vienna State Opera. Oversaw numerous recordings that shaped classical music from the 1950s through the 1980s. Established a distinct style characterized by clarity and precision. Developed a reputation for ambitious projects, including operas and symphonic works, often collaborating with leading orchestras and soloists.

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Bette Davis

Academy Award-winning actress
Born
April 5th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1989 35 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent American actress, celebrated for versatile performances in film and theater. Achievements include two Academy Awards for Best Actress, awarded for roles in 'Dangerous' (1935) and 'Jezebel' (1938). Contributed to Hollywood's Golden Age and became a pioneer for actresses, advocating for stronger female roles. Notably starred in 'All About Eve' (1950) and 'Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?' (1962), leaving a lasting legacy in film history.

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