What Happened This Year 1948

People Who Died in 1948

Seishirō Itagaki

Japanese general and military leader
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1948 76 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent general in the Imperial Japanese Army, served as a military leader during critical periods leading up to and including World War II. Played significant roles in military strategies and operations in China. Contributed to the Japanese military's expansionist policies during the conflict. Held various high-ranking positions within the army, influencing military doctrine and engagement. After the war, faced prosecution as a war criminal. Died in 1948 while still engaged in post-war trials.

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Kenji Doihara

Japanese General during World War II
Born
1883 142 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1948 76 years ago — 65 years old

Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Played a significant role in military operations in Manchuria and was involved in the planning and execution of campaigns in China. After the war, faced prosecution for war crimes and was tried at the International Military Tribunal for the Far East. Died in 1948 while in custody.

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Kōki Hirota

Japanese diplomat and 32nd Prime Minister
Born
1878 147 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1948 76 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the 32nd Prime Minister of Japan from 1948 until death in 1948. Held various diplomatic roles throughout a political career that spanned over three decades. Played a role in Japan's engagement with international diplomacy, especially during the tumultuous years following World War II. Advocated for Japan's post-war reconstruction and established relationships with other nations amidst political challenges.

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Heitarō Kimura

Japanese general during WWII
Born
1888 137 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1948 76 years ago — 60 years old

Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Played a significant role in various military campaigns, particularly in the defense of Japan's interests in the Pacific. Oversaw operations in China and participated in key battles that shaped the course of the war in the region. His military strategies and decisions contributed to the dynamics of the conflict.

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Akira Mutō

Japanese general during WWII
Born
1883 142 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1948 76 years ago — 65 years old

Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Played a significant role in the Japanese campaign in the Philippines. Participated in various military operations and was involved in strategic planning for the Japanese forces. Post-war, faced arrest and was tried as a war criminal during the International Military Tribunal for the Far East.

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Iwane Matsui

Japanese general during World War II
Born
1878 147 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1948 76 years ago — 70 years old

A general in the Imperial Japanese Army, played a significant role during World War II. Led the Japanese forces during the Nanking Massacre in 1937, which resulted in numerous casualties and atrocities. His leadership in China and subsequent military actions contributed to Japan's expansionist efforts. After the war, faced trial for war crimes due to actions taken during the conflict, resulting in a sentence and execution in 1948.

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Malcolm Campbell

Race car driver and world speed record holder
Born
March 11th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1948 76 years ago — 63 years old

Acclaimed as a race car driver, this individual set multiple world speed records in the early 20th century. Competed primarily on land and achieved a notable milestone by becoming the first person to surpass the 300 mph mark in a car. The land speed records were established using vehicles such as the Blue Bird and the latest models from the Auto Union. The pursuit of speed led to significant advancements in automotive engineering during this era.

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Percy Sherwell

Cricketer and tennis player for South Africa
Born
August 17th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 68 years old

This individual excelled in both cricket and tennis during the early 20th century. Represented South Africa in cricket, earning recognition for performances in Test matches. Participated in tennis at a high level, contributing to the sport's development in the region. Competed in several notable tournaments and maintained a reputation for skill in both fields.

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Matthew Charlton

Australian miner and politician
Born
March 15th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 82 years old

Played a pivotal role in Australian politics during the early 20th century. Served as a member of the Australian House of Representatives for the New South Wales electorate of Hunter from 1901 to 1917. Was a prominent advocate for workers' rights and improved conditions for miners. Contributed to the development of the Labour Party in Australia and held positions such as Minister for Defence and Minister for Repatriation.

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