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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Hideki Tojo

Japanese general and Prime Minister
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1948 76 years ago — 64 years old

A Japanese general and politician, served as the 40th Prime Minister of Japan from 1941 to 1944 during World War II. Tojo played a central role in Japan’s military decisions during the conflict and was a leading figure in the Imperial Japanese Army. His tenure saw significant military operations in the Pacific, including the attack on Pearl Harbor. After Japan's surrender in 1945, Tojo was arrested by Allied forces, tried for war crimes, and executed in 1948.

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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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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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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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Marie Baron

Dutch swimmer and diver 1928 Olympics
Born
February 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 40 years old

Competed in swimming and diving events during the late 1920s. Participated in the 1928 Summer Olympics held in Amsterdam. Excelled in both swimming and diving disciplines, showcasing versatility in aquatic sports. Contributed to the early development of women's competitive swimming in the Netherlands.

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Francisco Rodrigues da Cruz

Portuguese priest and religious leader
Born
July 29th, 1859 165 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed to the religious landscape in Portugal. Was an influential priest during a time of social and political change. Focused on the spiritual needs of the community and engaged in various church reforms. Advocated for educational initiatives within the church, helping to establish institutions for learning and moral instruction.

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