What Happened This Year 1948

People Who Died in 1948

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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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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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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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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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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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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James Baskett

American actor and singer in Disney films
Born
February 16th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 44 years old

Born in 1904, an American actor and singer achieved prominence in the entertainment industry. Gained recognition for voice and musical talents in the early 20th century. Portrayed the character of Uncle Remus in the Disney film 'Song of the South'. Received an Academy Award for his performance, becoming the first African American male to win an Oscar for acting. In addition to film work, performed in stage productions and radio programming, contributing to the cultural landscape of the era.

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Janus Djurhuus

Faroese poet and literary figure
Born
February 26th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 67 years old

Born in the Faroe Islands, became a prominent poet contributing significantly to Faroese literature. Influenced by natural landscapes and folklore, wrote several collections of poetry that celebrated the culture and history of the Faroe Islands. Also involved in politics, promoting the use of the Faroese language and cultural identity.

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