What Happened This Year 1948

People Who Died in 1948

Francis Kelley

Bishop; Diocese of Oklahoma City
Born
October 23rd, 1870 154 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 78 years old

Ordained a priest in 1897, served in various roles within the Catholic Church, including as the first bishop of the Diocese of Oklahoma City. Oversaw the establishment of numerous parishes and schools, contributing to the growth of the Catholic community in the region. Promoted social justice initiatives and worked on behalf of local Native American populations. His writings and public addresses reflected a commitment to both religious and community development.

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Edgar de Wahl

Linguist and creator of Volapük
Born
August 23rd, 1867 157 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 81 years old

A linguist and academic contributed to the development of constructed languages. Created Volapük, one of the first planned languages, which gained considerable attention in the late 19th century. Volapük aimed to facilitate international communication and was widely studied during its peak. Worked on linguistic theories and engaged with the linguistic community through publications and conferences. Held a passion for the structure and functionality of languages, influencing future constructed languages.

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Hack Wilson

Baseball player, Chicago Cubs star
Born
April 26th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 48 years old

A professional baseball player, Wilson played as an outfielder primarily for the Chicago Cubs in Major League Baseball. He gained recognition for his powerful hitting and exceptional performance during the 1930 season, where he set a National League record for runs batted in, achieving 191 RBIs in a single season. Wilson contributed significantly to the Cubs' success in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Throughout a career that spanned over a decade, Wilson was known for his ability to hit home runs and maintain a high batting average, leading to several All-Star selections. After retiring from playing, Wilson remained involved in baseball, contributing to the sport in various capacities.

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Manuel Roxas

5th President of the Philippines
Born
January 1st, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 56 years old

Served as the first President of the independent Third Republic of the Philippines from 1946 until his death in 1948. Played a pivotal role in the post-World War II reconstruction and reestablishment of the Philippine government. Prior to the presidency, held various positions including member of the House of Representatives and Secretary of Finance. Worked on economic recovery efforts and established relations with the United States during his administration.

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Kâzım Karabekir

Turkish general, politician, and Speaker
Born
July 23rd, 1882 142 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 66 years old

A military officer and important figure in Turkish history. Born in 1882, played a significant role as a general during the Turkish War of Independence. Served as the 5th Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey from 1920 to 1921. Contributed to the founding of the Republic of Turkey's military and political structures. Engaged in various political activities and held influential positions in the early years of the republic.

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Raoul Koczalski

Polish pianist and composer, composer of works
Born
January 3rd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 64 years old

Born in Poland, a prominent pianist and composer emerged in the early 20th century. Trained in piano and composition, gained recognition for original compositions and virtuosic performances. Established a career as a concert pianist, performing across Europe and collaborating with orchestras. Became influential in the music scene, contributing to both performance and composition realms. Taught music, passing on knowledge to future generations of musicians, thereby shaping the development of piano music. Later life included presentations and compositions, maintaining a presence in music circles until passing.

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Orville Wright

American aviation pioneer and inventor
Born
August 19th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 77 years old

An engineer and pilot, contributed to the development of powered flight alongside his brother Wilbur. The duo designed and built the first successful airplane, the Wright Flyer, which made its inaugural flight on December 17, 1903, near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Orville continued to promote and improve aviation technology, co-founding the Wright Company in 1909 to manufacture airplanes and training pilots. This company played a crucial role in the early aviation industry, producing several innovative aircraft models.

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Uzeyir Hajibeyov

Azerbaijani composer and conductor
Born
September 18th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1885, a significant figure in Azerbaijani music and theatre. Established the first Azerbaijani opera, 'Leyli and Majnun', which premiered in 1908. Contributed to the development of national musical identity by incorporating traditional Azerbaijani melodies into compositions. Worked as a conductor and playwright, shaping both the musical and theatrical landscape of Azerbaijan. Played a vital role in promoting Azerbaijani music on international stages.

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Fred Niblo

Film director of 'The Mark of Zorro'
Born
January 6th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 74 years old

An influential figure in early cinema, this individual started a professional career in theater before transitioning to directing silent films. The work 'The Mark of Zorro' in 1920 garnered significant attention and established a template for later swashbuckler films. In addition to directing, also produced and contributed to screenplays, shaping the narrative style of the time. Contributions to the film industry in the early 20th century laid groundwork for future filmmakers.

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