What Happened This Year 1948

People Who Died in 1948

Father Edward J. Flanagan

founder of Boys Town
Born
July 13th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 62 years old

Founded a home for boys in Omaha, Nebraska, dedicated to providing a safe haven for at-risk youth. Established Boys Town in 1917, offering education, counseling, and support services. Advocated for the welfare of children and the importance of family. Worked tirelessly to promote the Boys Town model as an effective solution for youth care, leading to its recognition as a national program.

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Olev Siinmaa

Architect, designed the Estonian National Museum
Born
November 12th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1881, an Estonian-Swedish architect contributed significantly to architectural design in Estonia. Siinmaa graduated from the Technical University in St. Petersburg and worked extensively in the early 20th century. The architect's work predominantly included public buildings, residences, and museums, blending Estonian traditions with contemporary styles. Key projects included the design of the Estonian National Museum, which exemplified a national identity in architecture. Siinmaa also played a pivotal role in the post-World War II rebuilding efforts within Estonia. His contributions to architectural theory and practice were influential in shaping the architectural landscape of Estonia during this period.

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Hideki Tōjō

Japanese general and 40th Prime Minister
Born
December 30th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 64 years old

Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army and held the position of the 40th Prime Minister of Japan from 1941 to 1944. Oversaw Japan's military operations during World War II, including the attack on Pearl Harbor. Instrumental in Japan's wartime policies and governance, leading to significant military engagements in the Pacific. After Japan's defeat, faced trial for war crimes, ultimately resulting in execution.

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Edgar de Wahl

Linguist and creator of Volapük
Born
August 23rd, 1867 158 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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Charles A. Beard

Historian and co-founder of The New School
Born
November 27th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent historian and educator, contributed significantly to the field of American history. Co-founded The New School, an educational institution in New York City that emphasized progressive education and social reform. Engaged with political and economic history, particularly through works that addressed the nature of American democracy and its development. Published influential books and articles, elaborating on the complexities of historical interpretation and providing critical analysis of historical events and trends.

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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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Elsa Brändström

Nurse and philanthropist in World War I
Born
March 26th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 60 years old

Contributed significantly to wartime medical care during World War I. Provided assistance to wounded soldiers in various war zones, focusing on improving their living conditions. Established several health care facilities aimed at treating and rehabilitating injured soldiers. Worked tirelessly to advocate for humanitarian aid, especially for those suffering due to the war. Engaged in efforts to promote better medical practices in the field and enhanced the training of nurses involved in wartime care.

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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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Percy Sherwell

Cricketer and tennis player for South Africa
Born
August 17th, 1880 145 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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