What Happened This Year 1948

People Who Died in 1948

D. W. Griffith

American film director, Birth of a Nation
Born
January 22nd, 1875 150 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1948 76 years ago — 73 years old

An American director, producer, and screenwriter played a significant role in the early development of cinema. Pioneered narrative techniques and established conventions in film that are still used today. Directed 'The Birth of a Nation' in 1915, which was one of the first feature-length films and showcased innovative storytelling methods. The film sparked considerable controversy due to its portrayal of race relations and the Ku Klux Klan.

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Joe Tinker

Baseball manager and player, Chicago Cubs
Born
1880 145 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1948 76 years ago — 68 years old

Played shortstop in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Chicago Cubs. Managed multiple teams, including the Cubs and the Philadelphia Phillies. Part of the famed Cubs infield with Johnny Evers and Frank Chance, known as 'Tinker to Evers to Chance.' Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1946. Contributed to the Cubs' success during the early 1900s, helping the team secure back-to-back Championships in 1907 and 1908.

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Woolf Barnato

Race car driver and businessman, Le Mans winner
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1948 76 years ago — 50 years old

An English race car driver and businessman contributed significantly to motor racing during the early 20th century. Active in the 1920s and 1930s, drove for Bentley Motors and played a key role in the brand's success. Achieved prominence by winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times, securing victories in 1928, 1929, and 1930. Apart from racing, played an important role in the operations of the family business, Barnato and Bailey, which specialized in the automotive industry. His expertise and passion for cars not only enhanced Bentley's reputation but also established a legacy within the motorsport community. Passed away in 1948.

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Montagu Toller

Cricketer and lawyer from England
Born
1871 154 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1948 76 years ago — 77 years old

Played first-class cricket for Derbyshire from 1911 to 1922. His career included significant contributions to both cricket and law. Toller also served as a barrister, demonstrating expertise in his legal profession while actively participating in competitive cricket. Toler's dual profession highlights the intersection of sports and law during the early 20th century in England.

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Charles Bryant

Actor and director of silent films
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1948 76 years ago — 69 years old

Active during the silent film era, contributed significantly as an actor and director. Participated in various productions, creating both short and feature-length films. Collaborated with other prominent figures in the industry, influencing the early development of cinema. The body of work included performances in films that reflected the artistic ambitions of the time. Transitioned from acting to directing, showcasing versatility in the evolving film landscape. His career spanned several decades, illustrating the shifts in cinematic storytelling.

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Hugo Boss

Fashion Designer, Founder of Hugo Boss
Born
July 8th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1948 76 years ago — 63 years old

Founded a clothing company in 1924 that became renowned for men's suits and luxury apparel. The brand gained significant recognition during the 1930s and 1940s, particularly known for producing uniforms for various organizations. After World War II, the company shifted focus towards re-establishing itself in the fashion industry.

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Montague Summers

English clergyman and author of occult works
Born
April 10th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1948 76 years ago — 68 years old

An English clergyman and author, contributed to the study of the supernatural, particularly in English literature, with a focus on vampires and the occult. Authored several texts, including 'The Vampire: His Kith and Kin' and 'The History of Dracula'. Offered unique interpretations of traditional folklore and gothic literature. Additionally worked on the translation and critical analysis of various works related to the supernatural, cementing a niche in literary studies in the early 20th century.

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Kan'ichi Asakawa

Historian and author of Japanese history
Born
December 20th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1948 76 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of Japanese history, focusing on the Meiji period and its implications for modern Japan. Engaged in extensive research and published several books, elevating understanding of Japan's socio-political transformations during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Worked as a professor, influencing generations of historians and scholars through teaching and mentoring. Played a pivotal role in making historical research accessible and rigorous, underpinning academic standards in the field.

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Eliška Misáková

Czech gymnast and Olympian
Born
October 12th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1948 76 years ago — 21 years old

Competed in artistic gymnastics during the mid-20th century. Achieved significant recognition for performances at the 1948 Summer Olympics. Participated in various international competitions representing Czechoslovakia. Displayed exceptional skills in multiple gymnastics apparatus events.

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