What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Albert Hofmann

Swiss chemist who discovered LSD
Born
January 11th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
April 29th, 2008 16 years ago — 102 years old

A prominent Swiss chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of pharmaceuticals. Synthesized lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in 1938 while working at Sandoz Laboratories. First ingested LSD personally in 1943, leading to the discovery of its psychedelic effects. Conducted further research on hallucinogenic substances and their potential therapeutic uses. Authored several books on psychedelic substances and their implications in psychology and culture.

Continue Reading

Juancho Evertsz

Dutch Antillean politician
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2008 16 years ago — 85 years old

Served as a prominent politician in the Dutch Caribbean, particularly in the Netherlands Antilles. Held the position of Prime Minister and led various initiatives aimed at the political development of the islands. Actively participated in the decolonization process and worked towards increased autonomy for the Netherlands Antilles. Involved in the establishment of governmental reforms that aimed to enhance local governance.

Continue Reading

Philipp von Boeselager

German soldier and economist
Born
September 6th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
May 1st, 2008 16 years ago — 90 years old

Served as a German soldier during World War II, becoming a significant figure in the Wehrmacht. Participated in the assassination attempt against Adolf Hitler on July 20, 1944, known as Operation Valkyrie. After the war, pursued a career in economics and business, gaining recognition in academic and professional circles. Contributed to discussions on post-war reconstruction and economic policy in Germany.

Continue Reading

Anthony Mamo

Maltese lawyer and 1st President of Malta
Born
January 9th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 1st, 2008 16 years ago — 99 years old

Served as the first President of Malta from 1974 to 1976 after Malta became a republic. Contributed to the legal framework of the country as a prominent lawyer. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Malta during the transition from British colonial rule to independent governance. Previously held positions in the Maltese Parliament and served as the Minister for Health and Social Welfare. Engaged in various legal and political reforms that shaped modern Maltese society.

Continue Reading

Beverlee McKinsey

American actress on soap operas
Born
August 9th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2008 16 years ago — 72 years old

An American actress gained recognition for roles in popular soap operas. Appeared as Iris Carrington on 'Another World' and as Alexandra Spaulding on 'Guiding Light.' McKinsey's performances contributed to the long-running success of these shows, making significant impacts on the soap opera genre. After a brief departure from acting, made a return to television.

Continue Reading

Leopoldo Calvo-Sotelo

Spanish Prime Minister and engineer
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2008 16 years ago — 82 years old

An engineer and politician served as Prime Minister of Spain from 1981 to 1982. Entered politics in the 1960s and held various positions, including Minister of Public Works and Urbanism. Oversaw significant events during the Spanish transition to democracy, guiding the nation through a critical period of political change. Promoted economic modernization and infrastructure development. Stepped down following a motion of no confidence, shortly after a failed coup attempt in 1981.

Continue Reading

Irv Robbins

Co-founder of Baskin-Robbins ice cream
Born
December 6th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2008 16 years ago — 90 years old

Co-founded Baskin-Robbins, an ice cream and cake shop franchise, in 1945. Established a wide variety of ice cream flavors, leading the industry with innovative products. Expanded the franchise system across the United States and internationally, focusing on customer experience and quality. Played a significant role in popularizing the concept of ice cream parlors as social gathering spots.

Continue Reading

François Sterchele

Belgian footballer with notable goals.
Born
March 14th, 1982 43 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2008 16 years ago — 26 years old

Played professional football primarily as a forward. Began career at Germinal Beerschot and later joined Club Brugge, where notable performances included contributing to the team's successes in domestic leagues. Transferred to the Belgian national team and achieved recognition for skills and scoring ability. Tragically passed away in 2008, cutting a promising career short.

Continue Reading

Eddy Arnold

American country singer and songwriter
Born
May 15th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2008 16 years ago — 89 years old

One of the leading voices in country music, Arnold gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. He pioneered the Nashville Sound, a movement that blended country music with pop elements, which significantly broadened the genre's appeal. Arnold recorded numerous hit songs, including 'Make the World Go Away' and 'I'll Hold You in My Heart.' His career spanned several decades, and he became a key figure in the transition of country music into mainstream culture. In addition to music, Arnold appeared in films and on television, showcasing his talents beyond the recording studio.

Continue Reading