Daryl's Journal

On Sunday, July 4, 1948, President Truman emphasized Israel’s role in the UN, while riots broke out in Italy following the shooting of communist leader Palmiro Togliatti. In sports, Roy Campanella hit his first two National League home runs. Other events included the start of the Tanglewood music festival and a major Navy air cadet recruitment drive. 

Key highlights from that day included:

• Political/Global Events: President Truman urged a role for Israel in the U.N. and expressed pride in the recognition of the new state according to The New York Times, July 4, 1948. In Italy, riots broke out after communist leader Palmiro Togliatti was shot.
• Sports: Hall of Fame catcher Roy Campanella hit his first two National League homers (one a walkoff) to lead the Dodgers, and Elston Howard broke into the major leagues with the Kansas City Monarchs.
• Military/Cultural: The U.S. Navy sought 2,000 air cadets for training, and the sixth season of concerts opened at Tanglewood.
• Deaths: English metallurgist Harry Brearley, inventor of stainless steel, died.