What Happened This Year 1868

Born in 1868

Ernst Didring

Swedish author and playwright
Born
October 18th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1931 93 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1868, significant contributions were made to Swedish literature through both novels and plays. The works often explored human emotions and societal issues, reflecting the era's cultural dynamics. Didring's literary career included involvement in theater, with successful productions that resonated with audiences. The author also took part in various literary movements of the time, shaping the narrative landscape in Sweden.

Continue Reading

Bertha Knight Landes

American politician, Mayor of Seattle
Born
October 19th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
1943 82 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the Mayor of Seattle from 1926 to 1928. First woman to hold the office in a major American city. Advocated for urban reforms and improved city services during tenure. Worked in various civic organizations prior to entering politics.

Continue Reading

Ernest Swinton

British Army officer and tank pioneer
Born
October 21st, 1868 156 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1951 74 years ago — 82 years old

An Army officer, involved in military innovation during World War I, contributed significantly to tank development. Swinton served on various fronts and took part in strategic planning. His ideas on armored vehicles were instrumental in their implementation by the British Army. Authored 'The Third Dimension', which discussed the future of warfare and mechanization. After the war, continued advocacy for mechanized warfare and wrote extensively on military strategy until death in 1951.

Continue Reading

Alexandra David-Néel

Explorer and author of 'My Journey to Lhasa'
Born
October 24th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1969 55 years ago — 100 years old

Born in Belgium and later becoming a French citizen, an explorer and author conducted extensive travels in Asia, particularly in Tibet. In 1924, the exploration of Lhasa, Tibet's capital, was completed, which was significant as it was largely closed to foreigners during this time. The journey led to the publication of several works that detailed Tibetan culture, Buddhism, and her experiences. David-Néel's commitment to understanding Eastern philosophies and practices influenced Western thought on these subjects.

Continue Reading

Oskar Kallas

Estonian linguist and diplomat
Born
October 25th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent linguist and diplomat, contributed significantly to the development of the Estonian language and its standards. Played a crucial role in the formation of the Estonian Academy of Sciences. Served as the first Estonian ambassador to the United States and worked on improving Estonia's international relations. Authored several works on linguistics and translated important texts, enhancing the cultural understanding of Estonia.

Continue Reading

Dan Burke

Baseball player for the Pittsburgh Pirates
Born
October 25th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
1933 92 years ago — 65 years old

Played Major League Baseball primarily as an outfielder from 1890 to 1891. Contributed to the Pittsburgh Pirates during a transformative period in the late 19th century. Established a reputation as a skilled fielder and competent hitter. Appeared in a total of 53 games across two seasons, with a batting average of .263. Was part of the unique team dynamics of the era, competing in several memorable matches that reflected the competitive nature of the league at the time.

Continue Reading

William Gillies

Australian politician and Premier of Queensland
Born
October 27th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1928 97 years ago — 59 years old

Served as the 21st Premier of Queensland from 1915 to 1918. Participated in significant government reforms during tenure, focusing on public health and education. Played a role in infrastructure development, including roads and railways within the state. Engaged in various political activities and held other governmental posts prior to premiership.

Continue Reading

António Cabreira

Portuguese polygraph inventor
Born
October 30th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1953 71 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent figure in the field of forensic science, contributions to the development of the polygraph significantly advanced the understanding of physiological responses in relation to truthfulness. Focused on the detection of deception, innovations included techniques that related blood pressure, pulse, and respiration to emotional states. The inventions provided a foundation for modern lie detection methods and were utilized in various contexts, including criminal investigations.

Continue Reading

La Belle Otero

Spanish actress and singer
Born
November 4th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 97 years old

Born in 1868, this individual became a prominent figure in the world of entertainment, particularly in the early 20th century. Known for performances in cabarets, music halls, and theaters across Europe, she gained recognition for captivating audiences with her singing and dancing. A significant part of her career unfolded in Paris, where she became a symbol of the Belle Époque and frequently performed at legendary venues such as the Folies Bergère. Additionally, she was the subject of various artistic works, reflecting her influence in the performing arts during that era.

Continue Reading