What Happened This Year 1868

Born in 1868

Achille Paroche

Target shooter, Olympic champion
Born
1868 158 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1933 92 years ago — 65 years old

Achille Paroche was a French target shooter who gained recognition for his skill in rifle competition. Paroche participated in the 1900 Summer Olympics held in Paris, where he excelled in the shooting events. His performance led to the achievement of a gold medal, marking a significant milestone in his sports career. Paroche's contributions to the sport of shooting were notable during the early 20th century.

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Frank Watson Dyson

Astronomer and academic
Born
1868 158 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1939 86 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of comets and the measurement of stellar distances. Served as the Astronomer Royal from 1910 to 1933, overseeing key developments in British astronomy. Conducted research on the influence of the Sun on the Earth's atmosphere and took part in organizing the successful 1919 solar eclipse expedition, which provided evidence for Einstein's theory of general relativity. Published extensively on various topics within astronomy, influencing both theoretical and observational practices.

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Huo Yuanjia

Martial artist and Chin Woo co-founder
Born
1868 158 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1910 115 years ago — 42 years old

Co-founded the Chin Woo Athletic Association, which promoted traditional Chinese martial arts. Played a significant role in popularizing martial arts in China during the late Qing Dynasty. Established a reputation through notable fights, showcasing skills against foreign martial artists. Contributed to the resurgence of national pride through martial arts, emphasizing its cultural importance.

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Camille Jenatzy

Race car driver and Land Speed Record holder
Born
1868 158 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1913 112 years ago — 45 years old

A Belgian race car driver gained prominence in the early 20th century. Pioneered automotive speed records, becoming the first individual to exceed 100 km/h in a vehicle. Achieved this record in 1899 with the electric vehicle known as La Jamais Contente. Competed in various international competitions, showcasing abilities in both endurance and speed. Contributed to the development of electric vehicle technology and racing innovation until untimely death.

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Hélène de Pourtalès

Swiss sailor and Olympic gold medalist
Born
1868 158 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1945 80 years ago — 77 years old

Competed in sailing events during the early 20th century. Achieved prominence at the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris, becoming the first woman to win an Olympic gold medal in sailing. Participated in the 1900 Olympic sailing events, where her team secured victory in the 1 to 2 ton sailing class. Active in the sport for many years, contributing to the development of women in competitive sailing.

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Edward S. Curtis

Ethnologist and photographer of Native Americans
Born
1868 158 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1952 73 years ago — 84 years old

An American ethnologist and photographer focused on the Native American cultures in the early 20th century. Developed a significant body of work that documented various tribes through photographic portraits and ethnographic studies. Created the multi-volume series 'The North American Indian' featuring detailed photographs and texts about Native American life, culture, and practices. His work was notable for its comprehensive approach to representation, documenting over 80 tribes across the United States. Curtis's dedication culminated in the preservation of many aspects of Native American heritage that faced extinction during this period.

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William Lockwood

English cricketer and county player
Born
1868 158 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1932 93 years ago — 64 years old

An English cricketer played primarily for Lancashire during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Lockwood was a right-arm fast bowler and accomplished batsman, active in first-class cricket from 1886 to 1910. He gained recognition for his skills in both glory and adversity over the years. Lockwood took part in numerous important matches, helping to shape the early professional cricket landscape in England. His contributions included notable performances in the County Championship and various matches against international teams.

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