What Happened This Year 1868

Born in 1868

Huo Yuanjia

Martial artist and Chin Woo co-founder
Born
1868 157 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1910 114 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 157 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1913 111 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 157 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1945 79 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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Achille Paroche

Target shooter, Olympic champion
Born
1868 157 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1933 91 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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Mohammad Farid

Egyptian lawyer and politician
Born
1868 157 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1919 105 years ago — 51 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician from Egypt, played a significant role in the Egyptian Nationalist movement during the early 20th century. Founded the nationalist party, which advocated for independence from British rule. Engaged in legal practices that advanced political rights and freedoms in Egypt. Contributed extensively to the promotion of education and social reforms, advocating for independence and sovereignty. Died in 1919, leaving behind a legacy of political activism.

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Sophie, Duchess of Hohenberg

Noble figure and consort
Born
1868 157 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1914 110 years ago — 46 years old

Born into the House of Habsburg, this noble figure became the Duchess of Hohenberg through marriage. The individual has a significant historical association with the Habsburg dynasty and is remembered primarily for the marriage to Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, an event that played a critical role in the lead-up to World War I. The duchess's life was closely intertwined with the political landscape of her time. The death on June 28, 1914, alongside her husband, marked a pivotal moment in European history, leading to the outbreak of the war.

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Abdülmecid II

Ottoman Sultan, last Caliph of Islam
Born
1868 157 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1944 80 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the last Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1924 to 1922, and held the title of Caliph until 1924. Abdülmecid II was a prominent figure during the final years of the Ottoman Empire, overseeing its dissolution following World War I. After the abolition of the Sultanate, lived in exile in France until death. Abdülmecid II was known for his attempts to modernize the Ottoman state and promote cultural reforms, including support for arts and architecture.

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