What Happened This Year 1868
Born in 1868
Sumner Paine
Competed in target shooting events and achieved success at the Olympic Games. Participated in the 1896 Athens Olympics, becoming one of the first Olympic athletes from the United States. Focused primarily on rifle shooting, contributing to the early development of competitive shooting sports in the country.
Continue ReadingMagnus Hirschfeld
A physician and sexologist, contributed significantly to the understanding of human sexuality. Founded the Scientific-Humanitarian Committee in 1897, the first advocacy group for homosexual rights. Conducted pioneering research on sexual orientation and gender identity. Instrumental in developing the concept of sexual variance within society. Published numerous works including 'Sexuality and its Problems', challenging prevailing social norms and medical theories.
Continue ReadingHorace Elgin Dodge
Co-founded the Dodge Brothers Company, a significant automobile manufacturer in the early 20th century. The company became famous for creating high-quality cars, especially known for their innovation and engineering. Played a crucial role in the automotive industry by producing vehicles that were popular among consumers. Contributed to the growth of the American automotive sector, particularly during the World War era, when the company also produced military vehicles and arms.
Continue ReadingPanagis Tsaldaris
Served as Prime Minister of Greece during significant political periods. Held office at different times from 1921 to 1924 and again from 1933 to 1935. Participated extensively in the political landscape of Greece during the interwar years, shaping policies and governance. Elected multiple times to the Hellenic Parliament, contributed to legislative developments and national discussions. Engaged in various political movements and alignments reflecting the challenges faced by Greece during this era.
Continue ReadingNicholas II of Russia
Born in 1868, the last Emperor of Russia ruled from 1894 until his abdication in 1917 during the Russian Revolution. Nicholas II faced numerous challenges, including military defeats in World War I and widespread social unrest. His reign saw the fall of the Russian Empire, and he and his family were executed by Bolsheviks in 1918. Historically significant, his reign marked the end of over three centuries of Romanov rule.
Continue ReadingAugusto Pestana
Born in 1868, a Brazilian engineer and politician played a significant role in the development of infrastructure in Brazil. He served as the Mayor of São Paulo and was integral in urban planning and public works initiatives. His work laid the groundwork for modern municipal governance in São Paulo, contributing to the city's growth and modernization during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingCharlie Taylor
Early in the 20th century, a significant role was played in the development of the first heavier-than-air flying machine. Contributions included the design and construction of the engine for the Wright brothers' aircraft, which enabled the first successful powered flight in 1903. Later, Taylor was integral in the development of the Wright Model B, which achieved further advancements in aviation technology. Taylor also established the first aircraft repair shop in the United States, further contributing to the aviation industry.
Continue ReadingAleksa Šantić
Born in 1868, a prominent Bosnian poet and author contributed significantly to Bosnian literature. His poetry often engaged with themes of love, nature, and the cultural struggles of his homeland. Šantić's most notable works include the poignant poems 'Ema' and 'Pobjeda', which resonate with readers for their emotional depth and lyrical quality. Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, he was influential in promoting the importance of cultural identity in a time of political upheaval in the region. His legal background also played a role in his writing, bringing a unique perspective to his work.
Continue ReadingJames Connolly
Born in Scotland, became a key figure in the Irish labor movement and revolutionary politics. Founded the Irish Socialist Republican Party and was instrumental in the 1916 Easter Rising, which sought to end British rule in Ireland. Served as a leader in the rising and was a signatory of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic. Advocated for workers' rights and promoted the idea of a socialist republic in Ireland. His writings and speeches contributed to the growth of socialist ideology in the country, influencing future generations of Irish socialists and republicans.
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