What Happened This Year 1968
Historical Events from This Year 1968 (View all 124)
Alexander Dubček rises to leadership in Czechoslovakia
Alexander Dubček became the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia, signaling the beginning of the Prague Spring. His leadership introduced a series of political reforms aimed at creating 'socialism with a human face.' The movement began to attract widespread support among the populace, energizing demands for greater freedoms and decentralization of authority within the government. This liberalization met resistance from conservative elements in the party and raised concerns in Moscow, setting the stage for significant political strife.
Continue ReadingAeroflot Flight 1668 Crash Near Olyokminsk
Aeroflot Flight 1668, a Soviet passenger aircraft, crashed near Olyokminsk, resulting in the deaths of 45 individuals on board. The incident occurred when the aircraft was on a domestic flight in Russia. Reports suggested that adverse weather conditions contributed to the crash. Passengers included civilians and crew members traveling to various destinations within the Soviet Union.
Continue ReadingSurveyor 7 Launches to Explore the Moon
The Surveyor 7 spacecraft lifted off from Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 36A, marking the final mission of the Surveyor program. The spacecraft aimed to obtain high-resolution images of the lunar surface and gather important data about the Moon's composition and soil properties. Launched aboard an Atlas-Centaur rocket, Surveyor 7 was crucial in providing information for future human landings, particularly Apollo 11. The mission signified a culmination of successful robotic exploration of the Moon prior to manned missions.
Continue ReadingJohnny Cash's Iconic Prison Concert
Johnny Cash performed live at Folsom State Prison, captivating inmates with a memorable concert. The event was intended to uplift the prisoners’ spirits and address social issues. Cash's performance included several of his iconic songs, most notably 'Folsom Prison Blues,' which resonated deeply with the audience. It would later be released as an influential live album.
Continue ReadingBattle of Khe Sanh Begins
The Battle of Khe Sanh began as a significant military engagement in the Vietnam War. Taking place near the Khe Sanh Combat Base in Quang Tri Province, South Vietnam, the battle involved U.S. Marines and North Vietnamese forces. It was marked by intense fighting and siege conditions, with the U.S. forces aiming to capture and hold the strategic base to prevent North Vietnamese infiltration. This confrontation quickly drew substantial media attention due to its ferocity and implications for the war’s outcome.
Continue ReadingB-52 Bomber Crash Near Thule Air Base
A B-52 bomber crashed near Thule Air Base, Greenland, leading to significant contamination following the rupture of its nuclear payload. Rescue operations revealed that three of the bombs were recovered, but one bomb remains unaccounted for post-cleanup, raising concerns over environmental safety and security measures in Cold War contexts. The incident highlighted the risks associated with nuclear weapon transport and the potential environmental impacts of military operations in remote areas.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1968 (View all 574)
Davor Šuker
Regarded as one of the leading forwards in the history of Croatian football. Achieved significant success during the 1998 FIFA World Cup, where finished as the tournament's top scorer. Played for clubs like Dinamo Zagreb, Sevilla, and Real Madrid, winning league titles and the UEFA Champions League. Transitioned to a successful career in football administration after retirement, serving as the president of the Croatian Football Federation.
Continue ReadingCuba Gooding Jr.
An actor and producer, gained prominence in the 1990s. Starred in the critically acclaimed film 'Jerry Maguire,' earning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Also appeared in 'Boyz n the Hood,' which showcased the struggles of inner-city life. Played a lead role in 'Radio,' a story about an intellectually disabled young man and his bond with a high school football coach. Throughout the career, engaged in various television and film projects, demonstrating versatility in performances.
Continue ReadingAnky van Grunsven
A prominent figure in the world of dressage, achieved significant success in international competitions. Competed in multiple Olympic Games and secured several gold medals. Strengthened the profile of equestrian sports through remarkable performances. Developed a reputation for excellence in training and horse partnership.
Continue ReadingCarrie Ann Inaba
Born in 1968, this American actress, dancer, and choreographer gained recognition as a judge on the television show 'Dancing with the Stars'. A skilled performer, her career includes notable work in various television and film projects, as well as significant contributions to dance as a choreographer. She has also participated in music videos and performed with major artists. Alongside her entertainment career, she is known for her advocacy in mental health awareness.
Continue ReadingJoé Juneau
Born in 1968, this individual played professional ice hockey primarily in the NHL. A center, contributions included time with the Boston Bruins and the Montreal Canadiens. Played a key role in guiding the Canadiens to the 1993 Stanley Cup Championship. Pursued an engineering career after retiring from professional hockey, balancing sports and education with significant achievements in both fields.
Continue ReadingJohn Singleton
A prominent American director, producer, and screenwriter gained recognition for directing the groundbreaking film 'Boyz n the Hood' in 1991. The film was significant for its raw portrayal of life in South Central Los Angeles and addressed issues of race and violence. Singleton's work often explored themes related to African-American culture and identity. He became the first African-American to receive a Best Director Academy Award nomination for this debut feature. In addition to 'Boyz n the Hood', Singleton directed several other films, including 'Poetic Justice' and 'Shaft'. He also contributed to television, serving as a director and executive producer for the series 'Snowfall'.
Continue ReadingPeople Who Died in 1968 (View all 218)
Chika Kuroda
Contributions to the field of chemistry significantly advanced understanding of natural compounds and their applications. Worked at the University of Tokyo and focused on plant pigment chemistry. Published numerous research papers that contributed to the global knowledge of organic compounds derived from plants. Kuroda's work laid the foundation for future studies in natural product chemistry.
Continue ReadingJ. L. B. Smith
A prominent chemist and academic, contributions focused on the field of organic chemistry. This individual served as a professor at several institutions and made significant advancements in chemical education. Research involved the study of natural products and the synthesis of complex organic compounds. Authored numerous publications that advanced the understanding of chemical processes. Leadership roles in academic societies enhanced the landscape of chemistry in the region.
Continue ReadingAli Fuat Cebesoy
Served as a prominent general during the Turkish War of Independence. Held the role of the 6th Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey from 1946 to 1948. Engaged in military tactics and strategies that shaped the modern Turkish state. Contributed to the establishment of the new Republic.
Continue ReadingDorothea Mackellar
Born in Australia, a well-regarded poet and author played a significant role in shaping Australian literature. Best remembered for the poem 'My Country', which expresses a deep connection to the Australian landscape, the work became a defining piece of Australian identity. Apart from poetry, contributions include essays and articles that reflect on Australian life and nature. Active in advocating for women’s rights and involvement in literary circles, advocated for women's participation in literature during a time when it was often overlooked.
Continue ReadingBob Jones Sr.
An American evangelist founded an influential Christian institution in 1927, emphasizing conservative fundamentalism and distinct educational philosophies. Played a pivotal role in shaping the school's policies and curriculum, which reflected his beliefs. The university became a significant center for Christian education, attracting students dedicated to a fundamentalist worldview. Advocated for traditional values in education and maintained a strong stance against secular influences.
Continue ReadingPanagiotis Poulitsas
Engaged in extensive archaeological work in Greece, contributing significantly to the field through research and excavation. Played a key role in legal matters pertaining to archaeological heritage and preservation. Involved in various academic and professional organizations dedicated to archaeology and law. His efforts helped establish best practices for archaeological site management.
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