What Happened This Year 1968

People Who Died in 1968

Gordon Coventry

Australian Rules footballer and coach
Born
September 25th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1968 56 years ago — 67 years old

Played Australian Rules football for Collingwood Football Club from 1920 to 1937. Served as a coach for the same club after retirement as a player. Contributed to the game as a forward, achieving notable success during his playing career. His scoring record established him as one of the top goal kickers in the sport's history. Inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1996 as recognition of his contributions to Australian Rules football.

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Wendell Corey

Actor and politician, starred in 'Prime Suspect'
Born
March 20th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1968 56 years ago — 54 years old

An American actor and politician, involvement in the entertainment industry included a key role in the film 'Prime Suspect' and performances in television series such as 'The Long Hot Summer.' Transitioning into politics, held a position as a member of the California State Assembly. Active in both fields throughout a career that spanned several decades, contributed to the cultural and political landscape of mid-20th century America.

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Peter Mohr Dam

Faroese educator and 3rd Prime Minister
Born
August 11th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1968 56 years ago — 70 years old

Born in the Faroe Islands, a significant figure in education and politics. Served as the 3rd Prime Minister of the Faroe Islands from 1948 to 1950. Played a key role in expanding educational opportunities in the region, promoting the use of the Faroese language in schools and public life. Focused on social welfare and economic development during tenure as Prime Minister, contributing to the establishment of a modern political framework in the islands.

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Jan Johansson

Swedish pianist and jazz innovator
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1968 56 years ago — 37 years old

A Swedish pianist contributed significantly to jazz music, especially with a unique approach that integrated traditional Swedish folk melodies with jazz improvisation. The album 'Jazz på Svenska' featured interpretations of Swedish folk tunes and classical pieces, showcasing a blend of genres. Johansson's distinctive playing style and arrangements influenced both jazz musicians and folk artists, securing a lasting legacy in Swedish and jazz music.

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Jeanne Demessieux

French pianist and composer
Born
February 13th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1968 56 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent pianist and composer, contributions spanned the realms of piano performance and composition. Achievements included performances in prestigious venues across Europe and compositions featuring intricate counterpoint and rich textures. Renowned for innovative works for organ and piano, significant pieces include the 'Six Études', which showcased technical prowess and creativity. Served as a professor at the Conservatoire de Paris, influencing the next generation of musicians through dedication to teaching.

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Mervyn Peake

English author and illustrator of Gormenghast
Born
July 9th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1968 56 years ago — 57 years old

An English author and illustrator, gained recognition for the Gormenghast series, which includes the novels 'Titus Groan' and 'Gormenghast'. The intricate and gothic-style world created in these works displayed both literary and artistic talent. Peake also contributed to the field of children's literature through various illustrated stories. His illustrations reflected a distinctive style that complemented his writing, showcasing a unique blend of imagination and depth.

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May Hollinworth

Theatre producer and director
Born
May 1st, 1895 129 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1968 56 years ago — 73 years old

Produced and directed various theatrical productions in Australia. Contributed to the development of performing arts in the region during the mid-20th century. Worked with several prominent theatre companies and influenced the Australian theatre landscape. Played a significant role in promoting new Australian works and fostering local talent.

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D. A. Levy

American poet and literary publisher
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1968 56 years ago — 26 years old

A prominent figure in the Beat poetry movement, contributed significantly to the poetry scene in the 1960s. Published multiple collections showcasing avant-garde poetry and facilitated the distribution of literary works through innovative publishing methods. Maintained a focus on personal expression and social commentary within poetry. His works often reflected themes of urban life and human experience.

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Paul Siple

Geographer and Antarctic explorer
Born
December 18th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1968 56 years ago — 59 years old

A geographer and explorer, contributions focused on polar research. Participated in multiple expeditions to Antarctica, including the first American expedition in 1933-1934. Worked on the development of the wind chill index, significant for understanding cold weather hazards. Helped establish the United States Antarctic Program and served as a leader in this initiative, promoting scientific research in polar regions.

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