What Happened This Year 1968

People Who Died in 1968

David Ogilvy

Scottish soldier and politician
Born
May 17th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1968 56 years ago — 42 years old

Served as the 13th Earl of Airlie and held a significant role in British military and political spheres. Joined the British Army, fighting in World War II before transitioning into politics. Actively participated in various political initiatives and represented his region in the House of Lords. Worked to further regional and national interests during his political career.

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Trygve Lie

Norwegian politician and UN Secretary-General
Born
July 16th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1968 56 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent Norwegian trade union leader and politician served as the first Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1946 to 1952. Lie played a key role in establishing the UN and shaping its early policies. His tenure was marked by significant events, including the Korean War, which tested the organization's effectiveness in conflict resolution. After stepping down from the role, he remained active in international diplomacy and served in various other positions throughout his career.

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George Lewis

Clarinet player and songwriter
Born
July 13th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1968 56 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1900, this clarinet player and songwriter contributed significantly to early jazz music. A leading figure in the New Orleans jazz scene, he became a prominent bandleader. His performances during the 1940s brought traditional New Orleans jazz to wider audiences, and he played a crucial role in the revival of this genre. Collaborations with other musicians highlighted his innovative approach and improvisational skills.

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Nikolai Stepulov

Boxer with European Championship title
Born
March 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1913, this Russian-Estonian boxer excelled in the sport during the mid-20th century. He competed in various championships, showcasing skills that earned significant recognition. Stepulov's career included participation in European boxing competitions, where he consistently demonstrated exceptional technique and prowess in the ring. His notable performances contributed to the growth of boxing in the region and inspired many aspiring athletes. After retirement, Stepulov transitioned to coaching, fostering new talent in the sport.

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Cyril Vincent

South African cricketer, Test player
Born
February 16th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 66 years old

Played first-class cricket for Western Province and represented South Africa in Test matches. Made his Test debut in 1924 against England at Johannesburg. Contributed as a right-handed batsman and an occasional wicketkeeper. Participated in the 1924-25 series against Australia, showcasing considerable skills behind the stumps. Retired from cricket in the 1930s after a successful career in domestic cricket, establishing a reputation in South African cricket history.

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Max Brod

Czech journalist and author
Born
May 27th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 84 years old

A journalist, author, and composer originating from Prague, contributions included literature criticism and the promotion of modernist literature. An early advocate for Franz Kafka, fought against Kafka's wishes to have his unpublished works destroyed. Played a crucial role in publishing Kafka's fragments and manuscripts posthumously, including notable works such as 'The Trial' and 'The Castle'. In addition to literary work, composed music, emphasizing both classical and modern styles, though these compositions remained less recognized compared to literary achievements.

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Dolly Stark

Baseball player and umpire
Born
November 4th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 71 years old

Played professional baseball in the 1920s and transitioned to umpiring in the same league. Umpired games in the American Association and subsequently in Major League Baseball. Gained recognition for officiating in significant games and contributed to the development of baseball officiating standards.

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Aleksander Maaker

Estonian bagpipe player and composer
Born
October 20th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Estonia in 1890, a prominent bagpipe player and composer contributed to the revival of traditional Estonian music. His expertise in playing the Estonian bagpipe helped popularize this folk instrument. He participated in numerous cultural events and festivals, showcasing the rich heritage of Estonian music through performances and educational initiatives. In addition to performing, also worked on preserving and documenting the traditional music culture of Estonia, ensuring its continuation for future generations.

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Ildebrando Pizzetti

Composer and musicologist, 'Debora e Jaele'
Born
September 20th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1880, a prominent Italian composer and musicologist, contributed significantly to 20th-century music. Pizzetti studied at the Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi in Milan and later became a professor there. He incorporated elements of Italian folk music into his works. His opera 'Debora e Jaele' gained acclaim for its innovative melodic structures. Pizzetti also authored influential essays on music, contributing to musicology through both composition and scholarly work. Engaged in various aspects of musical life, served as a critic and worked with notable institutions, furthering the appreciation of Italian opera.

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