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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Little Willie John

American Rhythm and Blues Singer
Born
November 15th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 31 years old

Born in 1937, a prominent figure in the Rhythm and Blues genre, distinguished for his powerful vocals. Achieved commercial success during the 1950s and 1960s with hit singles that showcased unique emotional depth. Recorded multiple albums and contributed to the development of soul music from the R&B tradition. Influenced various artists in both R&B and rock music.

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Wylie Cameron Grant

Tennis player and amateur champion
Born
November 24th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1879, a prominent American tennis player. Competed mainly in the early 20th century. Achieved significant success in various national championships. Gained recognition for strength in both singles and doubles formats. Participated in many prestigious tournaments of the time, contributing to the sport's early development in the United States.

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Wanda Krahelska-Filipowicz

Polish politician and resistance fighter
Born
December 15th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 82 years old

Active in the Polish political scene and a member of the Polish resistance during World War II. Worked with various underground organizations to combat Nazi occupation. Advocated for women's rights and social issues within the resistance framework. Contributed significantly to Polish political life post-war through her involvement in various civic initiatives.

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Wilfrid Hamel

Canadian businessman and politician
Born
July 16th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 73 years old

A businessman and politician served as the 35th Mayor of Quebec City. Held the mayoral office during the mid-20th century. Contributed to local development and governance.

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Norman Brookes

Australian tennis player and champion
Born
November 14th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 91 years old

Competed in tennis during the early 20th century, achieving significant success in both singles and doubles events. Won the men's singles title at the Australian Open in 1911 and paired with partner Anthony Wilding to capture the men's doubles title at Wimbledon in 1914. The performance in these tournaments established a strong competitive legacy in Australian tennis.

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Lawson Little

Professional golfer with major tournament wins
Born
June 23rd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 58 years old

Achieved success as a professional golfer during the mid-20th century. Won the 1940 US Amateur Championship and twice captured the prestigious British Amateur in 1934 and 1935. Played on the PGA Tour and was a key figure in promoting golf during that era. Competed in numerous tournaments, earning a reputation for playing against top competitors of the time.

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