What Happened This Year 1968

People Who Died in 1968

Padre Pio

Italian priest and mystic saint
Born
May 25th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1887 in Italy, served as a Capuchin priest and became a widely venerated saint. Recognized for bearing the stigmata, Pio's spiritual guidance attracted many followers. Established the Home for the Relief of Suffering in San Giovanni Rotondo, which provided medical care. Notable for the incredible reports of miraculous healings associated with him throughout his life. Died in 1968, was canonized in 2002 by Pope John Paul II.

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Francis Biddle

U.S. Attorney General during WWII
Born
May 19th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the 58th United States Attorney General from 1941 to 1945 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Managed legal matters related to World War II, including the prosecution of war crimes. Additionally, held the position of Chief Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Biddle was involved in civil rights advocacy and contributed to the New Deal legislation.

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Lawson Little

Professional golfer with major tournament wins
Born
June 23rd, 1910 114 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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Kees van Dongen

Dutch painter known for Fauvism
Born
January 26th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent painter, associated with the Fauvist movement, specialized in using vibrant colors and expressive brushwork. Born in 1877, contributed significantly to modern art through bold portraits and depictions of women. Worked in various locations, including Paris, where he became an influential figure among avant-garde artists. His art often featured subjects such as dancers, musicians, and society women, showcasing a unique style that combined abstraction with emotional expression.

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Norman Brookes

Australian tennis player and champion
Born
November 14th, 1877 147 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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Wilfrid Hamel

Canadian businessman and politician
Born
July 16th, 1895 129 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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Wanda Krahelska-Filipowicz

Polish politician and resistance fighter
Born
December 15th, 1886 138 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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Little Willie John

American Rhythm and Blues Singer
Born
November 15th, 1937 87 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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Patricia Jessel

Actress from Hong Kong and England
Born
October 15th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 48 years old

Patricia Jessel was an actress who gained recognition for her work in television and film during the mid-20th century. She starred alongside notable actors in key productions, showcasing her talent in a variety of roles. Jessel appeared in films such as 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and gained attention on television with performances in series like 'The Adventures of Robin Hood'. Her contributions to the entertainment industry were significant during a transformative era in television and cinema.

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