What Happened This Year 1968

People Who Died in 1968

Lawson Little

Professional golfer with major tournament wins
Born
June 23rd, 1910 116 years ago
Died
1968 58 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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Francis Biddle

U.S. Attorney General during WWII
Born
May 19th, 1886 140 years ago
Died
1968 58 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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Padre Pio

Italian priest and mystic saint
Born
May 25th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
1968 58 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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Ernest "Pop" Stoneman

Country musician known for 'The Stoneman Family'
Born
May 25th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 75 years old

Active in the early 20th century, a prominent figure in American country music, contributed significantly to the genre's development. Recorded numerous songs with the Stoneman Family, which helped popularize bluegrass and traditional country music. Participated in the Grand Ole Opry, showcasing talent and influencing future generations of musicians. His work laid the foundation for later artists in the country music landscape.

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Pablo de Rokha

Chilean poet recognized for literary impact
Born
October 17th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed significantly to Chilean literature, advancing the avant-garde movement with a unique poetic style. Wrote over 20 poetry collections, with notable works including 'La lucha por el espíritu' and 'El escuerzo'. Received the Chilean National Prize for Literature in 1965, solidifying a prominent place in the literary canon. Explored themes of existentialism, social issues, and the human condition in a distinctive manner.

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George Dillon

American soldier and poet
Born
November 12th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 62 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War II and contributed to military literature through poetry. Produced works that reflected the experiences and emotions of soldiers during wartime. Published poetry collections that gained attention for their poignant themes and vivid imagery. Engaged with fellow veterans and participated in literary discussions highlighting the impact of war on the human spirit.

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Hans Heysen

Painter & landscape artist, 'The Droving Scene'
Born
October 8th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 91 years old

Born in Germany and migrating to Australia, a notable painter specialized in landscape paintings. His works often depicted the Australian outback and rural life, showcasing the natural beauty of the environment. He was awarded the Wynne Prize multiple times, emphasizing excellence in landscape painting. The artist's distinctive style incorporated elements of light and color, reflecting the unique Australian landscape. Active in the early to mid-20th century, the painter contributed significantly to Australian art through his exhibitions and teaching.

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Cassandre

French painter and graphic designer
Born
January 24th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent figure in the world of design and art, this painter specialized in poster art during the 1920s and 1930s. Renowned for a style that combined Art Deco and modernist elements, created iconic advertising posters for various brands. Contributed significantly to the development of typographic design, particularly with significant work in the field of commercial graphics. His illustrations often featured vibrant colors and geometric shapes that captured the spirit of the era. Worked not only in painting but also in fabric design and contributed murals for public spaces.

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Benny Wearing

Rugby league player with Australian club St. George
Born
June 11th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 67 years old

Played rugby league for St. George between 1922 and 1928. Contributed to the team's strong performance during his tenure. Participated in multiple matches that highlighted his skills on the field.

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