What Happened This Year 1968

People Who Died in 1968

Robert Z. Leonard

American actor, director, producer
Born
October 7th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 79 years old

An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the American film industry during the early to mid-20th century. Directed films such as 'Love Me Tonight,' 'The Merry Widow,' and 'The Show of Shows.' Worked with several major studios, including MGM, where involvement in numerous successful projects reflected a notable career in directing and production. Transitioned from acting to directing and produced several films, establishing a dual career in front of and behind the camera.

Continue Reading

Hans Heysen

Painter & landscape artist, 'The Droving Scene'
Born
October 8th, 1877 147 years ago
Died
1968 57 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.

Continue Reading

Deendayal Upadhyaya

Indian economist and sociologist
Born
September 25th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 52 years old

Contributed to the Bharatiya Jana Sangh's ideology, emphasizing self-reliance and cultural nationalism. Led efforts in promoting Dharmachakra, which sought to integrate economic and social principles based on Indian traditions. Authored several works, including 'Integral Humanism', outlining a philosophy for development that resonates with Indian values. Actively participated in journalism and political discourse, shaping the narrative around Indian identity and socio-economic progress.

Continue Reading

Pitirim Sorokin

Sociologist and political activist
Born
January 21st, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1889, this individual became a prominent sociologist and political activist in the United States. Emigrating from Russia, he contributed significantly to the field of sociology with a focus on social change and cultural dynamics. This individual founded the Harvard University Sociology Department and authored numerous influential works, exploring the interplay between culture, social structure, and human behavior. Additionally, this individual engaged in political activism, advocating for social reforms and addressing issues of war and peace. The body of work shaped sociological thought and practice, particularly in the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Harold D. Babcock

American astronomer and solar researcher
Born
January 24th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, focusing on solar studies. Babcock developed techniques for measuring the magnetic fields of sunspots and analyzing solar flares. His research on the solar cycle revealed important patterns in solar activity. This work advanced the understanding of the sun's influence on Earth's space weather, directly impacting satellite operations and communication technologies.

Continue Reading

Walter Nash

New Zealand Prime Minister and lawyer
Born
February 12th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 86 years old

Born in England and later migrating to New Zealand, played a significant role in New Zealand's political landscape as a lawyer and politician. Served as the 27th Prime Minister from 1957 to 1960. Led the Labour Party and emphasized social welfare policies and economic growth during his tenure. Involved in various international negotiations representing New Zealand's interests.

Continue Reading

Cy Walter

American pianist and composer
Born
September 16th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1915, a talented pianist and composer excelled in the genre of light classical music and popular songs. Gained recognition for virtuosic playing style and innovative compositions. Performed in various venues, captivating audiences with intricate arrangements. His work also included collaborations with notable musicians and appearances on radio and television.

Continue Reading

Ivan Ribar

Yugoslav politician and leader
Born
January 21st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1881, this individual played a significant role in the establishment of socialist policies in Yugoslavia following World War II. He held various leadership positions within the Yugoslav government, including serving as the first President of the People's Assembly of Yugoslavia from 1945 to 1953. Actively involved in the Partisan movement during the war, he contributed to the fight against Axis forces and the subsequent formation of a socialist federation. His political career extended beyond that period, influencing the direction of Yugoslav governance and its alignment within the Eastern Bloc throughout the late 1940s and into the 1950s.

Continue Reading

Benny Wearing

Rugby league player with Australian club St. George
Born
June 11th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1968 57 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.

Continue Reading