What Happened This Year 1968

People Who Died in 1968

Arnold Zweig

German author and activist
Born
November 10th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1887, this individual became a prominent figure in German literature and activism. His early works focused on the experiences of soldiers during World War I. The novel 'The Case of Sergeant Grischa' gained acclaim for its exploration of the disillusionment faced by soldiers. In addition to fiction, he engaged in political activities, advocating for social justice and peace throughout his life. Exiled due to the rise of the Nazi regime, he continued to write and critique totalitarianism from abroad, eventually returning to Germany after the war. His literary contributions included various essays and works that examined the human condition in times of conflict.

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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.

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Karl Kobelt

Swiss lawyer and politician
Born
August 1st, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent Swiss lawyer and politician, Kobelt served as the 52nd President of the Swiss Confederation. His legal career included significant contributions to Swiss law and governance. Throughout his political career, he participated in various legislative reforms and discussions impacting the Swiss political landscape. Kobelt played an influential role in enhancing Switzerland's national policies during his tenure.

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George Hackenschmidt

Wrestler and strongman; world champion
Born
August 1st, 1877 147 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 91 years old

Originating from Estonia, a wrestler and strongman emerged as a prominent figure in the early 20th century. Attributed with popularizing professional wrestling, contributed to the establishment of its conventions and rules. Achieved substantial success in the heavyweight division, holding the World Heavyweight Wrestling Championship multiple times. Transitioned into performing as a strongman, showcasing feats of strength across various venues in Europe and America. Authored books on physical culture and strength training, influencing fitness philosophy and practices.

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Johnny Indrisano

American boxer and lightweight champion
Born
November 1st, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1906, this boxer became prominent in the lightweight division during the 1920s and 1930s. Achieving notoriety in the ring, he fought numerous significant matches, ultimately capturing the World Lightweight Championship. His boxing career included various title defenses, showcasing skill and determination. Retiring from professional boxing, he later contributed to the sport as a trainer, imparting techniques and strategies to emerging talents.

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K. Kanapathypillai

Sri Lankan author and academic
Born
July 2nd, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 66 years old

Contributions to literature and academia defined a career. Writings encompassed Tamil literature and cultural studies, with emphasis on the Tamil diaspora. Served as a professor and influenced numerous students through academic pursuits. Engaged in literary and scholarly activities that enriched understanding of Tamil identity and heritage.

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Walter Robins

English cricketer and footballer
Born
June 3rd, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 62 years old

Played professional cricket and football during the early 20th century. Achieved recognition as a cricketer with several appearances for Sussex between 1927 and 1938. In football, played as a forward for various clubs including Portsmouth and Brighton & Hove Albion, contributing to their successes in the Football League.

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Giovanni Messe

Italian field marshal and politician
Born
December 10th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1883, this individual served as a prominent field marshal in the Italian Army during World War II. His military career included key roles in various campaigns, particularly in North Africa and Russia. After the war, he transitioned into politics, representing the National Republican Party. His influence extended through military strategy and political leadership in post-war Italy.

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Dorothy Garrod

British archaeologist and excavator in Palestine
Born
May 5th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 76 years old

A leading figure in archaeology, contributions focused on the Paleolithic period and early human cultures. Conducted significant excavations at Mount Carmel in Israel, uncovering key archaeological findings. Worked extensively to promote the role of women in archaeology, contributing to academic literature and education. Held the position of the first female professor at the University of Cambridge.

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