What Happened This Year 1968

People Who Died in 1968

Constance Georgina Adams

South African botanist and plant researcher
Born
August 6th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 85 years old

Specialized in the study of South African flora, with significant contributions to botany through extensive research and publication. Involved with the Botanical Research Institute of South Africa, where research focused on the classification and documentation of plant species. Published key works that provided insights into the ecology and distribution of indigenous plant species. Actively participated in local and international botanical societies, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among peers.

Continue Reading

Channing H. Cox

American lawyer and Massachusetts governor
Born
October 28th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the 49th Governor of Massachusetts from 1921 to 1925. Prior to governorship, held positions such as Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth from 1915 to 1920. Worked as a lawyer and was involved in various political and civic activities throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Padre Pio

Italian priest and mystic saint
Born
May 25th, 1887 138 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.

Continue Reading

Gholamreza Takhti

Iranian wrestler and politician
Born
August 27th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 38 years old

Competed in wrestling, achieving significant success in the sport, including winning a gold medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Played a crucial role in promoting wrestling in Iran and served as a politician, advocating for athletes and the sport. His influence extended beyond the sports arena, making contributions to Iranian society and culture.

Continue Reading

Craig Wood

American golfer and major championship winner
Born
November 18th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 67 years old

A professional golfer, contributed significantly to the sport during the early to mid-20th century. Played in several major championships, securing a prominent place in golf history. Achieved remarkable success in 1941 by winning the Masters Tournament, further enhancing reputation. Competed multiple times in the U.S. Open, finishing as a runner-up on three occasions throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Represented the United States in international competitions, showcasing exceptional talent and sportsmanship.

Continue Reading

Ernest "Pop" Stoneman

Country musician known for 'The Stoneman Family'
Born
May 25th, 1893 132 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.

Continue Reading

Joseph William Martin Jr.

American politician, 49th Speaker of the House
Born
November 3rd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent publisher and politician, served as the 49th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1947 to 1949 and again from 1953 to 1955. Represented Massachusetts' 3rd congressional district for 26 years, winning elections in multiple terms. Played a significant role in Republican leadership and was influential during the post-World War II era. Authored several works and was actively involved in various legislative processes.

Continue Reading

Zofia Kossak-Szczucka

Polish writer and WWII Resistance member
Born
August 10th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 79 years old

A Polish writer actively involved in the World War II resistance movement against Nazi occupation. Authored several acclaimed novels and works focusing on Polish history and culture. Demonstrated commitment to preserving Polish heritage during the war. Also engaged in various efforts to assist Jewish individuals facing persecution during the Holocaust.

Continue Reading

Little Walter Jacobs

Blues harp player with 'Juke'
Born
May 1st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 38 years old

An influential blues harp player and singer, contributed significantly to the Chicago blues scene. Developed a unique style that blended harmonica playing with vocal techniques, shaping the sound of electric blues. Achieved commercial success during the 1950s and 1960s with a string of hit songs. His work laid the foundation for future harp players and influenced countless musicians.

Continue Reading