What Happened This Year 1968

People Who Died in 1968

Lucio Fontana

Painter and sculptor of Spatialism
Born
February 19th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 69 years old

Argentinian-Italian painter and sculptor developed the artistic movement known as Spatialism, which emphasized the conceptual dimensions of art beyond traditional canvases. Explored the relationship between art and space, often through iconic slashed paintings and three-dimensional works. Contributed significantly to contemporary art in the mid-20th century by founding the Zero Group. Engaged with ideas of time and space in a way that influenced future art practices.

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Wally Grout

Australian cricketer and wicket-keeper
Born
March 30th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent cricketer, made significant contributions as a wicket-keeper for Australia during the 1950s and 1960s. Accumulated 139 dismissals in Test matches, ranking among the top wicket-keepers of the era. Played a key role in the Australian team that won the 1958-59 Ashes series against England and participated in the 1960-61 series. His skills behind the stumps were complemented by useful lower-order batting, contributing to numerous victories on the international stage.

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Pieter Oud

Dutch politician, Minister of Finance
Born
December 5th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 82 years old

Born in the Netherlands in 1886, a prominent figure in Dutch politics and academia. Served as the Minister of Finance from 1945 to 1948, playing a significant role in the post-World War II economic recovery of the Netherlands. Emphasized the importance of economic reforms and was influential in shaping fiscal policies during a critical time in Dutch history. Besides political work, also contributed to the field of history through academic pursuits.

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Charles Bacon

American runner and Olympic hurdler
Born
January 9th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1885, a prominent American runner and hurdler participated in the early 20th century athletic scene. Competed in the 1908 Summer Olympics in London, achieving notable results in the 110 meters hurdles. Dominated numerous national championships during the career, establishing a reputation in American track and field. Continued to influence the sport even after retiring from competitive events.

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Denise Legeay

French actress with numerous films
Born
January 22nd, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 70 years old

Born in France in 1898, an actress had a significant career in film beginning in the silent era and transitioning into talkies. Labeled as a prominent figure in French cinema, she starred in various productions throughout her career. Notable works include performances in 'La Femme de nulle part' and 'Le Dernier des six'. She contributed to the cultural landscape of French film during her time.

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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.

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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.

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Tian Han

Chinese playwright and lyricist
Born
March 12th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1898, a significant figure in modern Chinese theatre, contributing to the establishment of the Chinese national drama. Worked extensively in the development of the Beijing opera and wrote numerous plays that focused on social issues. Also crafted lyrics for revolutionary songs, including 'March of the Volunteers', which became the national anthem of the People's Republic of China. His artistic expressions reflected a blend of traditional Chinese and modern Western elements.

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Sergei Natanovich Bernstein

Mathematician and academic
Born
March 5th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1880, a prominent mathematician contributed significantly to several fields including probability theory, functional analysis, and the theory of differential equations. Bernstein studied at Moscow State University and later held academic positions in various institutions. The Bernstein polynomial is a significant development in approximation theory. Later work involved research in statistical mechanics and the foundations of probability.

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