What Happened This Year 1968

People Who Died in 1968

Lawson Little

Professional golfer with major tournament wins
Born
June 23rd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1968 57 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.

Continue Reading

Francis Biddle

U.S. Attorney General during WWII
Born
May 19th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1968 57 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.

Continue Reading

Padre Pio

Italian priest and mystic saint
Born
May 25th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1968 57 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

Ernest "Pop" Stoneman

Country musician known for 'The Stoneman Family'
Born
May 25th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1968 57 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

Deendayal Upadhyaya

Indian economist and sociologist
Born
September 25th, 1916 109 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

Pablo de Rokha

Chilean poet recognized for literary impact
Born
October 17th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1968 57 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.

Continue Reading