What Happened This Year 1968
People Who Died in 1968
Howard Florey
A pathologist and pharmacologist. Contributed significantly to the development and mass production of penicillin during World War II. Played a crucial role in the research and clinical trials that demonstrated the drug's efficacy against bacterial infections. Served as the Director of the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology at the University of Oxford, where further advancements in antibiotics were made. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945 alongside two other scientists for contributions to the discovery of penicillin.
Continue ReadingFrankie Lymon
A prominent American singer-songwriter rose to fame as the lead singer of the Teenagers, a rock and roll group. Achieved commercial success with the hit single 'Why Do Fools Fall in Love,' which topped the charts in 1956. Lymon's music career began at a young age, and his distinct voice contributed significantly to the doo-wop genre. He later pursued a solo career but faced challenges in achieving similar acclaim. Struggled with personal issues, including substance abuse, which affected his life and career. Passed away at a young age, leaving behind a legacy in music history.
Continue ReadingTore Ørjasæter
A prominent Norwegian poet and educator contributed significantly to the literary landscape of Norway. Ørjasæter wrote in both Nynorsk and Bokmål, reflecting his commitment to the Norwegian language. The poet published several influential works, with a focus on rural life and the beauty of nature. Engaging in education, he served as a teacher and promoted the importance of literature in the learning process. Ørjasæter's literary voice resonated with the themes of identity, nationalism, and the Norwegian landscape, positioning him as a key figure in early 20th-century Norwegian poetry.
Continue ReadingErwin Panofsky
Contributions included foundational work in art history and iconology. Focused on the analysis of art within its historical context, developing methods to interpret the symbolic content of artworks. Published influential texts, including 'Studies in Iconology' and 'Meaning in the Visual Arts', which shaped the discipline and provided frameworks still in use today. Actively taught at various institutions, establishing courses that influenced future generations of art historians.
Continue ReadingGunnar Ekelöf
A prominent figure in Swedish literature, produced a significant body of poetry and translations that contributed to modernist movements. Notable works include 'Sent på jorden' and 'Splittring'. Translated various authors, including Edgar Allan Poe, introducing Swedish readers to diverse literary styles. Received the Swedish Academy's major award for contributions to literature. Ekelöf's writings often explored themes of existentialism and identity, reflecting personal and cultural experiences.
Continue ReadingMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco
This individual was an Italian-American composer and pianist, primarily recognized for contributions to classical music. Born in Italy, he moved to the United States in the 1930s, where collaboration with prominent musicians occurred. Significant compositions include concertos, chamber music, and film scores. His work often blended traditional classical forms with modern influences, highlighting the guitar, a favored instrument. He composed over 200 works for various genres, including operas and symphonies, leaving a lasting influence on 20th-century music. Education was also an important aspect, as he taught composition and piano, shaping future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingCarl Theodor Dreyer
An influential film director and screenwriter, recognized for innovative cinematic techniques and storytelling. Developed a unique style that emphasized stark emotion and visual composition. Most notable work includes the 1928 silent film 'The Passion of Joan of Arc', which is often cited for its dramatic intensity and pioneering use of close-ups. Created several other significant films across his career, contributing to early cinematic art and establishing a lasting legacy in world cinema.
Continue ReadingAlice Guy-Blaché
A pioneer in the film industry, directed over 400 films between 1896 and 1920. Established one of the first film studios in the United States. Played a crucial role in the early development of narrative cinema. Worked extensively in both silent and early sound films, developing innovative techniques that influenced future filmmakers.
Continue ReadingYuri Gagarin
A Soviet pilot and cosmonaut, became the first human to travel into space on April 12, 1961, aboard the Vostok 1 spacecraft. The mission lasted 108 minutes, orbiting the Earth once. This historic flight marked a significant achievement in the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union. After the space flight, served as a deputy training director for future cosmonauts and participated in various public engagements promoting space exploration. Received numerous awards and decorations for contributions to space science and aeronautics until untimely death in a plane crash in 1968.
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