What Happened This Year 1968
Historical Events from This Year 1968
Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy
Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated by Sirhan Sirhan at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles shortly after delivering a victory speech upon winning the California primary. Sirhan was a 24-year-old Palestinian, who claimed to have acted out of anger towards Kennedy's pro-Israel stance. The shooting took place around midnight, with Kennedy succumbing to his injuries the following day.
Continue ReadingArrest of James Earl Ray at Heathrow Airport
James Earl Ray, the man accused of assassinating Martin Luther King Jr., was apprehended at London Heathrow Airport while attempting to flee the United States. Law enforcement authorities discovered him based on an international manhunt and quickly took him into custody. Ray had been on the run since the murder of King in April of that year, moving through various locations before arriving in London. His capture marked a significant moment in the ongoing investigation into King's assassination.
Continue ReadingLyndon B. Johnson's National Mourning Declaration
Following the assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy, U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson declared a national day of mourning. This declaration honored Kennedy's contributions as a political leader and his vision for America, inviting citizens to reflect on his life and legacy. The announcement called for a moment of silence and remembrance, impacting the nation as it processed the loss of a prominent figure within the Democratic Party and the broader context of 1960s America, marked by civil rights struggles and anti-war sentiment.
Continue ReadingIdentification of First Cell Surface Antigens
Lloyd J. Old identified the first cell surface antigens that could distinguish between different types of cells. This groundbreaking work at the New York University Medical Center laid the foundation for immunology and cancer research by targeting specific proteins on the surface of cells. With the identification of these antigens, scientists could better understand the immune response and develop new therapies and diagnostic tools.
Continue ReadingPope Paul VI Issues Credo of the People of God
Pope Paul VI formally promulgated the 'Credo of the People of God', affirming core Catholic beliefs in light of the changes brought by the Second Vatican Council. This document was significant for outlining the Church's position on faith and reinforcing traditional doctrines amid evolving social contexts. Celebrated on June 30 at the Vatican, it served both as a response to concerns about secularization and as a guide for the faithful.
Continue ReadingUAW Officially Leaves AFL–CIO Coalition
The United Auto Workers (UAW) formally separated from the AFL–CIO, marking a significant shift in labor relations in the United States. This decision followed longstanding tensions between the two organizations regarding leadership and direction. The UAW, advocating for a more independent and militant approach towards labor issues, chose to forge its own path in order to better address the unique needs of its membership, primarily in the automotive industry. The separation was emblematic of a broader movement within labor to seek greater autonomy and influence outside of established unions.
Continue ReadingEstablishment of the Phoenix Program by CIA
The Phoenix Program was established to combat the Viet Cong. Aimed at targeting the infrastructure of the Viet Cong in South Vietnam, the program involved a mix of intelligence gathering, covert operations, and attempts to win the hearts and minds of the Vietnamese populace. It focused on identifying and dismantling the Viet Cong's support network, ultimately seeking to reduce their influence and operational capabilities in the region.
Continue ReadingNuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Signed
Sixty-two countries signed the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear arms, enhancing global security and promoting peaceful uses of nuclear technology. The treaty was negotiated in the context of the Cold War, reflecting the urgency of addressing nuclear proliferation as more countries developed nuclear capabilities.
Continue ReadingChrysler Wildcat Strike in Detroit
A wildcat strike began at Chrysler's Detroit plant, initiated by auto workers protesting working conditions, pay disparities, and longer hours. The stoppage spread quickly, illustrating widespread discontent among autoworkers and prompting significant media attention.
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