What Happened This Year 1968

Historical Events from This Year 1968

Politics & Government

Ba'ath Party Takes Control of Iraq

July 17th, 1968 56 years ago

The Ba'ath Party seized power in Iraq, ousting President Abdul Rahman Arif. Led by Ahmed Hassan al-Bakr, this coup marked a significant shift in Iraq's governance. The coup was largely motivated by political instability and discontent with the existing regime. It led to the establishment of a new ruling authority, poised for rapid transformation in Iraqi society.

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Science & Technology

Founding of Intel Corporation in California

July 18th, 1968 56 years ago

Intel Corporation, a pivotal player in the semiconductor industry, was founded in Mountain View, California by Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore. The company was established primarily to develop memory chips, which were becoming increasingly essential for computers. Noyce, who co-invented the integrated circuit, and Moore, known for Moore's Law, envisioned a company that would innovate in technology. Intel's formation marked the beginning of a new era in computing, driving advancements and setting the stage for the microprocessor revolution.

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Sports & Recreation

First International Special Olympics Held in Chicago

July 20th, 1968 56 years ago

The first International Special Olympics Summer Games featured about 1,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities competing at Soldier Field in Chicago. This groundbreaking event aimed to provide athletes with the opportunity to showcase their talents and promote inclusivity in sports. Additionally, it served as a platform to raise awareness about the capabilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities, who often faced stigmatization and exclusion. The participation of athletes from across the globe highlighted the need for more inclusive sports practices.

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Crime & Law

El Al Boeing 707 Hijacking by Militants

July 23rd, 1968 56 years ago

A Boeing 707 from Rome to Lod was hijacked by three members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. The aircraft, carrying ten crew and 38 passengers, was diverted and taken to Algiers. Negotiations ensued, and eventually, hostages were released after discussions concerning the release of prisoners in Israel.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Cleveland's Glenville Shootout Unleashes Violence

July 23rd, 1968 56 years ago

A violent confrontation erupted in Cleveland, Ohio, between the Black Militant organization, known as the Glenville Seven, and local police forces. This intense firefight, lasting several hours, resulted in several deaths, injuries, and widespread destruction. Following the shootout, a riot ensued that lasted for five days, fueled by tensions surrounding civil rights and socio-economic disparities in the community. The aftermath saw significant media coverage and discussions regarding police-community relations and racial inequality.

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Politics & Government

Trương Đình Dzu Sentenced for Political Opposition

July 26th, 1968 56 years ago

Trương Đình Dzu, a prominent South Vietnamese politician, was sentenced to five years of hard labor for his advocacy of a coalition government. This move was seen as a controversial attempt to seek a peaceful resolution to the ongoing Vietnam War. Dzu's stance reflected the deep political divisions and the struggle for power within South Vietnam's government and amid exacerbating conflict. His sentencing highlighted the risks faced by those who opposed the dominant military government at the time.

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Politics & Government

Coronation of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah

August 1st, 1968 56 years ago

The coronation ceremony of Hassanal Bolkiah marked his ascension as the 29th Sultan of Brunei. Taking place in the capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan, it was a significant cultural event that celebrated the nation's history and traditions. The ceremony featured various traditional rites, religious observances, and was attended by local and international dignitaries. The event highlighted Brunei's rich heritage and the role of the Sultanate in the region. Hassanal Bolkiah's coronation was accompanied by festivities that reflected the country's Islamic values and the unity of its people.

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Natural Disasters

Casiguran Earthquake Devastates Community

August 2nd, 1968 56 years ago

A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck Casiguran, Aurora, resulting in over 270 fatalities and injuring 261 individuals. The quake's epicenter was located near the town, causing widespread destruction to structures, including homes, schools, and commercial buildings. Many residents were left homeless, and emergency services were overwhelmed by the scale of the disaster. Rescue and recovery efforts were initiated despite the challenges posed by aftershocks and the urgency of providing aid to the affected population.

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Politics & Government

Assassination Attempt on Georgios Papadopoulos

August 13th, 1968 56 years ago

Alexandros Panagoulis attempted to assassinate Colonel Georgios Papadopoulos in Varkiza, Athens, using explosives during a busy summer day. Panagoulis, a Greek politician and dissident, aimed to bring attention to the oppressive regime of Papadopoulos, who had been in power since a coup in 1967. The attempt failed, leading to Panagoulis’s arrest and subsequent torture. This act of resistance highlighted the growing discontent among the Greek populace towards the military junta.

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