What Happened This Year 1968

People Who Died in 1968

Chika Kuroda

Japanese chemist and researcher
Born
March 24th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1956 68 years ago — 72 years old

Contributions to the field of chemistry significantly advanced understanding of natural compounds and their applications. Worked at the University of Tokyo and focused on plant pigment chemistry. Published numerous research papers that contributed to the global knowledge of organic compounds derived from plants. Kuroda's work laid the foundation for future studies in natural product chemistry.

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J. L. B. Smith

Chemist and academic; worked in organic chemistry.
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1968 57 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent chemist and academic, contributions focused on the field of organic chemistry. This individual served as a professor at several institutions and made significant advancements in chemical education. Research involved the study of natural products and the synthesis of complex organic compounds. Authored numerous publications that advanced the understanding of chemical processes. Leadership roles in academic societies enhanced the landscape of chemistry in the region.

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Ali Fuat Cebesoy

Turkish General and Politician
Born
1882 143 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1968 57 years ago — 86 years old

Served as a prominent general during the Turkish War of Independence. Held the role of the 6th Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey from 1946 to 1948. Engaged in military tactics and strategies that shaped the modern Turkish state. Contributed to the establishment of the new Republic.

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Dorothea Mackellar

Australian poet and author of 'My Country'
Born
July 1st, 1885 139 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1968 57 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Australia, a well-regarded poet and author played a significant role in shaping Australian literature. Best remembered for the poem 'My Country', which expresses a deep connection to the Australian landscape, the work became a defining piece of Australian identity. Apart from poetry, contributions include essays and articles that reflect on Australian life and nature. Active in advocating for women’s rights and involvement in literary circles, advocated for women's participation in literature during a time when it was often overlooked.

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Panagiotis Poulitsas

Archaeologist and judge in Greece
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1968 57 years ago — 87 years old

Engaged in extensive archaeological work in Greece, contributing significantly to the field through research and excavation. Played a key role in legal matters pertaining to archaeological heritage and preservation. Involved in various academic and professional organizations dedicated to archaeology and law. His efforts helped establish best practices for archaeological site management.

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Bob Jones Sr.

Evangelist and founder of Bob Jones University
Born
1883 142 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1968 57 years ago — 85 years old

An American evangelist founded an influential Christian institution in 1927, emphasizing conservative fundamentalism and distinct educational philosophies. Played a pivotal role in shaping the school's policies and curriculum, which reflected his beliefs. The university became a significant center for Christian education, attracting students dedicated to a fundamentalist worldview. Advocated for traditional values in education and maintained a strong stance against secular influences.

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Ray Harroun

Race car driver and engineer, Marmon Wasp
Born
January 12th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1968 57 years ago — 89 years old

An American race car driver and engineer, contributed significantly to the evolution of motorsports. Achieved fame by winning the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911 driving the Marmon Wasp. Pioneered the use of rearview mirrors in automobiles to enhance driver safety and visibility. Harroun's innovations and racing strategies played a crucial role in shaping early 20th-century auto racing.

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Duke Kahanamoku

Swimmer and Water Polo Player
Born
August 24th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1968 57 years ago — 77 years old

An American swimmer and water polo player, significant contributions to both sports were made. Competed in the 1912 and 1920 Summer Olympics, winning three gold medals and two silver medals in individual swimming events. Played polo for the United States team in water polo at the 1932 Summer Olympics. Kahanamoku was also instrumental in popularizing surfing, introducing the sport to many in California and beyond, and he served as a cultural ambassador for Hawaii throughout his life.

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Yvor Winters

American poet and literary critic
Born
October 17th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1968 57 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed significantly to American poetry and literary criticism in the 20th century. Authored several poetry collections, including 'The Immortal Evening' and 'The Documentation of a Poet's Life'. Held a teaching position at Stanford University, where influence on young poets shaped the literary landscape. Engaged in critical analysis, advocating for formalism and precision in poetry. Edited and wrote for various literary journals, promoting a rigorous approach to literature and criticism.

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