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Major Events of 1968: Key Historical Moments You Need to Know

Every year brings its own set of pivotal moments that leave a lasting mark on history. From political shifts and technological advancements to cultural breakthroughs, these events shape the world and influence the future. In this comprehensive overview, we’ll explore the most significant occurrences from 1968, highlighting key moments that continue to impact our lives today.

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Major Events of 1968 - Historical Moments That Defined the Year | TakeMeBack.to

  • 01 Jan Creedence Clearwater Revival Forms: The music group The Blue Velvets officially changes its name to Creedence Clearwater Revival, marking the beginning of one of the most iconic rock bands of the late 1960s.
  • 02 Jan Second Heart Transplant by Dr. Christiaan Barnard: Dr. Christiaan Barnard performed the world's second heart transplant on Louis Washkansky at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town, South Africa. This groundbreaking medical procedure marked a significant milestone in surgical history and advanced understanding of organ transplantation.
  • 04 Jan Leo Fender Sells Fender Guitars Company: On January 4, 1968, legendary guitar manufacturer Leo Fender sold his iconic Fender Guitars company for $13 million. This sale marked a significant moment in music industry history, transferring ownership of a brand that had revolutionized electric guitar design and sound.
  • 05 Jan Prague Spring Begins in Czechoslovakia: Alexander Dubček assumes leadership of the Czechoslovak Communist Party, initiating a period of political liberalization known as the 'Prague Spring'. This reform movement sought to introduce democratic socialism and reduce Soviet control over Czechoslovakia, marking a significant moment of potential political transformation in the Eastern Bloc.
  • 06 Jan First US Adult Cardiac Transplant Operation: Dr. Norman E. Shumway, a pioneering cardiac surgeon at Stanford University, performed the first successful adult cardiac transplant operation in the United States. This groundbreaking medical procedure marked a significant milestone in cardiovascular surgery and organ transplantation.
  • 07 Jan Surveyor 7 Lunar Mission Launch: The Surveyor 7, the final spacecraft in NASA's Surveyor lunar exploration program, was launched from Cape Canaveral's launch complex 36A. This mission represented the culmination of the Surveyor series, which played a crucial role in gathering critical data about the lunar surface in preparation for the Apollo moon landings.
  • 08 Jan Diplomatic Meeting Between Northern Ireland and Ireland: Northern Ireland Prime Minister Terence O'Neill made a significant diplomatic visit to Dublin, meeting with Irish Prime Minister Jack Lynch to discuss matters of mutual governmental interest. This meeting represented an important moment of cross-border dialogue during a politically tense period in Irish history.
  • 09 Jan US Surveyor 7 Lunar Landing: NASA's Surveyor 7 space probe successfully performs a soft landing on the Moon, completing the Surveyor program and contributing crucial scientific data about lunar surface conditions.
  • 10 Jan US Surveyor 7 Lunar Landing: NASA's Surveyor 7 spacecraft successfully landed near the lunar crater Tycho, marking the final mission in the Surveyor program's exploration of the Moon's surface. This mission provided critical scientific data about lunar terrain and geology.
  • 11 Jan Death of Isidor Isaac Rabi, Renowned Physicist: Isidor Isaac Rabi, a prominent American physicist and Nobel Prize laureate, passed away. Rabi was a key scientific figure of the 20th century, known for his groundbreaking work in quantum mechanics and contributions to the development of radar technology during World War II. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1944 for his research on magnetic properties of atomic nuclei.
  • 12 Jan Beatles Rename Film Production Company: The Beatles' film production company officially changes its name from Beatles Film Production Ltd to Apple Film Production Ltd, signaling the early stages of their Apple Corps business venture. This renaming was part of the band's expanding business and creative interests during their later years together.
  • 13 Jan Tet Offensive Begins in Vietnam War: The Tet Offensive, a coordinated series of attacks by North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces against South Vietnamese and United States military targets, commenced, marking a pivotal moment in the Vietnam War.
  • 14 Jan Super Bowl II: Green Bay Packers Triumph: In a decisive victory, the Green Bay Packers defeated the Oakland Raiders 33-14 at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida. Quarterback Bart Starr was named Most Valuable Player, solidifying the Packers' dominance in professional football during the late 1960s.
  • 15 Jan Jeannette Rankin Anti-War March: At 87 years old, pioneering congresswoman Jeannette Rankin leads a massive protest of approximately 5,000 women in Washington D.C. against the Vietnam War, demonstrating remarkable political activism in her later years.
  • 16 Jan Youth International Party (Yippies) Founded: The Youth International Party, commonly known as the Yippies, was established as a radical, youth-oriented political movement blending counterculture activism with political protest. Founded by Abbie Hoffman and Jerry Rubin, the group would become a significant force in the late 1960s anti-war and social justice movements.
  • 17 Jan First Manned Spacecraft Docking: Soyuz 4 and 5: Soviet spacecraft Soyuz 4 and Soyuz 5 successfully completed the first-ever docking of two manned spacecraft in orbit, marking a significant milestone in human spaceflight and demonstrating advanced space rendezvous capabilities.
  • 18 Jan Eartha Kitt's Controversial White House Appearance: Actress and singer Eartha Kitt attended a White House luncheon hosted by Lady Bird Johnson focused on 'Women for Peace'. During this event, Kitt famously and critically spoke out against the Vietnam War, causing significant political controversy and personal repercussions for her career.
  • 19 Jan Soviet Nuclear Test at Semipalatinsk: The Soviet Union conducts a nuclear weapons test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in Kazakhstan, continuing Cold War-era nuclear proliferation and weapons development efforts in the remote northeastern region.
  • 20 Jan Houston Ends UCLA's Historic Basketball Winning Streak: In a stunning upset, the University of Houston defeated the UCLA Bruins, breaking their remarkable 47-game consecutive winning streak with a narrow 71-69 victory. This game was a significant moment in college basketball history, challenging UCLA's dominance under legendary coach John Wooden.
  • 21 Jan Battle of Khe Sanh Begins: One of the most publicized and controversial battles of the Vietnam War begins at the Khe Sanh Combat Base. This strategic engagement would become a critical moment in the conflict, symbolizing the intense military confrontations between U.S. and North Vietnamese forces.
  • 22 Jan Apollo 5 Lunar Module Launch: NASA launches Apollo 5, carrying the first Lunar Module into space, a critical milestone in the Apollo Program's mission to land humans on the Moon.
  • 23 Jan USS Pueblo Incident: North Korean Seizure of US Navy Intelligence Ship: On January 23, 1968, the USS Pueblo (AGER-2), a US Navy intelligence ship, was attacked and seized by North Korean patrol boats in the Sea of Japan. The incident involved the capture of the ship and its 83-member crew, who were accused by North Korea of violating their territorial waters while conducting espionage operations. This event significantly escalated tensions between the United States and North Korea during the Cold War era.
  • 24 Jan Operation Coburg: Australian Military Action in Vietnam War: During the Vietnam War, the 1st Australian Task Force launched Operation Coburg, a significant military engagement against the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong forces near Long Bình and Biên Hòa. This operation represented a coordinated effort by Australian and New Zealand military personnel to combat communist forces in the region.
  • 25 Jan INS Dakar Submarine Tragedy: The Israeli submarine INS Dakar sank in the Mediterranean Sea in a tragic incident that resulted in the loss of 69 crew members, marking a significant maritime disaster for Israel.
  • 26 Jan Israeli Submarine Dakar Tragedy: The Israeli submarine INS Dakar mysteriously sank in the Mediterranean Sea, resulting in the tragic loss of all 69 crew members. This maritime disaster was a significant moment in Israeli naval history, highlighting the inherent risks of submarine operations during the Cold War era.
  • 27 Jan French Submarine Tragedy in Mediterranean: A French naval submarine sank in the Mediterranean Sea, resulting in the loss of 52 crew members. The incident highlights the inherent risks of maritime military operations during the Cold War era.
  • 28 Jan French Submarine Minerve Disaster: The French submarine Minerve tragically sank in the Mediterranean Sea, resulting in the loss of 52 crew members' lives. This maritime catastrophe highlighted the inherent risks of submarine operations during the Cold War era.
  • 29 Jan Billie Jean King Wins Australian Open: American tennis legend Billie Jean King defeated home favourite Margaret Court in the Australian Open, securing her 13th Grand Slam singles title. This victory further solidified King's status as one of the most dominant tennis players of her era and highlighted her exceptional skill and competitive spirit.
  • 30 Jan Tet Offensive Begins in Vietnam War: The Tet Offensive was a major coordinated series of surprise attacks launched by Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army forces against South Vietnamese and United States military positions across multiple urban centers. This strategic military campaign marked a critical turning point in the Vietnam War, demonstrating the resilience and tactical capabilities of communist forces.
  • 31 Jan Tet Offensive Begins: During the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet), Viet Cong guerrillas launched a massive, coordinated surprise attack on multiple targets in South Vietnam, including a bold assault on the United States embassy in Saigon. This strategic offensive marked a critical turning point in the Vietnam War, demonstrating the resilience and tactical capabilities of North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces.
  • 01 Feb Iconic Vietnam War Execution Photograph: South Vietnamese National Police Chief Nguyen Ngoc Loan publicly executed Viet Cong officer Nguyen Van Lem, a moment captured by photographer Eddie Adams that became a pivotal image symbolizing the brutality of the Vietnam War and significantly influencing public perception of the conflict.
  • 02 Feb Bombing of Springer Publishers in West Berlin: On February 2, 1968, Springer Publishers in West Berlin was targeted in a bombing incident, which was likely a politically motivated attack against the influential media organization.
  • 03 Feb Labour Party Loses Public Support Under Harold Wilson: Harold Wilson's Labour Party experienced a significant decline in public opinion following a series of controversial economic decisions, most notably the devaluation of the British pound. This political downturn marked a challenging period for the party, with growing public dissatisfaction and increasing support for the Conservative opposition.
  • 04 Feb Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'Drum Major Instinct' Sermon: Martin Luther King Jr. delivered a powerful sermon titled 'The Drum Major Instinct' at Ebenezer Baptist Church, exploring themes of humility, service, and personal legacy.
  • 05 Feb Battle of Khe Sanh Begins: A significant military engagement during the Vietnam War, the Battle of Khe Sanh was a prolonged and strategically important confrontation between U.S. and North Vietnamese forces. The battle began on this date, marking a critical moment in the conflict that would test American military strategy and resolve.
  • 06 Feb Battle of Khe Sanh: North Vietnamese Army Attacks U.S. Army Special Forces Camp: During the Vietnam War, the North Vietnamese Army launched a significant attack on the U.S. Army Special Forces camp at Lang Vei, marking the first use of tanks and armored vehicles in the assault. The 304th Division of the North Vietnamese Army overwhelmed the camp, resulting in the tragic deaths of 316 defenders, with only seven survivors. The defenders were primarily Montagnards fighting for South Vietnam and members of the Royal Laotian Army.
  • 07 Feb Battle of Lang Vei during Vietnam War: The North Vietnamese Army, supported by Soviet-built PT-76 tanks, launched a surprise attack on the Special Forces camp at Lang Vei, South Vietnam. The intense 12-hour battle resulted in significant casualties for both U.S. and South Vietnamese forces. U.S. Special Forces Sergeant First Class Eugene Ashley, Jr., heroically led a relief operation and was killed in the battle, posthumously earning the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery.
  • 08 Feb Iconic Vietnam War Execution Photographed: Saigon police chief Nguyễn Ngọc Loan publicly executed Viet Cong officer Nguyễn Văn Lém with a pistol shot to the head, a shocking moment captured by photographer Eddie Adams that became a powerful symbol of the Vietnam War's brutality.
  • 09 Feb Jean-Claude Killy Wins Olympic Downhill: French world champion Jean-Claude Killy secured a remarkable victory in the downhill skiing event at the 1968 Grenoble Winter Olympics on February 9. His performance was part of an extraordinary Olympic campaign where he would go on to win three gold medals, becoming a legendary figure in winter sports history.
  • 10 Feb Peggy Fleming Wins Olympic Gold in Figure Skating: American figure skater Peggy Fleming won the gold medal in women's figure skating at the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, France, marking a significant moment in American sports history.
  • 11 Feb Israeli-Jordanian Border Tensions: Clashes occurred along the Israeli-Jordanian border, reflecting the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East during the late 1960s. These border incidents were part of the broader regional instability following the 1967 Six-Day War.
  • 12 Feb Phong Nhi and Phong Nhat Massacre: A tragic event during the Vietnam War where Vietnamese civilians in Phong Nhi and Phong Nhat villages were killed, highlighting the brutal nature of the conflict.
  • 13 Feb US Military Deployment to Vietnam: The United States military escalates its involvement in the Vietnam War by deploying an additional 10,500 soldiers to the conflict zone, further intensifying the American military presence during this critical period of the war.
  • 14 Feb Pennsylvania Railroad Merger: The Pennsylvania Railroad and New York Central Railroad merged to form Pennsylvania Central, a significant consolidation in the American railroad industry that would reshape transportation infrastructure.
  • 15 Feb Biathlon 4x7.5k Relay Debuts at Grenoble Winter Olympics: The biathlon 4 x 7.5k relay event made its historic debut at the 1968 Grenoble Winter Olympics, marking a significant milestone in winter sports competition. This event combined cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, showcasing athletes' endurance and precision in a challenging winter sport discipline.
  • 16 Feb First 9-1-1 Emergency Phone System: Haleyville, Alabama became the first location in the United States to implement a comprehensive 9-1-1 emergency telephone system, revolutionizing public safety communication and emergency response nationwide.
  • 17 Feb Soviet Union Wins Olympic Ice Hockey Gold: The Soviet Union secures its third Olympic ice hockey gold medal at the Grenoble Winter Olympics, decisively defeating Canada 5-0 in the final round, further establishing their dominance in international ice hockey.
  • 18 Feb Anti-Vietnam War Demonstration in West Berlin: Approximately 10,000 demonstrators gather in West Berlin to protest the United States' involvement in the Vietnam War, reflecting growing international opposition to the conflict and the rising anti-war sentiment of the late 1960s.
  • 19 Feb Mister Rogers' Neighborhood Debuts: NET (National Educational Television, now PBS) televised the first episode of 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood', a groundbreaking children's educational program that would go on to become a beloved cultural institution. Fred Rogers' innovative approach to children's television programming would influence generations of young viewers.
  • 20 Feb China Academy of Space Technology Founded: The China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) is established in Beijing, marking a significant milestone in China's space research and satellite development capabilities. This institution would become a critical organization in China's space program, responsible for designing and manufacturing satellites and space technology.
  • 21 Feb West Berlin Anti-Leftist Demonstration: A massive demonstration of 150,000 people took place in West Berlin, protesting against leftist student movements during a period of significant political tension in Germany.
  • 22 Feb Johnny Cash Public Proposal: During a performance in Canada, legendary country music star Johnny Cash publicly proposed to June Carter. They would subsequently marry in March 1968, beginning one of the most iconic partnerships in music history.
  • 23 Feb First Victim of 'Bible John' Serial Killer: Patricia Docker, a 25-year-old woman, was found dead in Glasgow, Scotland, marking the first known victim of the notorious serial killer 'Bible John', who would go on to terrorize the city in the late 1960s. Her murder sparked a significant criminal investigation and public fear.
  • 24 Feb First Pulsar Discovery: Jocelyn Bell Burnell, a graduate student at Cambridge University, discovers the first pulsar (CP 1919), a significant breakthrough in astrophysics that would revolutionize our understanding of neutron stars and stellar evolution.
  • 25 Feb Ha My Massacre during Vietnam War: During the Vietnam War, 135 unarmed civilians in Ha My village, Quang Nam Province, South Vietnam, were killed and buried en masse by South Korean troops in a tragic and brutal incident.
  • 26 Feb Clandestine Radio Voice of Iraqi People Final Transmission: The communist-affiliated clandestine radio station 'Voice of Iraqi People' ceased broadcasting on February 26, 1968. This marked the end of an underground communication channel during a politically turbulent period in Iraq's history.
  • 27 Feb Tragic Death of Frankie Lymon: Frankie Lymon, a prominent ex-Teenagers singer, was found dead from a heroin overdose in Harlem, marking a tragic end to a promising musical career.
  • 28 Feb Pirate Radio Hauraki Returns to Broadcast: Pirate Radio Hauraki, a pioneering independent radio station broadcasting off the coast of New Zealand, resumed its transmissions after facing previous regulatory challenges. This marked a significant moment in New Zealand's broadcasting history, highlighting the station's resistance to government broadcasting restrictions and its role in challenging media control.
  • 29 Feb Kerner Commission Report on Racism: The National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders (Kerner Commission) releases a landmark report highlighting systemic racism and calling for substantial aid and support for Black communities.
  • 01 Mar NBC Announces Star Trek's Return: In an unprecedented on-air announcement, NBC confirmed that the groundbreaking science fiction series Star Trek would return, a moment significant for television and pop culture.
  • 02 Mar Soviet Submarine K-129 Sinks: Tragedy struck when the Soviet ballistic missile submarine K-129, a Golf II-class vessel, sank in the North Pacific Ocean approximately 90 nautical miles southwest of Hawaii, resulting in the loss of all 98 crew members.
  • 03 Mar Embassy Bombings in The Hague: On March 3, 1968, diplomatic tensions escalated as the embassies of Greece, Portugal, and Spain were bombed in The Hague, Netherlands, marking a significant act of political violence during a turbulent period in European history.
  • 04 Mar Martin Luther King Jr. Announces Poor People's Campaign: Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. publicly announces plans for the Poor People's Campaign, a major initiative aimed at addressing economic justice and poverty across racial lines in the United States.
  • 05 Mar East L.A. Student Walkouts Begin: The historic East L.A. walkouts commenced, with thousands of Hispanic students protesting educational inequality and systemic discrimination in the Los Angeles school system. These walkouts, a pivotal moment in the Chicano civil rights movement, demanded better educational opportunities, cultural representation, and an end to institutional racism.
  • 06 Mar East L.A. Walkouts: Student Protest for Educational Equality: The first of the historic East L.A. Walkouts occurred, with thousands of Hispanic students walking out of several high schools in East Los Angeles, California. This pivotal moment in the Chicano civil rights movement was a powerful demonstration against educational inequality and systemic discrimination.
  • 07 Mar Soviet Submarine K-129 Sinking: The Soviet ballistic missile submarine K-129 sinks in the North Pacific Ocean in a tragic incident that results in the loss of all 98 crew members, representing a significant maritime disaster during the Cold War period.
  • 08 Mar Polish Political Crisis Erupts: The first student protests mark the beginning of the 1968 Polish political crisis, a significant moment of social and political upheaval in communist-era Poland.
  • 09 Mar 10th Grammy Awards Ceremony: The 10th Grammy Awards ceremony was held, celebrating outstanding musical achievements. The 5th Dimension's 'Up, Up and Away' and The Beatles' 'Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band' were among the notable winners, with the latter receiving multiple awards for its groundbreaking musical innovation.
  • 10 Mar Battle of Lima Site 85 in Laos: During the Vietnam War, a significant military engagement took place at Lima Site 85, resulting in the largest single ground combat loss for the United States Air Force. Twelve American service members were killed during this covert operation in Laos, underscoring the complex and clandestine nature of the conflict.
  • 11 Mar ASCII Encoding Mandate: U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson issues a directive requiring all federal government computer purchases to support the ASCII character encoding standard, a pivotal moment in standardizing digital communication.
  • 12 Mar Mauritius Gains Independence from United Kingdom: Mauritius was granted independence from British rule shortly after midnight, with a flag-raising ceremony held in Port Louis, the capital. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam became the first Prime Minister of Independent Mauritius, and John Rennie was appointed as the first Governor-General of the newly independent nation.
  • 13 Mar Mauritius Gains Independence: The Indian Ocean island nation of Mauritius achieved independence from British colonial rule, marking a significant milestone in its political history. This event represented the continued decolonization process in the mid-20th century and the emergence of new sovereign states.
  • 14 Mar Dugway Proving Ground Nerve Gas Leak: A significant nerve gas leak occurred at the U.S. Army's Dugway Proving Ground near Skull Valley, Utah, raising serious environmental and public safety concerns about military chemical weapons testing.
  • 15 Mar My Lai Massacre during Vietnam War: American troops kill scores of civilians in the My Lai Massacre, a tragic event that would significantly undermine public support for U.S. military efforts in Vietnam when the story becomes public in November 1969.
  • 16 Mar My Lai Massacre: During the Vietnam War, American troops from Charlie Company committed a horrific war crime in the Son My district, systematically killing between 350-500 unarmed Vietnamese civilians, including men, women, and children. This brutal massacre became a pivotal moment in public perception of the Vietnam War, exposing the extreme violence and moral failures of military operations.
  • 17 Mar Anti-Vietnam War Protest in London: A demonstration in London's Grosvenor Square against U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War escalates into violence, with 91 people injured and 200 demonstrators arrested, reflecting the growing global opposition to the conflict.
  • 18 Mar U.S. Congress Repeals Gold Reserve Requirement: The United States Congress officially repealed the long-standing requirement that U.S. currency must be backed by gold reserves, marking a significant shift in monetary policy and signaling the end of the traditional gold standard.
  • 19 Mar Lima Site 85 Overrun by North Vietnamese and Laotian Troops: On March 19, 1968, North Vietnamese and communist Laotian troops successfully attacked and overran a secret US radar facility located on a mountaintop in Laos, a significant military engagement during the Vietnam War.
  • 20 Mar End of Gold Standard in US Currency: On March 20, 1968, U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a landmark bill that removed gold backing from U.S. paper money, fundamentally transforming the American monetary system and paving the way for a fiat currency approach.
  • 21 Mar Battle of Karameh: The Israeli Defense Forces launched an attack on the village of Karameh in Jordan, engaging in a significant military confrontation with Jordanian and Palestinian forces.
  • 22 Mar Uprising in South Yemen: An uprising occurred in South Yemen, reflecting the complex political landscape and ongoing struggles for power and independence in the Arabian Peninsula during the late 1960s.
  • 23 Mar Walter Fauntroy: First DC Congressional Delegate: Reverend Walter Fauntroy made history by becoming the first non-voting congressional delegate representing Washington, D.C., a significant milestone in the city's political representation.
  • 24 Mar Tragic Aer Lingus Flight 712 Disaster: On March 24, 1968, Aer Lingus Flight 712, traveling from Cork to London, crashed near Tuskar Rock off the coast of County Wexford, Ireland. The devastating accident resulted in the loss of all 61 passengers and crew members on board. The incident remains one of the most significant aviation tragedies in Irish history, prompting extensive investigations into the cause of the crash.
  • 25 Mar US Nuclear Test at Nevada Test Site: The United States conducts a nuclear weapons test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing Cold War-era nuclear weapons development and testing programs.
  • 26 Mar LBJ Declines Presidential Re-election: In a historic televised address to the nation, President Lyndon B. Johnson shocked the American political landscape by announcing he would not seek re-election. This decision was heavily influenced by the escalating Vietnam War, growing public dissent, and internal Democratic Party tensions.
  • 27 Mar Suharto Becomes President of Indonesia: In a significant political transition, General Suharto officially succeeded Sukarno as the President of Indonesia, marking the end of Sukarno's 'Guided Democracy' era and the beginning of Suharto's 'New Order' regime. This moment represented a major shift in Indonesian political leadership and would shape the country's trajectory for the next three decades.
  • 28 Mar Death of Edson Luís de Lima Souto: Brazilian high school student Edson Luís de Lima Souto was killed by military police during a student protest, marking a pivotal moment in the resistance against Brazil's military dictatorship. His death became a catalyst for widespread public demonstrations and increased opposition to the authoritarian regime.
  • 29 Mar Czechoslovakia Presidential Election Process: The political landscape of Czechoslovakia was evolving, with General Ludvik Svoboda's presidential election process being finalized and discussed, signaling potential political changes in the country.
  • 30 Mar Ludvik Svoboda Elected Czechoslovak President: General Ludvik Svoboda was elected President of Czechoslovakia during a critical period of political reform known as the Prague Spring, marking a significant moment in Czechoslovak political history.
  • 31 Mar LBJ Announces Decision Not to Seek Re-election and Limits on Vietnam War: President Lyndon B. Johnson delivered a televised address announcing a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy and his political future. He declared a halt in bombing North Vietnam and stunned the nation by stating he would not seek re-election, marking a pivotal moment in the Vietnam War and American political landscape.
  • 01 Apr Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.: Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. At 6:01 PM, while preparing to go to dinner, King was shot in the neck by James Earl Ray, who had positioned himself in a nearby boarding house with a clear view of the motel. King was rushed to St. Joseph's Hospital and pronounced dead at 7:05 PM. This tragic event marked a pivotal moment in the American Civil Rights Movement, cutting short the life of one of the most influential civil rights leaders in U.S. history.
  • 02 Apr Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.: Martin Luther King Jr. was fatally shot on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. At 6:01 PM, James Earl Ray fired a single shot from a .30-06 rifle, striking King in the neck. King was rushed to St. Joseph's Hospital and pronounced dead at 7:05 PM. This tragic event marked a pivotal moment in the American Civil Rights Movement.
  • 03 Apr Martin Luther King Jr.'s Final Speech and Impending Assassination: Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his prophetic 'I've Been to the Mountaintop' speech at Mason Temple in Memphis, Tennessee, powerfully advocating for civil rights and social justice. This speech would be his last, as he was tragically assassinated the following day.
  • 04 Apr Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.: Reverend Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent American civil rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize recipient, was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee at the age of 39. His death marked a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement, sparking nationwide protests and highlighting the ongoing racial tensions in the United States.
  • 05 Apr Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a pivotal civil rights leader, was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee, marking a tragic moment in the American civil rights movement. His death sparked nationwide protests and mourning, highlighting the deep racial tensions of the era.
  • 06 Apr Baltimore Riots of 1968: Following Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, the Baltimore riot erupted, with crowds filling streets, burning businesses, and confronting law enforcement and national guard, reflecting the intense social unrest of the era.
  • 07 Apr National Day of Mourning for Martin Luther King Jr.: The United States observed a national day of mourning for Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., following his assassination. During this somber day, cultural figures like Nina Simone paid tribute to Dr. King. Musician Gene Taylor composed and performed the song 'Why? (the King of Love Is Dead)' at the Westbury Music Fair, commemorating the civil rights leader's legacy.
  • 08 Apr Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.: American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated as he stood on a balcony at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. This tragic event marked a pivotal moment in the American civil rights movement, shocking the nation and leading to widespread mourning and social unrest.
  • 09 Apr Martin Luther King Jr. Laid to Rest in Atlanta: The funeral and burial of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. took place in Atlanta, Georgia, following his tragic assassination. Thousands mourned the loss of this pivotal figure in the American civil rights movement.
  • 10 Apr Civil Rights Act of 1968 Signed: U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson signs the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1968, a critical piece of legislation that prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, religion, national origin, and sex. This act was a significant expansion of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, further advancing racial equality and fair housing practices in the United States.
  • 11 Apr Civil Rights Act of 1968 Signed: President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1968, a landmark legislation prohibiting discrimination in housing sales, rentals, and financing. This act was particularly significant as it was signed just a week after the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., representing a crucial moment in the ongoing struggle for racial equality in the United States.
  • 12 Apr Duke University Silent Vigil for Martin Luther King Jr.: Students at Duke University conducted a peaceful protest known as the Silent Vigil from April 5-11, 1968, in response to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This landmark demonstration represented a significant moment of racial solidarity and social consciousness at a predominantly white university.
  • 14 Apr Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.: Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. His tragic murder sparked widespread riots in over 100 cities across the United States, marking a pivotal and traumatic moment in the American civil rights movement.
  • 15 Apr UK Music Chart Highlight: On April 15, 1968, the UK music charts were topped by Louis Armstrong's double-sided hit 'What A Wonderful World / Cabaret', showcasing the legendary musician's versatility and cultural impact.
  • 16 Apr Death of Albert Betz, Wind Energy Pioneer: Albert Betz, a renowned German physicist and aerospace engineering pioneer, passed away at the age of 82. He was instrumental in developing foundational theories of wind turbine technology, significantly contributing to the early understanding of wind energy conversion. Betz's most famous contribution was the 'Betz limit', which mathematically defines the maximum possible energy extraction from wind by a turbine, a principle still fundamental to modern wind energy engineering.
  • 17 Apr FBI Identifies Suspect in Martin Luther King Jr. Assassination: The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified a suspect in the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., filing a request for an arrest warrant and publicly releasing a detailed description of the suspect. This marked a critical moment in the investigation of one of the most significant and tragic events in American civil rights history.
  • 18 Apr London Bridge Sold to American Buyer: The historic London Bridge was sold to an American oil company, with plans to dismantle and reconstruct it in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.
  • 19 Apr Boston Marathon Victory by Amby Burfoot: Amby Burfoot of Connecticut won the 72nd Boston Marathon with a time of 2:22:17, marking the first time an American had won the prestigious race since 1957.
  • 20 Apr Enoch Powell's Controversial 'Rivers of Blood' Speech: British politician Enoch Powell delivers his infamous 'Rivers of Blood' speech, a highly controversial address criticizing immigration and warning of potential racial tensions in the United Kingdom. The speech would become a pivotal moment in British political discourse on race and immigration.
  • 21 Apr 22nd Tony Awards Highlights: The 22nd Tony Awards celebrated outstanding achievements in Broadway theater, with notable wins for 'Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead' and 'Hallelujah, Baby!'
  • 22 Apr Jo Angel - Australian Cricket Fast Bowler: Jo Angel was a prominent right-arm fast bowler from Western Australia who played for the Australian national cricket team between 1993 and the early 2000s, contributing to the country's strong cricket legacy.
  • 23 Apr Columbia University Student Protests: During the height of the Vietnam War, student protesters at Columbia University in New York City took over administration buildings and effectively shut down the university, highlighting the growing anti-war sentiment among American students.
  • 24 Apr Columbia University Student Protest: Leftist students take over Columbia University in New York City, marking a significant moment of student activism during the tumultuous late 1960s.
  • 25 Apr Half a Sixpence opens at Broadhurst Theater NYC for 512 performances
  • 26 Apr US Underground Nuclear Test: Operation Crosstie Boxcar: The United States conducted an underground nuclear test of the 'Boxcar' device at the Nevada Test Site, with a yield of 1 megaton. This test was part of Operation Crosstie, a significant nuclear weapons testing program during the Cold War era.
  • 27 Apr Robert F. Kennedy's Nebraska Campaign Tour: During his presidential campaign, Robert F. Kennedy conducted an extensive 11-stop whistle-stop tour through Nebraska, drawing an impressive crowd of approximately 31,000 people. The tour began in Cheyenne, Wyoming at 7:15 a.m. and concluded in Omaha at 7:40 p.m., showcasing Kennedy's grassroots political engagement.
  • 28 Apr Broadway Musical 'Hair' Opens: The groundbreaking rock musical 'Hair' premiered at the Biltmore Theater in New York City, marking a significant cultural moment of the 1960s. The production would run for 1,750 performances, becoming a landmark of counterculture theater.
  • 29 Apr Death of Frankie Lymon: Frankie Lymon, pioneering rock and R&B singer known for his work with the Teenagers, tragically died of a drug overdose at the young age of 25, marking a significant loss for the music industry.
  • 30 Apr Columbia University Student Protests: Student protesters at Columbia University in New York City staged a significant demonstration, taking over administration buildings and effectively shutting down the university. This protest was part of the broader anti-Vietnam War and civil rights movements of the late 1960s, reflecting growing student activism and social unrest.
  • 01 May Staff Sergeant Roy Benavidez's Heroic Vietnam Rescue: During the Vietnam War, Staff Sergeant Roy Benavidez of the U.S. Army's 5th Special Forces Group performed an extraordinary act of heroism near Loc Ninh. He single-handedly rescued 8 survivors from a 12-man Special Forces team that was surrounded by approximately 1,000 enemy troops, demonstrating exceptional courage under extreme combat conditions.
  • 02 May Staff Sergeant Roy Benavidez's Heroic Rescue in Vietnam: Staff Sergeant Roy Benavidez of the U.S. Army's 5th Special Forces Group performed an extraordinary act of heroism near Loc Ninh in South Vietnam. Despite being off duty, he volunteered for a dangerous rescue mission involving a 12-man Special Forces team surrounded by 1,000 enemy troops. During an intense 8-hour battle, Benavidez was wounded four times while rescuing 8 survivors, administering first aid, calling in airstrikes, securing classified documents, and dragging wounded men to safety.
  • 03 May Sorbonne Student Protests Begin: A pivotal moment in the May 1968 French student movement occurred when 500 students at the Sorbonne in Paris protested against the closure of Paris University at Nanterre and potential student expulsions. Police intervention led to the first significant riot of the 'Mai 68' period, sparking widespread university closures and social unrest across France.
  • 04 May Controversial Kentucky Derby Disqualification: Dancer's Image was disqualified from the 94th Kentucky Derby due to a positive drug test, creating a major controversy in the horse racing world and sparking significant debate about race regulations.
  • 05 May Journalists Murdered in Saigon During Vietnam War: During the Vietnam War, four international journalists were brutally executed by Viet Cong guerrillas in Saigon's Cholon sector. The victims included Reuters reporters Ron Lamary (England) and Bruce Pigott, Michael Birch from Australian Associated Press, and John Cantwell, a Time magazine correspondent from Australia. Remarkably, freelance journalist Frank Palmos survived by feigning death, later providing a firsthand account of the tragic incident.
  • 06 May Detailed Account of Paris Student Demonstrations: On May 6, 1968, over 20,000 students, teachers, and supporters marched toward the Sorbonne University, which was barricaded by police. The demonstration quickly turned violent when police charged with batons, prompting protesters to build barricades and throw paving stones. Police retaliated with tear gas and mass arrests, detaining hundreds of students.
  • 07 May May 1968 Paris Student Protests: A significant social movement erupted in Paris, with students and workers launching widespread protests against traditional societal structures, government policies, and capitalist systems. These protests challenged the conservative governance of President Charles de Gaulle and represented a pivotal moment of youth-led social rebellion in 20th-century France.
  • 08 May Communist Leaders Convene in Moscow: Communist Party leaders from five Eastern European nations gathered in Moscow to strategize and discuss potential responses to the ongoing liberal reforms sweeping through the region, highlighting the political tensions of the Cold War era.
  • 09 May Assassination of William Deng Nhial: William Deng Nhial, a prominent opposition leader and president of the Sudan African National Union (SANU), was assassinated shortly after his party gained five seats in parliamentary elections. This event highlighted the volatile political landscape and ongoing tensions in Sudan during this period.
  • 10 May Paris Peace Talks: US and North Vietnam Negotiate Vietnam War Resolution: Historic diplomatic negotiations commence in Paris between the United States and North Vietnamese representatives to explore potential pathways to end the prolonged and devastating Vietnam War. These talks mark a critical diplomatic effort to de-escalate the conflict and seek a peaceful resolution.
  • 11 May Night of the Barricades in Paris: A pivotal moment in the 1968 French student protests, the Night of the Barricades was a violent confrontation between students and police in Paris's Latin Quarter. Students erected barricades and were met with aggressive police tactics, including tear gas and physical violence. The event resulted in nearly 500 student arrests, over 250 injured police officers, and significant damage to the Latin Quarter. Importantly, the brutal police response increased public sympathy for the student movement.
  • 12 May March of the Poor Reaches Washington DC: The 'March of Poor' led by Reverend Ralph Abernathy arrived in Washington DC, continuing the civil rights movement's efforts to highlight economic inequality and advocate for social justice.
  • 13 May Mass Protest Against French Government Leadership: On May 13, 1968, approximately one million French citizens took to the streets in a massive demonstration against President Charles de Gaulle and Prime Minister Georges Pompidou. This protest was part of the broader May 1968 events, which represented a significant social and political upheaval in France, challenging the established political and social order.
  • 14 May Prague Spring: Dubček's Liberalization Reforms: The Czechoslovakian government, under Alexander Dubček, announces significant liberalizing reforms aimed at creating 'socialism with a human face', marking a pivotal moment in challenging Soviet control during the Cold War.
  • 15 May Deadly Tornado Strikes Jonesboro, Arkansas: A devastating tornado hit Jonesboro, Arkansas, USA at 10 PM, resulting in 36 fatalities and significant destruction. This event was part of a larger tornado outbreak affecting multiple states in the central and southern United States.
  • 16 May Ronan Point Tower Block Disaster: A catastrophic structural failure occurred at the Ronan Point 23-storey tower block in Canning Town, east London, when a gas explosion triggered a partial collapse of the building. The incident resulted in five fatalities and became a landmark case in building safety and construction regulations.
  • 17 May Catonsville Nine Vietnam War Protest: A group of Catholic anti-war activists known as the Catonsville Nine entered a Selective Service office in Maryland, seized draft records, and publicly burned them with napalm as a powerful protest against the Vietnam War. This act of civil disobedience drew national attention to the anti-war movement.
  • 18 May 94th Preakness Stakes: The 94th Preakness Stakes horse race was won by jockey Ismael Valenzuela riding Forward Pass, completing the race in a time of 1:56.8. This significant horse racing event took place at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland.
  • 19 May Nigerian Military Action in Port Harcourt: Nigerian military forces successfully capture the strategic city of Port Harcourt during a military operation.
  • 20 May Failed Coup Attempt Against Papa Doc Duvalier in Haiti: On May 20, 1968, a significant but unsuccessful attempt was made to overthrow the oppressive regime of François 'Papa Doc' Duvalier. The coup was financed by a group of wealthy Haitian exiles who sought to end Duvalier's brutal dictatorship. The poorly executed operation highlighted the ongoing political tensions and resistance against the Duvalier regime.
  • 21 May USS Scorpion Submarine Tragedy: The nuclear-powered submarine USS Scorpion, carrying 99 crew members, is reported missing and later discovered at the bottom of the ocean near the Azores, marking a significant maritime disaster during the Cold War era.
  • 22 May Apollo 7 Mission Milestone: On May 22, 1968, the prime crew of Apollo 7 conducted a crucial mission that represented a pivotal moment in the United States' space exploration program, helping to restore confidence after the Apollo 1 tragedy and paving the way for future lunar missions.
  • 23 May Echo 1 Communications Satellite Deorbits: Echo 1, the world's first communications satellite launched in 1960, completed its mission by falling out of orbit and burning up upon atmospheric re-entry. This marked the end of an important early milestone in satellite communications technology.
  • 24 May French May 1968 Political Crisis Escalates: French president Charles de Gaulle proposes a referendum amid growing student protests, with demonstrators setting fire to the Paris Stock Exchange (Bourse), signaling intense social and political unrest.
  • 25 May French Political Unrest: French president Charles de Gaulle proposed a referendum amid significant student protests, with students setting fire to the Paris Bourse. This event was part of the broader May 1968 protests in France, which challenged traditional political and social structures.
  • 26 May Iceland's Historic Traffic Transition: On H-dagurinn (the 'H-Day'), Iceland made a significant nationwide transportation change by switching from left-hand to right-hand traffic driving, a complex logistical operation that occurred overnight.
  • 27 May Supreme Court Draft Card Burning Ruling: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 7-1 that burning a draft card is not an act of free speech protected by the First Amendment, a significant legal decision during the Vietnam War era.
  • 28 May McCarthy Wins Oregon Democratic Primary: U.S. Senator Eugene McCarthy wins the Democratic primary in Oregon, challenging the political establishment during a tumultuous period of the Vietnam War era.
  • 29 May Manchester United Wins European Championship: Manchester United makes history by becoming the first English team to win the European Cup (now UEFA Champions League), defeating Benfica of Portugal 4-1 in an exciting match at Wembley Stadium after extra time.
  • 30 May Charles de Gaulle Turns Tide in May 1968 French Crisis: Charles de Gaulle dramatically reappears after fleeing to Baden-Baden, Germany, and strategically dissolves the French National Assembly through a radio broadcast. In a powerful show of political support, nearly one million of his supporters subsequently march along the Champs-Élysées in Paris, marking a critical turning point in the May 1968 political upheaval.
  • 31 May Manchester United Wins European Cup: In a historic match at Wembley Stadium in London, Manchester United defeats Benfica 4-1 in the European Cup Final. Bobby Charlton's two goals help the team become the first English club to win the prestigious European championship, marking a significant milestone in British football history.
  • 01 Jun Helen Keller Passes Away: Helen Keller, a pioneering American political activist, author, and lecturer, died at the age of 87. She was a remarkable figure who became the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree, breaking significant barriers for people with disabilities and becoming a global symbol of perseverance and human potential.
  • 02 Jun Yugoslav Student Demonstrations: Student demonstrations erupted in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, signaling potential political unrest and social tensions within the country during a period of significant political transformation.
  • 03 Jun Poor People's March on Washington: A pivotal civil rights demonstration organized by Martin Luther King Jr.'s Southern Christian Leadership Conference, aimed at highlighting economic inequality and demanding economic and human rights for impoverished Americans.
  • 04 Jun Robert F. Kennedy Wins California Primary and is Assassinated: Robert F. Kennedy wins the California primary, gaining significant momentum in his presidential campaign. Later that same night, he is tragically assassinated at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, marking a pivotal and devastating moment in American political history.
  • 05 Jun Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy: U.S. Senator and presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy was fatally shot by Sirhan Sirhan at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, California. The assassination occurred shortly after Kennedy's victory speech in the California Democratic primary. Sirhan shot Kennedy multiple times, also wounding five other people. Kennedy was rushed to the hospital and died the following day, marking a tragic moment in American political history.
  • 06 Jun Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy: Robert F. Kennedy was fatally shot by Sirhan B. Sirhan, a Palestinian resident of Los Angeles, after delivering a speech at the Ambassador Hotel. The assassination occurred during Kennedy's presidential campaign, shocking the nation and marking a tragic moment in American political history.
  • 07 Jun Robert F. Kennedy's Body Lies in State: The body of assassinated U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy lies in state at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City, marking a somber moment in American political history following his tragic assassination.
  • 08 Jun James Earl Ray Arrested for MLK Assassination: James Earl Ray was arrested at Heathrow Airport in London for the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4, 1968. He was extradited to the United States and later pleaded guilty but recanted his plea before his death in prison.
  • 09 Jun National Day of Mourning for Robert F. Kennedy: U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson officially declared a national day of mourning following the tragic assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy, marking a somber moment in American political history.
  • 10 Jun General Abrams Takes Command in Vietnam: U.S. Army General Creighton Abrams assumes command of military operations in the Vietnam War, succeeding General William Westmoreland. Abrams shifts strategy from Westmoreland's 'search and destroy' approach to a focus on pacification.
  • 11 Jun Breakthrough in Cell Surface Antigen Research: Dr. Lloyd J. Old made a groundbreaking discovery by identifying the first cell surface antigens capable of distinguishing between different cell types. This pivotal research laid the foundation for understanding cellular differentiation and would later become crucial in immunology, cancer research, and diagnostic techniques.
  • 12 Jun UN Approves Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty: The United Nations General Assembly voted to approve the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, with a significant majority of 95 member nations supporting the resolution. This landmark treaty aimed to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote global disarmament, marking a critical moment in international diplomacy during the Cold War era.
  • 13 Jun Earl Warren's Supreme Court Resignation Announcement: U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice Earl Warren announced his intention to resign, marking a significant moment in the American judicial leadership transition.
  • 14 Jun Off duty Dutch military permitted to wear regular clothing
  • 15 Jun Beatles Members Disavow Maharishi: John Lennon and Paul McCartney publicly announce their involvement with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi was a mistake during a press conference in New York City.
  • 16 Jun French Police Clear Sorbonne During Student Protests: On June 16, 1968, French police forcibly evicted student rebels who had occupied the historic Sorbonne University in Paris. Riot police used tear gas and concussion grenades to disperse hundreds of students in the Quartier Latin. While student leaders claimed 500 occupiers were inside, police reported only 136 remained. The evacuation was conducted peacefully, with students filing out after being told they would be searched but not arrested. During the search, police confiscated numerous potential weapons including clubs, pick handles, iron bars, gas masks, helmets, and materials for potential Molotov cocktails. After clearing the building, police removed the rebel banner and reinstated the French national flag.
  • 17 Jun Hot Wheels Toy Cars Introduction: Mattel revolutionized the toy industry by introducing Hot Wheels, a line of die-cast toy cars that would become a cultural phenomenon and beloved collectible for generations of children.
  • 18 Jun Supreme Court Bans Housing Discrimination: The United States Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling prohibiting racial discrimination in the sale and rental of housing, a critical step in advancing civil rights and promoting equal housing opportunities for all Americans.
  • 19 Jun Poor People's Campaign Solidarity Day March: On June 19, 1968, approximately 50,000 participants gathered in Washington, D.C. for the Solidarity Day March, a pivotal moment in the Poor People's Campaign. Led by civil rights leaders, this multiracial demonstration demanded economic justice, fair wages, and an end to poverty in the United States. The march represented a critical continuation of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision of economic equality, bringing together diverse communities to highlight systemic economic disparities.
  • 20 Jun Civil Rights Housing Protest in Northern Ireland: Austin Currie, a Member of Parliament at Stormont in Northern Ireland, led a significant protest by squatting in a house in Caledon to highlight and challenge systemic housing discrimination against Catholics during the civil rights movement.
  • 21 Jun Deadly Student Protest in Rio de Janeiro: A student demonstration in front of the Jornal do Brasil (JB) building in Rio de Janeiro escalated into a violent confrontation. The protest resulted in a tragic outcome with 28 fatalities and over 1,000 arrests, reflecting the intense political tensions and repression during Brazil's military dictatorship period.
  • 22 Jun Top US Song: This Guy's In Love With You: On June 22, 1968, 'This Guy's In Love With You' by Herb Alpert was the number one song in the United States, showcasing the popular soft rock and instrumental music of the late 1960s.
  • 23 Jun Buenos Aires Football Stadium Tragedy: On June 23, 1968, a devastating football stampede occurred at a match between Boca Juniors and Club Atlético River Plate in Buenos Aires, resulting in 74 fatalities and 150 injuries. The catastrophe unfolded when fans rushed towards a closed exit, causing a fatal human crush that would become one of the most tragic incidents in Argentine football history.
  • 24 Jun Republic of Rose Island Declaration: Giorgio Rosa declared the independence of the Republic of Rose Island, an artificial platform off the coast of Rimini, Italy. The micronation was quickly dismantled by Italian authorities, highlighting the challenges of establishing independent territories.
  • 25 Jun Tony Hancock's Tragic End: Renowned English comedian and actor Tony Hancock tragically took his own life at the age of 44, cutting short a brilliant career that had significantly influenced British comedy and entertainment.
  • 26 Jun Iwo Jima and Bonin Islands Returned to Japan: The United States officially returned the Iwo Jima and Bonin Islands to Japan, marking a significant post-World War II territorial transfer and symbolizing the evolving diplomatic relations between the two nations.
  • 27 Jun Manifest of 2000 Words Published in Prague: On June 27, 1968, Czech writer and journalist Ludvík Vaculík published the influential 'Manifest of 2000 Words' (Manifest dvou tisíc slov) during the Prague Spring period. This powerful document was a critical critique of the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia, calling for democratic reforms, freedom of expression, and political liberalization. The manifesto became a significant symbol of resistance against Soviet-style totalitarian control and represented the intellectual movement seeking greater political openness.
  • 28 Jun Daniel Ellsberg Pentagon Papers Indictment: Daniel Ellsberg was formally indicted for leaking the classified Pentagon Papers, a pivotal moment in American political history that exposed secret government documents about the Vietnam War and challenged government transparency.
  • 30 Jun Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty: The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty opens for signature, marking a critical international effort to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote peaceful nuclear technology.
  • 01 Jul Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Signed: The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons is signed in Washington, D.C., London, and Moscow by sixty-two countries, marking a significant global effort to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and reduce nuclear tensions during the Cold War.
  • 02 Jul El Al Airliner Hijacked by PFLP: An El Al Israeli passenger aircraft was hijacked by three armed members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) and forcibly diverted to Algeria. This incident was part of the escalating tensions in the Middle East during the late 1960s, highlighting the growing political instability and terrorist activities targeting Israeli interests.
  • 03 Jul Brian Jones Tragic Death: On July 3, 1968, British musician Brian Jones, a founding member of the Rolling Stones, was found dead in the swimming pool of his Sussex home. Just weeks after being dismissed from the band, Jones' mysterious death at the age of 27 occurred during the height of the 1960s rock music era, adding to the legendary and often tragic narrative of rock musicians of that time.
  • 04 Jul Alec Rose Completes Solo Round-the-World Yacht Voyage: British yachtsman Alec Rose, aged 59, completed an extraordinary solo circumnavigation of the globe, sailing his ketch Lively Lady into Portsmouth harbour after an epic 354-day journey. He was greeted by an incredible crowd of 200,000 spectators and escorted by a flotilla of 300 boats, marking a remarkable achievement in maritime exploration.
  • 05 Jul Prague Manifest of 1000 Words: The 'Manifest of 1000 Words' was published in Prague, a significant document during the period of political and cultural ferment in Czechoslovakia leading up to the Prague Spring.
  • 06 Jul FBI Outlines COINTELPRO Practices: The FBI sent a memorandum to its field offices detailing 11 approved COINTELPRO (Counter Intelligence Program) practices designed to disrupt and surveil American anti-government organizations, particularly those associated with the 'New Left' political movement.
  • 07 Jul The Yardbirds Disband: The influential British rock group The Yardbirds officially disbanded on this date, marking a significant moment in rock music history. Guitarist Jimmy Page would soon recruit new members to form the legendary band Led Zeppelin, effectively transforming the musical landscape of the late 1960s.
  • 08 Jul Israeli-Egyptian Artillery Confrontation: An artillery exchange occurred between Israeli and Egyptian forces along the Suez Canal, reflecting the ongoing tensions in the Middle East during the late 1960s. This incident was part of the broader Arab-Israeli conflict that characterized the region during this period.
  • 09 Jul MLB Division Split Announcement: Major League Baseball announces its plan to split into two divisions for the 1969 season, a transformative decision that would reshape the structure of professional baseball in the United States.
  • 10 Jul Leadership Change in France: Maurice Couve de Murville assumes the role of Prime Minister of France, marking a significant political transition during the late 1960s. Couve de Murville, a prominent Gaullist politician, was known for his diplomatic experience and close association with President Charles de Gaulle's administration.
  • 11 Jul Earl Weaver Becomes Orioles Manager: Earl Weaver replaces Hank Bauer as the manager of the Baltimore Orioles. This managerial change would prove pivotal, as Weaver would go on to become one of the most successful managers in baseball history, leading the Orioles to multiple World Series appearances and a championship.
  • 12 Jul Soviet Nuclear Test at Semipalatinsk: On July 12, 1968, the Soviet Union conducted a nuclear weapons test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site located in northeast Kazakhstan, continuing the ongoing nuclear arms race during the Cold War period.
  • 13 Jul H3N2 Influenza Pandemic Begins: The first diagnosis of influenza A virus subtype H3N2 was recorded in Hong Kong, marking the start of a significant global pandemic that would have far-reaching health implications worldwide.
  • 14 Jul Hank Aaron Reaches 500 Home Run Milestone: Baseball legend Hank Aaron hit his historic 500th home run at Milwaukee County Stadium, achieving this remarkable milestone against San Francisco Giants pitcher Mike McCormick. This achievement solidified Aaron's status as one of the most exceptional power hitters in Major League Baseball history.
  • 15 Jul First US-USSR Commercial Air Travel: Historic first commercial air service launches between the United States and the Soviet Union, with an Aeroflot Ilyushin Il-62 landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, symbolizing a breakthrough in Cold War-era transportation diplomacy.
  • 16 Jul Warsaw Pact Ultimatum to Czechoslovakia during Prague Spring: On July 16, 1968, Communist Party leaders from five Warsaw Pact nations delivered a critical letter to Alexander Dubcek and the Czechoslovak Communist Party Presidium. The letter issued a two-week ultimatum demanding that Czechoslovakia halt its democratic reforms, specifically requiring the leadership to: 1) Outlaw political opposition groups, 2) Reinstate media censorship, and 3) Recommit to strict Marxist-Leninist principles of democratic centralism modeled after Soviet governance. This communication was a significant prelude to the eventual Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia later that year.
  • 17 Jul Ba'ath Party Seizes Power in Iraq: On July 17, 1968, a significant political transformation occurred in Iraq when a bloodless coup led by General Ahmed Hassan al-Bakr overthrew President Abdul Rahman Arif. The Ba'ath Party successfully installed itself as the governing power, with al-Bakr becoming the new President of Iraq. This event marked a crucial turning point in Iraqi political history, setting the stage for the eventual rise of Saddam Hussein and decades of Ba'athist rule.
  • 18 Jul Intel Corporation Founded: Intel Corporation is established in Mountain View, California, marking a pivotal moment in the history of semiconductor technology and computing. The company, co-founded by Gordon Moore and Robert Noyce, would go on to become a global leader in microprocessor design and manufacturing.
  • 19 Jul Black Power Salute at 1968 Olympics: During the medal ceremony for the men's 200-meter sprint at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City, African-American athletes Tommie Smith (gold medalist) and John Carlos (bronze medalist) made a powerful political statement by raising their black-gloved fists during the national anthem. This iconic moment of silent protest symbolized the civil rights movement and drew global attention to racial inequality in the United States. Their gesture was a bold, non-violent demonstration against systemic racism and social injustice, which resulted in their immediate suspension from the U.S. Olympic team and significant personal and professional consequences.
  • 20 Jul Special Olympics Founded: The Special Olympics organization was established, aiming to provide sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities, promoting inclusivity and empowerment.
  • 21 Jul Jan Janssen Wins Tour de France: Jan Janssen becomes the first Dutch cyclist to win the prestigious Tour de France, marking a significant milestone in Dutch cycling history. His victory represents a breakthrough for the Netherlands in one of the world's most challenging and renowned cycling competitions.
  • 23 Jul First Palestinian Liberation Organization Aircraft Hijacking: A significant moment in the history of Palestinian resistance and international terrorism, this hijacking of an El Al aircraft marked an escalation in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Three members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine seized a Boeing 707 en route from Rome to Lod, Israel, carrying 10 crew and 38 passengers.
  • 24 Jul Kitchen Debate: A famous impromptu debate between U.S. Vice President Richard Nixon and Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev at the American National Exhibition in Moscow, symbolizing the ideological tensions of the Cold War through a discussion about consumer goods and political systems.
  • 25 Jul Pope Paul VI Encyclical on Birth Regulation: Pope Paul VI published an official papal encyclical addressing birth control, maintaining the Roman Catholic Church's traditional stance against artificial methods of contraception and reaffirming the church's position on reproductive ethics.
  • 26 Jul Vietnam War: Opposition Leader Sentenced for Peace Advocacy: On July 26, 1968, Truong Dinh Dzu, a prominent South Vietnamese opposition leader, was sentenced to five years of hard labor for proposing a coalition government as a potential path to ending the Vietnam War. Dzu, who had previously contested the 1967 Presidential elections, was prosecuted under a 1965 decree targeting individuals perceived as interfering with the government's anti-communist efforts. His advocacy for a negotiated political solution was seen as a threat by the South Vietnamese authorities, highlighting the intense political repression during the conflict.
  • 27 Jul Race Riot in Gary, Indiana: A significant racial disturbance occurred in Gary, Indiana, reflecting the ongoing racial tensions and social unrest in the United States during the late 1960s. The riot highlighted the deep-seated racial inequalities and social challenges in urban areas during this tumultuous period of American history.
  • 28 Jul Death of Otto Hahn, Nobel Prize Chemist: Otto Hahn, a renowned German chemist and Nobel Prize laureate, passed away. He is best known for his groundbreaking work in nuclear chemistry and for discovering nuclear fission, which was crucial to understanding atomic science.
  • 29 Jul Arenal Volcano Catastrophic Eruption: Mount Arenal in Costa Rica experiences a devastating volcanic eruption, killing approximately 80 people and causing massive destruction in the surrounding region. This Pelee-type eruption buried three small villages and marked a significant geological event in Costa Rican history.
  • 30 Jul Thames Television Launches in London: Thames Television, a significant British commercial television broadcaster, commenced its transmission in London, marking a pivotal moment in UK media history. The network would go on to produce numerous iconic television programs and become a major player in British broadcasting during the late 20th century.
  • 31 Jul The Beatles Close Apple Boutique: On July 31, 1968, the Beatles made a unique business decision by closing their Apple Boutique in London. In an unconventional move, they chose to give away their entire remaining clothing inventory to the public for free. This event symbolized the band's experimental and somewhat idealistic approach to business during their later years, reflecting the counterculture spirit of the late 1960s.
  • 01 Aug Venezuelan Dictator Sentenced: A court in Caracas sentences former Venezuelan dictator Marcos Perez Jimenez to four years, one month, and fifteen days of imprisonment, representing a legal reckoning for past authoritarian rule.
  • 02 Aug Devastating Casiguran Earthquake in the Philippines: A powerful earthquake struck Casiguran, Aurora, Philippines, causing significant loss of life with over 270 fatalities and injuring 261 people. This seismic event was one of the most destructive natural disasters in the region's history during the late 1960s.
  • 03 Aug Bratislava Declaration of Communist Parties: Leaders of Communist parties from Czechoslovakia and neighboring countries signed the Bratislava Declaration, a significant political agreement during the Cold War era that demonstrated Soviet influence in Eastern Europe.
  • 04 Aug Iraqi Amnesty for Kurdish Population: Iraqi leader General Ahmed Hassan al-Bakr announced a comprehensive amnesty for the Kurdish population, including army and police deserters, potentially signaling a diplomatic effort to ease tensions with the Kurdish minority.
  • 05 Aug Republican National Convention Nominates Nixon and Agnew: During the Republican National Convention held in Miami Beach, Florida, the party officially nominated Richard Nixon for President and Spiro Agnew for Vice President, setting the stage for the 1968 presidential election.
  • 08 Aug Nixon Nominated at Republican Convention: At the Republican National Convention in Miami Beach, Richard Nixon is officially nominated as the party's presidential candidate, setting the stage for a pivotal election year.
  • 09 Aug British Eagle Flight 802 Tragedy: A devastating aviation disaster occurred when British Eagle Flight 802 crashed in Langenbruck, West Germany, resulting in the loss of all 48 people on board. The crash was attributed to a catastrophic combination of electrical power failure, extreme structural stress, and subsequent aircraft disintegration, highlighting critical aviation safety concerns of the era.
  • 10 Aug Soviet Union Proposes Missile Limitation Talks: The Soviet Union's Politburo voted to initiate discussions with the United States regarding the limitation and reduction of offensive and defensive antiballistic missiles (ABMs), signaling a potential diplomatic breakthrough during the Cold War era.
  • 11 Aug The Beatles Launch Apple Records: The Beatles officially launched Apple Records, their own record label, which would become a significant platform for the band's musical ventures and for signing other innovative artists.
  • 13 Aug Assassination Attempt on Greek Dictator Georgios Papadopoulos: On August 13, 1968, Greek resistance fighter Alexandros Panagoulis made a bold attempt to assassinate Colonel Georgios Papadopoulos, the military dictator who had seized power in Greece during the 1967 coup. Panagoulis planted a bomb along the route in Varkiza, near Athens, intending to eliminate the authoritarian leader who had suspended civil liberties and established a repressive regime. Although the attempt failed to kill Papadopoulos, it became a significant act of resistance against the military junta.
  • 14 Aug Los Angeles Airways Helicopter Crash: A tragic aviation disaster occurred when a Sikorsky S61 helicopter catastrophically broke apart mid-flight, resulting in the complete loss of all 21 passengers and crew members. The incident highlighted significant safety concerns in commercial helicopter transportation during the late 1960s.
  • 15 Aug Soviet Nuclear Test at Sary Shagan: The Soviet Union conducted a nuclear weapons test at the Sary Shagan testing range in Kazakhstan, continuing its strategic nuclear weapons development during the Cold War arms race.
  • 17 Aug Dr. X Wins NWA Championship: On August 17, 1968, professional wrestler Dick Beyer, known by his masked persona Dr. X, defeated Verne Gagne to capture the prestigious National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) World Heavyweight Championship. This significant wrestling event marked a pivotal moment in Beyer's career, showcasing his skill and determination in the competitive world of professional wrestling.
  • 18 Aug Genghis Khan Death Anniversary: Remembrance of Genghis Khan, the legendary Mongol leader who founded the Mongol Empire, one of the largest contiguous empires in world history. His death in 1227 marked the end of a transformative era in global geopolitics and military conquest.
  • 20 Aug Warsaw Pact Invasion of Czechoslovakia: On August 20, 1968, approximately 200,000 Warsaw Pact troops and 5,000 tanks invaded Czechoslovakia to suppress the 'Prague Spring' - a period of political liberalization and democratic reforms that threatened Soviet control. The invasion was a decisive Cold War moment, demonstrating the Soviet Union's commitment to maintaining strict communist control over its satellite states.
  • 21 Aug Warsaw Pact Invasion of Czechoslovakia: Soviet-led Warsaw Pact troops invaded Czechoslovakia on August 21, 1968, effectively ending the Prague Spring reform movement. This military intervention crushed the liberalization efforts in Czechoslovakia and reasserted Soviet control over the country, marking a significant moment in Cold War tensions.
  • 22 Aug Chicago Democratic Convention Protests: Violent clashes erupt between Chicago police and anti-war protesters outside the 1968 Democratic National Convention, where Hubert Humphrey is nominated for President and Edmund Muskie for Vice President, symbolizing the deep social and political tensions of the era.
  • 23 Aug Black Soldiers' Protest at Fort Hood: On the evening of August 23, 1968, forty-three African American soldiers conducted a peaceful, organized sit-in at the intersection of 65th Street and Central Avenue at Fort Hood (now Fort Cavazos). Their protest was against being deployed to Chicago for riot control duties during the Democratic National Convention, representing a significant moment of civil rights resistance within the military.
  • 24 Aug France Develops Hydrogen Bomb: On August 24, 1968, France successfully detonated its first hydrogen bomb at the Mururoa Atoll in the South Pacific, officially becoming the world's fifth nuclear power. This milestone marked a significant moment in France's technological and geopolitical capabilities during the Cold War era, demonstrating the nation's advanced nuclear weapons technology and strategic positioning among global superpowers.
  • 25 Aug Beatles Release 'Hey Jude': The Beatles release their iconic single 'Hey Jude', a landmark song that would become one of the most popular and longest-running number-one hits in music history.
  • 26 Aug 1968 Democratic National Convention Begins: The Democratic National Convention opened in Chicago, Illinois, during a tumultuous year marked by political unrest, civil rights movements, and opposition to the Vietnam War. This convention would become historically significant due to the intense protests and political tensions surrounding the event.
  • 27 Aug Chicago Democratic Convention Protests: During the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, intense clashes erupted between police and anti-war demonstrators. Law enforcement used aggressive tactics, including tear gas, to disperse protesters, creating a volatile and historically significant confrontation that symbolized the deep social and political tensions of the late 1960s.
  • 28 Aug The Democratic National Convention in Chicago is disrupted by protests and police violence.
  • 29 Aug 1968 Democratic National Convention Concludes Amid Chaos: The 1968 Democratic National Convention, held at the International Amphitheatre in Chicago, Illinois, concluded on August 29, 1968. The event was dramatically marked by intense anti-Vietnam War protests and violent confrontations between police and demonstrators, which were broadcast live on television, shocking viewers worldwide and symbolizing the deep social and political divisions in the United States during that turbulent period.
  • 30 Aug The Beatles Release "Hey Jude" on Apple Records: The Beatles released their iconic single "Hey Jude" under the newly established Apple Records label, marking a significant moment in the band's musical and business history. This release represented the first record on the Beatles' own record label, symbolizing their creative and entrepreneurial independence.
  • 31 Aug Devastating Iran Earthquake: A catastrophic 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck northeast Iran, resulting in approximately 6,000 fatalities and destroying around 60,000 buildings. This seismic event was one of the most significant natural disasters in Iran's modern history.
  • 01 Sep Birth of Mohammed Atta, 9/11 Terrorist: Mohammed Atta was born, who would later become one of the primary hijackers involved in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States. He was a key leader of the Al-Qaeda terrorist cell responsible for planning and executing the devastating attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon.
  • 02 Sep Devastating Ferdows Earthquake: A catastrophic earthquake struck Ferdows in Persia (modern-day Iran), resulting in approximately 2,000 fatalities. The seismic event caused widespread destruction and significant loss of life in the region.
  • 03 Sep Raymond Coulthard Born: Raymond Coulthard, a notable English actor, was born on September 3, 1968. He would later become known for his work in television, film, and stage productions, contributing to the British entertainment industry.
  • 04 Sep Nigerian Troops Capture Aba During Biafran War: During the Nigerian Civil War, Nigerian federal troops successfully captured the strategic town of Aba in Biafra on September 4, 1968. This military operation was part of the broader conflict aimed at suppressing the Biafran secession and maintaining Nigeria's territorial integrity.
  • 05 Sep Pan Am Flight Hijacking Tragedy in Karachi: A devastating hijacking incident resulted in the deaths of 21 passengers aboard a Pan Am jet in Karachi, Pakistan, highlighting the escalating global terrorism challenges of the late 1960s.
  • 06 Sep Swaziland Independence Day: Swaziland officially gains independence from British colonial rule, marking a significant milestone in the nation's history. This momentous event transforms the country from a British protectorate to a sovereign state, establishing its own governance and national identity.
  • 07 Sep Led Zeppelin's Historic Live Debut: Led Zeppelin, initially billed as The New Yardbirds, made their first live performance at the Egegard School 'Teen Club' in Gladsaxe, Denmark. The band, consisting of Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham, would go on to become one of the most influential rock bands in history.
  • 08 Sep The Beatles' Last Live TV Performance: The Beatles perform their final live television appearance on the David Frost show, featuring their hit song 'Hey Jude'. This performance marks a significant moment in the band's history, symbolizing their transition from live performances to studio recordings.
  • 09 Sep Arthur Ashe's Historic Grand Slam Win: Arthur Ashe became the first Black man to win a Grand Slam tennis tournament by winning the US Open, breaking racial barriers in professional tennis and marking a pivotal moment in sports history.
  • 10 Sep Guy Ritchie Born: British film director Guy Ritchie was born on September 10, 1968, in Hatfield, England. Known for his stylized crime films like 'Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels' and 'Snatch', he has also directed major Hollywood productions including Sherlock Holmes and live-action Disney films.
  • 11 Sep Albania's Warsaw Pact Withdrawal: In a significant geopolitical move on September 11, 1968, Albania officially withdrew from the Warsaw Pact. This decision came in direct response to the Warsaw Pact's recent invasion of Czechoslovakia, signaling Albania's disagreement with Soviet military interventionism and marking a notable moment of diplomatic defiance during the Cold War era.
  • 12 Sep Albania Withdraws from Warsaw Pact: On September 12, 1968, Albania officially announced its withdrawal from the Warsaw Pact, a collective defense treaty between the Soviet Union and other Eastern European communist states. This decision marked a significant diplomatic break from Soviet influence and demonstrated Albania's increasing political independence during the Cold War era.
  • 13 Sep Albania Leaves Warsaw Pact: During the Cold War, Albania officially withdrew from the Warsaw Pact, a significant political and military alliance led by the Soviet Union. This move signaled Albania's increasing diplomatic independence and growing tensions with Soviet-controlled Eastern Bloc countries.
  • 14 Sep USSR's Zond 5 Lunar Mission: The Soviet Union launched Zond 5, a groundbreaking spacecraft that became the first to successfully circumnavigate the Moon and return to Earth, marking a significant milestone in the Space Race.
  • 15 Sep Soviet Zond 5 Lunar Mission: The Soviet Union launched the Zond 5 spacecraft, marking the first successful lunar fly-around mission with a planned Earth reentry. The spacecraft carried biological specimens including turtles, worms, and plant seeds, which survived the journey and re-entry on September 21.
  • 16 Sep Arthur Ashe Makes Historic U.S. Open Victory: Arthur Ashe becomes the first African American man to win a Grand Slam tennis tournament by winning the U.S. Open, breaking significant racial barriers in professional tennis and marking a pivotal moment in sports history.
  • 17 Sep D'Oliveira Affair: Cricket Tour Cancelled Due to Racial Discrimination: The Marylebone Cricket Club's tour of South Africa was cancelled after South African authorities refused to accept Basil D'Oliveira, a Cape Coloured player, highlighting the deep-rooted racial segregation and discrimination in sports during the apartheid era.
  • 18 Sep Funny Girl Film Premiere: The iconic biopic "Funny Girl" premiered, directed by William Wyler and starring Barbra Streisand and Omar Sharif. The film chronicles the life of comedienne Fanny Brice and would become a significant cultural milestone.
  • 19 Sep Mickey Mantle Hits Historic 535th Home Run: Mickey Mantle of the New York Yankees hit his 535th home run, surpassing baseball legend Jimmie Foxx and further cementing his status as one of the greatest players in Major League Baseball history.
  • 20 Sep Hawaii 5-O Television Premiere: "Hawaii 5-O" debuts on CBS, launching a groundbreaking crime drama series that would become a television landmark. The show would go on to set a record as the longest-running crime show in television history until "Law & Order" surpassed it in 2003, showcasing the enduring appeal of the police procedural genre.
  • 21 Sep Soviet Zond 5 Lunar Mission Returns to Earth: The Soviet Union's Zond 5 unmanned lunar flyby mission successfully returned to Earth, marking a significant milestone in space exploration. This groundbreaking mission was the first to carry a biological payload and complete a circumlunar flight, with two tortoises surviving the six-day journey and landing in the Indian Ocean.
  • 22 Sep Abu Simbel Temples Reopened: The historic Abu Simbel temples in Egypt were reopened to the public, four years after an extraordinary UNESCO-led relocation project to save them from flooding caused by the Aswan High Dam construction.
  • 23 Sep End of Phase III of the Tet Offensive: The Tet Offensive, a major military campaign during the Vietnam War, concluded its third phase. This significant military operation involved coordinated attacks by the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong against South Vietnamese and U.S. forces, marking a critical turning point in the conflict.
  • 24 Sep 60 Minutes Television Debut: The iconic news magazine program '60 Minutes' premieres on CBS-TV, introducing a groundbreaking format of investigative journalism and in-depth reporting that would become a landmark in television news.
  • 26 Sep End of Theatre Censorship in Britain: A significant milestone in British cultural freedom occurs with the official end of theatre censorship, allowing playwrights and theatrical productions greater artistic expression and removing long-standing restrictions on dramatic content.
  • 27 Sep France Blocks UK Entry into European Common Market: In a significant diplomatic moment, France refused the United Kingdom's application to join the European Common Market, reflecting the complex geopolitical tensions of the late 1960s and the challenges of European economic integration.
  • 28 Sep The Beatles' "Hey Jude" Tops Charts: The Beatles' single "Hey Jude" reaches number 1 on the music charts and maintains the top position for an impressive 9 weeks, demonstrating the band's immense popularity during the late 1960s.
  • 29 Sep Greek Military Referendum Expands Junta's Power: A controversial referendum in Greece further consolidated the power of the military junta, marking a significant moment in the country's political suppression during the military dictatorship period.
  • 30 Sep Boeing 747 Public Debut: The Boeing 747 jet airliner was rolled out and publicly unveiled at the Boeing Everett Factory, marking a revolutionary moment in commercial aviation history. This wide-body aircraft would transform long-distance air travel and become an iconic symbol of modern transportation technology.
  • 01 Oct Night of the Living Dead Premieres: On October 1st, 1968, George A. Romero's groundbreaking horror film 'Night of the Living Dead' premiered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This low-budget independent film would revolutionize the zombie genre, introducing social commentary and a new style of horror that challenged racial stereotypes and societal norms of the late 1960s.
  • 02 Oct Tlatelolco Massacre: Student Suppression in Mexico: Mexican President Gustavo Díaz Ordaz ordered soldiers to violently suppress a peaceful student demonstration, escalating tensions just days before the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City.
  • 03 Oct US Nuclear Test in Nevada: The United States conducted a nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing Cold War-era nuclear weapons development and testing programs that were characteristic of the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
  • 05 Oct Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association March in Derry: A pivotal moment in Northern Irish history where police violently suppressed a civil rights march in Derry, which is widely considered the symbolic start of 'The Troubles' - a three-decade-long period of sectarian conflict between Catholics and Protestants in Northern Ireland. The brutal police response to peaceful demonstrators escalated tensions and marked a turning point in the region's political and social landscape.
  • 07 Oct Civil Rights Tensions in Northern Ireland: Ongoing rioting erupts in Derry, Northern Ireland, following a civil rights march that was forcibly dispersed by the Royal Ulster Constabulary two days earlier, highlighting the escalating sectarian tensions in the region.
  • 08 Oct Vietnam War: Operation Sealords Launched: United States and South Vietnamese forces initiated Operation Sealords in the Mekong Delta, a strategic military campaign aimed at disrupting Viet Cong operations and securing critical waterways during the Vietnam War.
  • 09 Oct Marines Return to Khe Sanh Base: American Marines returned to the strategically significant Khe Sanh combat base, 92 days after abandoning it. Major General Raymond Davis characterized the ground operation as symbolizing a major power shift between Allied forces and North Vietnamese troops along the demilitarized zone.
  • 10 Oct Apollo 7 Mission Launch: NASA launches the first manned Apollo mission with astronauts Wally Schirra, Donn Eisele, and Walter Cunningham. This historic flight achieved significant milestones, including the first live television broadcast from space and critical testing of lunar module docking procedures, marking a pivotal moment in the Space Race and human space exploration.
  • 11 Oct Apollo 7 Mission Launch: NASA launches Apollo 7, the first successful crewed Apollo mission. The mission is commanded by Navy Cmdr. Walter Schirra, Jr., and features three astronauts: Wally Schirra, Donn Eisele, and Walter Cunningham. The flight includes 163 orbits in 260 hours and is notable for being the first to feature a live television broadcast from inside an orbiting spaceship.
  • 12 Oct XIX Olympic Games in Mexico City: The 1968 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XIX Olympiad, are held in Mexico City from October 12 to October 27. This historic sporting event brings together athletes from around the world in a landmark international competition.
  • 13 Oct Passing of Bea Benaderet, Television Actress: Bea Benaderet, a prominent American comedian and actress best known for her role in the popular rural sitcom Petticoat Junction, passed away on October 13, 1968. She was a significant figure in early television comedy, known for her distinctive voice and comedic timing.
  • 14 Oct Jim Hines Breaks 10-Second Barrier in Olympic 100m Sprint: In a historic moment at the Mexico City Olympics, James Hines of the United States became the first athlete to break the ten-second barrier in the 100 meters sprint, achieving an extraordinary time of 9.95 seconds. This groundbreaking performance would remain unmatched until 1983, marking a significant milestone in track and field history.
  • 15 Oct Black Power Salute at 1968 Mexico City Olympics: During the Olympic men's 200 metres medal ceremony, African American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their black-gloved fists in a powerful Black Power salute, creating an iconic moment of civil rights protest on an international stage. Their gesture symbolized the ongoing struggle for racial equality in the United States.
  • 16 Oct 1968 Olympic Black Power Salute: During the medal ceremony in the Olympic Stadium in Mexico City, African-American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised black-gloved fists during the US national anthem to protest racial discrimination. Smith won the 200-meter race with a world-record time of 19.83 seconds, Carlos finished third with 20.10 seconds. Australian Peter Norman, who finished second, wore an Olympic Project for Human Rights pin in solidarity with their protest.
  • 17 Oct Black Athletes' Silent Protest at Mexico City Olympics: During the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City, African American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos made a powerful silent protest against racial inequality by raising their black-gloved fists during the medal ceremony for the 200-meter sprint. This iconic moment became a landmark symbol of the civil rights movement, drawing international attention to racial discrimination in the United States.
  • 18 Oct Bob Beamon's Historic Long Jump World Record: At the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games, Bob Beamon set an extraordinary world record in the long jump, leaping an incredible 8.90 meters. This phenomenal achievement was so remarkable that it stood unbroken for 23 years and was later recognized by Sports Illustrated as one of the five greatest sporting moments of the 20th century. Beamon's jump was so exceptional that it momentarily stunned competitors and became a legendary moment in Olympic history.
  • 19 Oct Michael Wendon Olympic Swimming Record: Australian swimmer Michael Wendon achieved a remarkable feat at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, setting a new world record of 52.2 seconds in the men's 100m freestyle swimming event. This performance highlighted Australia's strong swimming tradition and individual athletic excellence.
  • 20 Oct Jacqueline Kennedy Marries Aristotle Onassis: Former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy marries Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis in a high-profile wedding that captured global media attention.
  • 21 Oct Pentagon Riot of October 21, 1967: Anti-Vietnam War Protest: On October 21, 1967, a massive anti-Vietnam War demonstration unfolded in Washington D.C., organized by the Mobilization Committee to End the War in Vietnam. Approximately 35,000 protesters converged near the Pentagon, with a smaller, more aggressive group breaching the building's perimeter. The event escalated into a significant confrontation between protesters and law enforcement. Key details include: - 682 total arrests - 47 injuries among demonstrators, soldiers, and U.S. Marshals - Unique deployment of U.S. Deputy Marshals as primary arresting authority - Symbolic representation of civilian control over military operations The protest highlighted the deep social divisions surrounding the Vietnam War and marked a pivotal moment in American civil protest movements.
  • 22 Oct Apollo 7 Mission Successful Return: The Apollo 7 spacecraft, carrying astronauts Walter Schirra, Donn Eisele, and Walter Cunningham, successfully completed its mission and returned to Earth after an important orbital flight. The mission was crucial in restoring NASA's confidence after the tragic Apollo 1 fire and demonstrated the spacecraft's capabilities for future lunar missions.
  • 23 Oct First Indigenous Indian Warship Launched: The INS Nilgiri, a landmark achievement for the Indian Navy, was launched into the Arabian Sea from the Mazagon Dock Limited. This vessel represented India's growing naval capabilities and technological self-sufficiency, being the first warship entirely constructed within the country.
  • 25 Oct Led Zeppelin's First Live Performance: Rock band Led Zeppelin made their inaugural live performance at Surrey University in England, marking the beginning of what would become one of the most influential rock bands in music history.
  • 26 Oct Soviet Space Rendezvous: Soyuz 3 Mission: The Soyuz 3 mission achieved the first Soviet space rendezvous, marking a significant milestone in the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union.
  • 27 Oct 19th Olympic Games Close in Mexico City: The 19th Summer Olympic Games concluded in Mexico City, marking the end of a historic international sporting event that brought together athletes from around the world.
  • 29 Oct Black Tuesday: Great Depression Begins: The New York Stock Exchange experienced Black Tuesday, a catastrophic economic event that signaled the onset of the Great Depression, causing massive financial losses and triggering a decade of economic hardship for the United States.
  • 30 Oct Jacqueline Kennedy Marries Aristotle Onassis: Former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy marries Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis on the picturesque island of Scorpios, marking a significant personal transition after the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
  • 31 Oct US Halts Bombing of North Vietnam: President Lyndon B. Johnson orders a complete cessation of all air, naval, and artillery bombardment of North Vietnam, effective November 1, as a result of progress in the Paris peace talks.
  • 01 Nov US Halts Bombardment of North Vietnam: The United States ceased military operations against North Vietnam at 9:00 PM local time, with aircraft, naval vessels, and ground artillery units stopping their missions, signaling a potential diplomatic shift in the Vietnam War.
  • 02 Nov Civil Rights March in Derry Defies Ban: A significant civil rights demonstration organized by the Derry Citizens' Action Committee (DCAC) successfully proceeded despite an official ban. The massive public turnout overwhelmed the Royal Ulster Constabulary's attempts to prevent the march, marking a pivotal moment in the Northern Ireland civil rights movement.
  • 03 Nov Greek Political Unrest: Papandreou's Funeral and Mass Demonstration: Former Greek Prime Minister Georgios Papandreou is buried amid massive political protests, with 300,000 citizens demonstrating against the ruling military junta, highlighting significant political tension in Greece.
  • 04 Nov Northern Ireland Political Talks: Northern Ireland Prime Minister Terence O'Neill met with British Prime Minister Harold Wilson to discuss the political situation in Northern Ireland. Wilson emphasized that any constitutional changes would require the consent of the local population, reflecting the complex political dynamics of the time.
  • 05 Nov Nixon (R) beats VP Humphrey (D) and George C Wallace for presidency
  • 06 Nov Richard Nixon Elected 37th President of the United States: Richard Nixon won the 1968 presidential election, defeating Democratic candidate Hubert Humphrey in a pivotal and closely contested race during a tumultuous period of social and political change in the United States.
  • 08 Nov MPAA Introduces Film Rating System: The Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) implemented a new film rating system, categorizing movies as 'G', 'M', 'R', or 'X'. The 'M' rating would later evolve into the 'PG' (parental guidance suggested) classification, revolutionizing movie content guidance for audiences.
  • 09 Nov Loyalist March in Derry: Ian Paisley and Ronald Bunting led a provocative Loyalist march to the Diamond area of Derry, Northern Ireland. This event was part of the complex political tensions during the early years of the Northern Ireland conflict, known as 'The Troubles'.
  • 10 Nov Mário Soares Released from Banishment: Portuguese socialist leader Mário Soares was freed from political banishment, marking a significant moment in Portugal's political resistance against the authoritarian Estado Novo regime. Soares, a key figure in the Portuguese democratic movement, was released from exile in Sao Tomé under the new leadership of Marcello Caetano.
  • 11 Nov Vietnam War: Operation Commando Hunt: The United States military initiated Operation Commando Hunt, a strategic campaign designed to disrupt and interdict North Vietnamese supply lines and troop movements along the Ho Chi Minh Trail through Laos into South Vietnam. This operation was part of the broader military efforts to weaken the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army's logistical capabilities.
  • 12 Nov Tinker v. Des Moines Supreme Court Case: Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District is argued before the Supreme Court of the United States, a landmark case concerning student free speech rights.
  • 13 Nov Northrop HL-10 Wingless Aircraft First Rocket-Powered Flight: The Northrop HL-10 experimental aircraft, nicknamed 'the flying flatiron', successfully completed its first rocket-powered flight, marking a significant milestone in aerospace engineering and experimental aircraft design.
  • 14 Nov Yale University Goes Co-Educational: Yale University announced its groundbreaking decision to become co-educational, ending 267 years of male-only admission and paving the way for gender equality in higher education.
  • 15 Nov US Air Force Launches Operation Commando Hunt: The United States Air Force initiated Operation Commando Hunt, a large-scale aerial bombing campaign targeting the Ho Chi Minh trail during the Vietnam War, aimed at disrupting North Vietnamese supply lines and military logistics.
  • 16 Nov Polish Communist Party Politburo Reshuffles Leadership: During the Fifth Congress of the Polish United Workers' Party (PZPR), Władysław Gomułka was re-elected as General Secretary, signaling continuity in party leadership. The congress marked a significant internal power restructuring, with three Politburo members being removed, notably Foreign Minister Adam Rapacki. Rapacki's dismissal was primarily due to his disagreement with the party's hardline approach towards student protests, which were growing increasingly vocal during this period of political tension. Three new hardline members were appointed to replace the ousted officials, indicating a more conservative and potentially repressive direction for the party's leadership.
  • 17 Nov Panagoulis Condemned to Death: Greek resistance fighter Alexandros Panagoulis is sentenced to death for his attempted assassination of military dictator George Papadopoulos during the Greek military junta. This event highlights the political repression of the time.
  • 18 Nov Soviet Zond 6 Lunar Mission Recovery: On November 18, 1968, the Soviet space program successfully recovered the Zond 6 spacecraft after its lunar flyby mission. This mission was part of the Soviet Union's ambitious lunar exploration program during the Space Race, representing a significant technological achievement in space exploration and reconnaissance.
  • 19 Nov Mali Military Coup Led by Lieutenant Moussa Traoré: On November 19, 1968, Lieutenant Moussa Traoré led a bloodless military coup d'état in Mali, successfully overthrowing President Modibo Keita and establishing himself as the new head of state. This political transition marked a significant moment in Mali's post-colonial history, representing a shift in political leadership through military intervention.
  • 20 Nov Vietnam War Combat Incident: During the Vietnam War on November 20, 1968, a Long Range Patrol team from F Company, 58th Infantry, 101st Airborne was ambushed by North Vietnamese army regulars from the 4th and 5th Regiments. The eleven-man team was surrounded and nearly decimated in a fierce engagement. After several hours of intense combat, seven wounded survivors were rescued by an impromptu rescue force composed of fellow unit members, demonstrating the extreme risks and close-knit nature of combat operations during the conflict.
  • 21 Nov Cincinnati Reds Trade Leo Cardenas to Minnesota Twins: The Cincinnati Reds traded shortstop Leo Cardenas to the Minnesota Twins in exchange for pitcher Jim Merritt, marking a significant player exchange during the 1968 baseball season.
  • 22 Nov First Interracial Kiss on Television: In a landmark moment for television and civil rights, Star Trek aired an episode featuring the first interracial kiss on American television. Captain Kirk (William Shatner) and Lieutenant Uhura (Nichelle Nichols) shared a historic on-screen kiss in the episode 'Plato's Stepchildren', breaking significant racial barriers in media representation.
  • 23 Nov Milwaukee Bucks First NBA Trade: The Milwaukee Bucks completed their first significant NBA trade, exchanging players Bob Love and Bob Weiss to the Chicago Bulls in return for Flynn Robinson. This early transaction was part of the team's strategic player development and roster management during their formative years in the NBA.
  • 24 Nov U.S. Military Attack on Tham Piu Cave: A tragic U.S. military operation in Laos resulted in the deaths of 374 civilians during an attack on the Tham Piu Cave in Xiangkhouang Province, representing a devastating incident during the Vietnam War era.
  • 25 Nov Death of Upton Sinclair: Upton Beall Sinclair, a prominent American author known for his muckraking novels and social activism, passed away on November 25, 1968, at the age of 90. Sinclair was a significant literary figure who exposed social injustices through works like 'The Jungle' and was an influential voice in early 20th-century progressive movements.
  • 26 Nov The Beatles Release White Album: The Beatles released their groundbreaking self-titled double album, commonly known as the 'White Album', which became a landmark recording in rock music history.
  • 27 Nov Penny Ann Early becomes the first woman to play in a major professional men's basketball league, for the Kentucky Colonels in an ABA game against the Los Angeles Stars.
  • 28 Nov John Lennon Fined for Drug Possession: Beatles member John Lennon was fined £150 for unauthorized drug possession, reflecting the era's strict legal approach to drug-related offenses and the ongoing scrutiny of high-profile musicians during the late 1960s.
  • 29 Nov Civil Rights Tension in Northern Ireland: A Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association march in Armagh was halted by the Royal Ulster Constabulary due to the presence of a Loyalist counter-demonstration led by prominent political figures Ian Paisley and Ronald Bunting. This event highlights the deep political and sectarian tensions in Northern Ireland during the late 1960s.
  • 30 Nov Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association March Stopped: A Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association march in Armagh was halted by the Royal Ulster Constabulary due to a Loyalist counter-demonstration led by prominent figures Ian Paisley and Ronald Bunting, highlighting the tensions during the Northern Ireland conflict.
  • 01 Dec Broadway Musical Premiere: Burt Bacharach and Hal David's musical 'Promises, Promises' opens at the Shubert Theater in New York City, launching a successful run of 1,281 performances.
  • 02 Dec Nixon Appoints Kissinger as National Security Advisor: President Richard Nixon appointed Henry Kissinger as his National Security Advisor, a pivotal moment in U.S. foreign policy. Kissinger would go on to become a highly influential diplomat and strategist during the Cold War era, later serving as Secretary of State.
  • 03 Dec Elvis Presley's Legendary Comeback Special: Elvis Presley made a triumphant return to live performance with his iconic 1-hour NBC television special, marking his first live concert in seven years. This groundbreaking broadcast effectively re-launched his musical career and reestablished him as a premier entertainment icon.
  • 04 Dec The Rolling Stones Release Iconic Album *Beggars Banquet*: The Rolling Stones release their seminal album *Beggars Banquet*, which includes the legendary track 'Sympathy for the Devil', a song that would become one of the band's most critically acclaimed and enduring musical compositions. The album represents a significant moment in rock music history.
  • 05 Dec Rolling Stones Release 'Beggar's Banquet' Album: The Rolling Stones released their critically acclaimed album 'Beggar's Banquet', which featured the iconic track 'Sympathy for the Devil', marking a significant moment in rock music history and showcasing the band's evolving musical style.
  • 06 Dec Major League Baseball Dismisses Commissioner William Eckert: After a three-year tenure, Major League Baseball's leadership decided to remove Commissioner William Eckert from his position, signaling significant organizational changes in professional baseball.
  • 07 Dec USCGC White Alder Maritime Disaster: A catastrophic maritime incident occurred when the United States Coast Guard cutter White Alder (WLM-541) was sheared in half by the Taiwanese freighter Helena near White Castle, Louisiana. The tragic collision resulted in the loss of 17 Coast Guard crewmen. Only three bodies were recovered, with fourteen remaining entombed in the sunken vessel beneath river sediment. A navigation structure now marks the site of this devastating peacetime maritime tragedy.
  • 08 Dec First Public Demonstration of Hypertext and Computer Mouse: Douglas Engelbart publicly demonstrated the NLS (oN-Line System), a groundbreaking computer interface system that introduced hypertext and the computer mouse at a conference in San Francisco. This pivotal moment would fundamentally transform human-computer interaction and lay the groundwork for modern graphical user interfaces.
  • 09 Dec Douglas Engelbart's Groundbreaking Computer Demonstration: Douglas Engelbart publicly unveiled the revolutionary 'The Mother of All Demos' at Stanford Research Institute, showcasing unprecedented technological innovations including the computer mouse, hypertext, bit-mapped graphical user interface, and the oN-Line System (NLS). This landmark presentation fundamentally transformed human-computer interaction and laid the groundwork for modern personal computing.
  • 10 Dec Death of Thomas Merton: Thomas Merton, a renowned French-American Catholic writer and Trappist monk, tragically died at the age of 53 after being accidentally electrocuted by an electric fan in Thailand. Merton was a prominent spiritual writer, social activist, and influential figure in interfaith dialogue during the mid-20th century.
  • 11 Dec "Oliver!" Film Release in the United States: The musical film "Oliver!", based on the hit London and Broadway musical, was released in the United States. The film would go on to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, marking a significant moment in cinema history.
  • 12 Dec Rolling Stones Film 'Rock and Roll Circus': The Rolling Stones produced a groundbreaking TV show 'Rock and Roll Circus', featuring an extraordinary lineup of guest performers including The Who, Jethro Tull, Taj Mahal, Marianne Faithfull, John Lennon, and Yoko Ono.
  • 13 Dec Brazil's AI-5: Suspension of Civil Liberties: On December 13, 1968, Brazilian President Artur da Costa e Silva issued the Institutional Act No. 5 (AI-5), a pivotal moment in Brazil's military dictatorship. This decree effectively suspended constitutional rights, enabled government rule by decree, and eliminated habeas corpus protections. The act marked the beginning of the most repressive period of Brazil's military regime, granting the government unprecedented powers to suppress political opposition, censor media, and arbitrarily arrest and persecute dissidents.
  • 14 Dec The Rolling Stones Release 'Beggars Banquet': The Rolling Stones released their critically acclaimed album 'Beggars Banquet', which featured the iconic track 'Sympathy for the Devil'. This album marked a significant moment in rock music history, blending blues, rock, and experimental sounds that would influence generations of musicians.
  • 15 Dec Death of Jess Willard, Heavyweight Boxing Champion: Jess Willard, a prominent heavyweight boxer known for his significant role in early 20th-century boxing, passed away at the age of 86. Willard was famous for being the heavyweight champion who lost the title to Jack Dempsey in a legendary 1919 fight, marking a pivotal moment in boxing history.
  • 16 Dec Vatican Council Rescinds Edict of Expulsion of Jews: The Second Vatican Council officially revoked the historic Edict of Expulsion of Jews from Spain, marking a significant moment of reconciliation and acknowledgment of past religious persecution. This landmark decision represented a profound shift in the Catholic Church's stance towards the Jewish community, addressing a centuries-old injustice dating back to the 1492 Alhambra Decree.
  • 17 Dec Barbara Mackle Kidnapping Ordeal: On December 17, 1968, a shocking kidnapping unfolded when 20-year-old Barbara Mackle was abducted at gunpoint by Gary Steven Krist and Ruth Eisemann-Schiel. The perpetrators buried Mackle alive in a carefully constructed coffin-like box, six feet underground in a backyard in Miami, Florida. The young woman endured an incredibly traumatic 83-hour ordeal, surviving through a small air pipe and provisions left by her captors. Her wealthy family was subjected to a $500,000 ransom demand, which drew significant national media attention. Remarkably, Mackle was eventually found alive, though the experience was undoubtedly psychologically devastating. The kidnapping became a landmark criminal case that highlighted the extreme vulnerabilities of high-profile families and the potential for calculated, methodical criminal acts.
  • 18 Dec Graham Nash Leaves The Hollies: Graham Nash made the pivotal decision to leave the British pop group The Hollies and form the legendary supergroup Crosby, Stills & Nash with David Crosby and Stephen Stills, a move that would significantly impact the folk-rock music scene.
  • 19 Dec Massive Eastern Air Lines Hijacking to Cuba: A significant aviation security incident occurred when Eastern Air Lines Flight was hijacked to Cuba, involving 151 passengers—the largest single hijacking to Cuba since the practice began in 1959. This event highlighted the escalating political tensions and security challenges in air travel during the Cold War era.
  • 20 Dec Mao's Cultural Revolution: 'Up to the Mountains and Down to the Villages': Chinese Communist Party leader Mao Zedong initiated a significant social engineering program by advocating for urban educated youth to be sent to rural areas for re-education. This marked the beginning of the 'Up to the Mountains and Down to the Villages' movement, which would dramatically impact millions of young Chinese lives during the Cultural Revolution.
  • 21 Dec Apollo 8: First Humans to Leave Earth's Gravity: The Apollo 8 mission marked a historic milestone in human space exploration. Launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, this groundbreaking mission was the first manned lunar voyage. Astronauts Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, and William Anders became the first humans to leave Earth's gravitational field and travel to another celestial body, performing the first manned Trans Lunar Injection.
  • 22 Dec Mao's Cultural Revolution Directive on Intellectual Youth: During the Cultural Revolution, Mao Zedong issued a significant directive through the People's Daily, mandating that intellectual youth must relocate to rural areas to be 'educated' through experiencing rural poverty. This policy was part of a broader campaign to reshape social structures and ideological thinking, forcing urban youth to engage with agricultural labor and communist revolutionary principles.
  • 23 Dec First Humans to Orbit the Moon: Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, and William Anders became the first humans to orbit the Moon aboard the Apollo 8 mission, marking a historic milestone in space exploration and the Space Race.
  • 24 Dec Apollo 8 Moon Orbit Mission: The Apollo 8 mission marked a historic milestone in space exploration when its crew became the first humans to enter lunar orbit. Astronauts Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, and William Anders performed ten lunar orbits, captured the iconic Earthrise photograph, and broadcast live television pictures from space. During their Christmas Eve broadcast, they read the first ten verses of Genesis, creating a profound moment of human connection and wonder.
  • 25 Dec Apollo 8: Historic Lunar Mission and Return Trajectory: On Christmas Day 1968, the Apollo 8 mission achieved a groundbreaking milestone by performing the first successful Trans Earth Injection (TEI) maneuver. This critical operation sent the spacecraft and its crew on a trajectory back to Earth from lunar orbit, marking a significant achievement in human space exploration during the Space Race.
  • 26 Dec Led Zeppelin's Concert Debut in Boston: Led Zeppelin makes their historic concert debut in Boston, Massachusetts, opening for Vanilla Fudge, marking the beginning of what would become one of the most influential rock bands in music history.
  • 27 Dec Apollo 8 Returns to Earth: Apollo 8 successfully completed its historic mission, becoming the first crewed spacecraft to orbit the Moon. The mission, led by astronauts Frank Borman, James Lovell, and William Anders, marked a pivotal moment in space exploration during the height of the Space Race.
  • 28 Dec The Beatles' White Album Tops Charts: The Beatles' self-titled double album (commonly known as the 'White Album') reached #1 on the music charts and maintained its top position for an impressive 9 weeks, demonstrating the band's immense popularity and musical influence.
  • 29 Dec Israeli Commando Operation in Lebanon: Israeli special forces conducted a strategic military operation, destroying 13 Lebanese aircraft, which was likely part of ongoing regional tensions and military preparedness during the late 1960s.
  • 30 Dec R&B Chart Dominance: Gladys Knight And The Pips' iconic track 'I Heard It Through The Grapevine' reigned supreme on the R&B charts on December 30, 1968. The song, which would become a timeless classic, highlighted the powerful soul and rhythm and blues music of the late 1960s.
  • 31 Dec First Supersonic Civilian Airliner Flight: The Tupolev Tu-144, a groundbreaking Soviet supersonic passenger aircraft, completed its inaugural flight, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. This aircraft, often nicknamed the 'Concordski' due to its similarity to the Anglo-French Concorde, represented a major technological achievement for the Soviet aerospace industry.

What happened in 1968?

Discover what the world looked like in 1968:

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