1968 Queen of the United Kingdom - HM Queen Elizabeth II

 

Queen Elizabeth II is the longest-reigning current monarch in the world, having ascended to the throne on February 6, 1952, following the death of her father, King George VI. She was born on April 21, 1926, in London, England, as the first child of the Duke and Duchess of York, who later became King George VI and Queen Elizabeth.

Elizabeth was educated privately at home and began to undertake public duties during World War II, serving in the Auxiliary Territorial Service. She also served as a mechanic and truck driver, and was the first female member of the royal family to actively serve in the military. In 1947, she married Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and they have four children: Prince Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward.

On February 6, 1952, while on a tour of Kenya, Elizabeth received word of her father's death and her own ascension to the throne. She returned to London immediately, where she was greeted by Prime Minister Winston Churchill and officially ascended to the throne on June 2, 1953, at Westminster Abbey. Her coronation was the first to be televised, and was watched by millions of people around the world.

As Queen, Elizabeth II has undertaken numerous state visits and tours abroad, visiting over 120 countries, and has also played a central role in the development of the Commonwealth of Nations. She has also been a patron of over 600 organizations, including charities and arts bodies. Her role as head of the Commonwealth has been instrumental in promoting peace and understanding among its member countries.

Throughout her reign, Queen Elizabeth II has been a symbol of continuity and stability, and has shown a deep sense of duty and commitment to her role as Queen. She has also been a strong advocate for the arts, education, and charitable causes, and has worked to improve the lives of people both in the UK and around the world. She has also been a strong supporter of the armed forces and has regularly visited troops both at home and abroad.

Queen Elizabeth II has also seen great changes in her reign, including the end of British colonialism and the emergence of the Commonwealth of Nations, the Cold War and the dissolution of the Soviet Union, and the ongoing issue of the constitutional status of Northern Ireland. She has also seen the United Kingdom become a more diverse and multicultural society, and has been a vocal advocate for tolerance and understanding.

In 2012, the Queen celebrated her Diamond Jubilee, marking 60 years on the throne, making her the second British monarch after Queen Victoria to celebrate such an event. The jubilee was marked by a series of events and celebrations, both in the UK and around the Commonwealth, and was attended by leaders and representatives from around the world. In 2017, she became the first British monarch to celebrate a Sapphire Jubilee, marking 65 years on the throne.

Queen Elizabeth II continues to undertake a busy schedule of engagements, both in the UK and abroad, and is widely respected and admired both at home and around the world. She is also known for her strong sense of duty and commitment to her role, as well as her sense of humor and down-to-earth nature. Despite her many years on the throne, she remains an important and active figure in the public life of the United Kingdom, and is a symbol of continuity and stability in an ever-changing world.

Queen Elizabeth II died on 8 September 2022 at the age of 96. She was queen regnant of 32 sovereign states during her lifetime, and was head of state of 15 realms at the time of her death. Her reign of 70 years and 214 days was the longest of any British monarch and the longest verified reign of any female monarch in history.

In 1968 - Queen Elizabeth II began 1968 with a state visit to France, where she met with President Charles de Gaulle and participated in a variety of ceremonies and events. The visit was marked by a state banquet at the Elysée Palace, a visit to the Palace of Versailles, and a tour of the city of Paris. The Queen and the President also discussed issues of mutual concern, including the ongoing Cold War and the European Economic Community.

In March of that year, the Queen opened the new British Trade Fair in London. The fair was an important event for the British economy, as it showcased the latest products and services from British companies and aimed to promote trade and investment between the UK and other countries. The Queen toured the fairgrounds and met with representatives from various businesses and organizations.

In April 1968, Queen Elizabeth II made a state visit to West Germany, where she met with President Heinrich Lübke and participated in a variety of ceremonies and events. The visit included a state banquet at the Presidential Palace, a tour of the city of Bonn, and a visit to the German Parliament. The Queen and the President also discussed issues of mutual concern, including the ongoing Cold War and the European Economic Community.

In June 1968, the Queen opened the new British Library in London. The library was a major project that had been in the works for several years, and it was designed to be a world-class research facility. The Queen toured the library, met with staff and researchers, and officially declared it open.

In July 1968, Queen Elizabeth II made a state visit to Canada, where she participated in the country's centennial celebrations. The visit included a tour of the country, with stops in cities such as Ottawa, Montreal, and Toronto. The Queen also participated in a number of events and ceremonies, including a state banquet at the Governor General's residence and a visit to the Canadian Parliament.

In October 1968, the Queen opened the new Royal Opera House in London. The opera house had been rebuilt after a fire destroyed the original building in the late 1950s, and it was now one of the most modern and technologically advanced opera houses in the world. The Queen was given a tour of the facility, met with staff and performers, and officially declared it open.

In November 1968, Queen Elizabeth II made a state visit to Mexico, where she met with President Gustavo Díaz Ordaz and participated in a variety of ceremonies and events. The visit included a state banquet at the Presidential Palace, a tour of the city of Mexico City, and a visit to the Mexican Congress. The Queen and the President also discussed issues of mutual concern, including the ongoing Cold War and trade relations between the two countries.

Throughout the year, Queen Elizabeth II also carried out various engagements within the United Kingdom, including opening new buildings, visiting schools and hospitals, and hosting state visits from foreign dignitaries.

Overall, 1968 was a busy year for Queen Elizabeth II, as she carried out a variety of engagements both at home and abroad, and represented the United Kingdom on the international stage. The Queen visited a number of different countries, met with various leaders and dignitaries, and participated in many important events and ceremonies. Her visits and engagements were aimed at promoting the interests of the United Kingdom, both domestically and internationally.

Young Photo of the Queen taken by Dorothy Wilding for The Royal Family & Latest photo - courtesy of tfp.at

Black Power Movement of 1968

 The Black Power Movement of 1968 was a civil rights movement that emphasized racial pride and the creation of black political and economic power. It emerged in the late 1960s as a response to the perceived failures of the Civil Rights Movement to fully address the issues of economic inequality and police brutality faced by many African Americans.

On April 4, 1968, the movement suffered a significant blow when Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. This event further galvanized the Black Power Movement, as many saw the failure of non-violent civil rights tactics in the face of ongoing violence against African Americans.

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Leaders of the Black Power Movement, such as Stokely Carmichael and Huey P. Newton, called for black people to reject the idea of integration with white society and instead work to build their own independent institutions and communities. They advocated for policies such as affirmative action, community control of schools and police, and reparations for the descendants of slaves.

One of the key events of the Black Power Movement in 1968 was the "Black Power" speech given by Olympian Tommie Smith and John Carlos during the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City on October 16, 1968. Smith and Carlos raised their fists in a Black Power salute during the national anthem, sparking controversy and discussions around the country. This act was not only seen as a political statement, but also as a symbol of the growing black consciousness and pride, which was the core of the Black Power Movement.

The movement also led to the formation of new black nationalist organizations such as the Black Panthers, which was founded on October 15, 1966, and advocated for self-defense and community control, and the Republic of New Africa, which sought to establish an independent black nation in the southern United States. These organizations provided a platform for black people to voice their grievances and demand political and economic power.

However, the movement faced significant opposition, both from white supremacists and from some within the Civil Rights Movement who felt that the Black Power Movement's tactics and rhetoric were divisive and harmful. Despite this opposition, the movement continued to grow and gain support throughout 1968, and had a lasting impact on American society and politics.

In summary, the Black Power Movement of 1968 was a civil rights movement that sought to empower African Americans by promoting racial pride and building independent black political and economic power. It was marked by key events such as the "Black Power" speech by Tommie Smith and John Carlos on October 16, 1968, the formation of new black nationalist organizations and the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr on April 4, 1968, but also faced significant opposition. Despite this, the movement had a lasting impact on American society and politics, and continues to be remembered and studied today.

Photo: courtesy of writingcities.com

1968 King of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

  

Photo Source: Wikipedia

Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was a prominent figure in the history of Saudi Arabia, known for his leadership and contributions to the country's development. He played a key role in the modernization of Saudi Arabia, and was instrumental in the country's economic and social development during his tenure as king.

Faisal was born on 14 April 1906 in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. He was the third son of King Abdulaziz, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia. Growing up, Faisal was known for his intelligence and strong sense of responsibility, qualities that would serve him well later in life.

In 1953, Faisal was appointed as Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, and he served in this position until he became king in 1964, following the death of his half-brother King Saud. During his time as Crown Prince, Faisal played a key role in the country's administration, and was responsible for many important decisions that helped to shape the future of Saudi Arabia.

In his role as king, Faisal focused on modernizing Saudi Arabia and promoting economic and social development. He implemented a number of policies and initiatives that aimed to improve the lives of citizens and spur economic growth. One of his most notable achievements was the introduction of the "Faisalization" program, which aimed to improve the education, health, and welfare of Saudi citizens. He also played a key role in the establishment of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), which helped to establish Saudi Arabia as a major player in the global oil market.

In addition to his domestic accomplishments, Faisal was also a respected statesman and diplomat on the international stage. He was known for his efforts to promote peace and stability in the region, and worked to improve relations between Saudi Arabia and other countries.

Sadly, Faisal's reign was cut short when he was assassinated on 25 March 1975. His death was a significant loss to Saudi Arabia and the world, as he had become a respected and influential leader who had played a vital role in the development of his country. Nevertheless, his legacy lives on, and his contributions to the modernization of Saudi Arabia will be remembered for years to come.

Civil Rights Movement in 1968

 Photo Source: BBC News

The Civil Rights Movement in 1968 was marked by both progress and tragedy. On one hand, many significant advances were made in the fight for racial equality, but on the other hand, the movement lost one of its most prominent and influential leaders in the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.

One of the major events of 1968 was the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, also known as the Fair Housing Act. This legislation, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on April 11th, prohibited discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin, and sex. This was a significant step forward in the fight for racial equality, as it helped to address the issue of housing discrimination and provide greater access to homeownership for people of color.

Another important event was the formation of the Black Power Movement. The Black Power Movement was a cultural and political movement that sought to empower Black people and promote self-determination and pride in their African heritage. The movement, which began to gain momentum in the mid-1960s, advocated for more militant and radical tactics than the traditional Civil Rights Movement. One of the most famous examples of the Black Power Movement was the Black Panthers, who advocated for self-defense and community control.

However, the most impactful event of 1968 was the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4th. King, who had been at the forefront of the civil rights movement and the fight for equality for African Americans, was shot and killed while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. His death sparked riots and protests in cities across the United States, and left the Civil Rights Movement without one of its most prominent and influential leaders.

Despite this tragedy, the Civil Rights Movement continued to make progress in 1968. Civil rights activists and leaders such as Jesse Jackson, Ralph Abernathy, and Coretta Scott King stepped forward to continue Martin Luther King Jr.'s work. Additionally, many African Americans continued to organize and fight for equal rights on a grassroots level.

In conclusion, the Civil Rights Movement in 1968 was marked by both progress and tragedy. The Civil Rights Act of 1968 and the Black Power Movement were significant steps forward in the fight for racial equality, but the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. was a major setback. Nevertheless, the Civil Rights Movement continued to push for change and make progress, as activists and leaders stepped forward to continue the fight for racial equality.

Honey

"Honey", also known as "Honey (I Miss You)", is a song written by Bobby Russell. He first produced it with former Kingston Trio member Bob Shane. Then he gave it to American singer Bobby Goldsboro, who recorded it for his 1968 album of the same name, originally titled Pledge of Love.

The song's narrator mourns his deceased wife, beginning with him looking at a tree in their garden, remembering how "it was just a twig" on the day she planted it. This single was released February 17, 1968 and a US No. 1 the week of April 7, 1968.

Honey

See the tree, how big it's grown

But friend, it hasn't been too long

It wasn't big

I laughed at her, and she got mad

The first day that she planted it

Was just a twig

Then the first snow came

And she ran out to brush the snow away

So it wouldn't die

Came runnin' in all excited

Slipped and almost hurt herself

And I laughed 'til I cried

She was always young at heart

Kinda dumb, and kinda smart

And I loved her so

And I surprised her with a puppy

Kept me up all Christmas eve

Two years ago

And it would sure embarrass her

When I came in from workin' late

'Cause I would know

That she'd been sittin' there and cryin'

Over some sad and silly late, late show

And honey, I miss you

And I'm bein' good

And I'd love to be with you

If only I could

She wrecked the car, and she was sad

And so afraid that I'd be mad

But what the heck

Though I pretended hard to be

Guess you could say she saw through me

And hugged my neck

I came home unexpectedly

And caught her cryin' needlessly

In the middle of the day

And it was in the early spring

When flowers bloom, and robins sing

She went away

And honey, I miss you

And I'm bein' good

And I'd love to be with you

If only I could

One day while I was not at home

While she was there, and all alone

The angels came

Now all I have is memories of honey

And I wake up nights

And call her name

Now my life's an empty stage

Where honey lived, and honey played

And love grew up

And a small cloud passes overhead

And cries down on the flower bed

That honey loved

And see the tree, how big it's grown

But friend, it hasn't been too long

It wasn't big

And I laughed at her, and she got mad

The first day that she planted it

Was just a twig

Source: Musixmatch

1968 - Robert F. Kennedy assasination

Senator Robert Kennedy is shot at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles after winning the California presidential primary. Immediately after he announced to his cheering supporters that the country was ready to end its fractious divisions, Kennedy was shot several times by 22-year-old Palestinian Sirhan Sirhan. He was pronounced dead a day later, on June 6, 1968.

The summer of 1968 was a tempestuous time in American history. Both the Vietnam War and the anti-war movement were peaking. Martin Luther King, Jr. had been assassinated in the spring, igniting riots across the country. In the face of this unrest, President Lyndon B. Johnson decided not to seek a second term in the upcoming presidential election. Robert Kennedy, John F. Kennedy’s younger brother and former U.S. Attorney General, stepped into this breach and experienced a groundswell of support. 

Kennedy was perceived by many to be the only person in American politics capable of uniting the people. He was beloved by the minority community for his integrity and devotion to the civil rights cause. After winning California’s primary, Kennedy was in the position to receive the Democratic nomination and face off against Richard Nixon in the general election.

As star athletes Rafer Johnson and Roosevelt Grier accompanied Kennedy out a rear exit of the Ambassador Hotel, Sirhan Sirhan stepped forward with a rolled-up campaign poster, hiding his .22 revolver. He was only a foot away when he fired several shots at Kennedy. Grier and Johnson wrestled Sirhan to the ground, but not before five bystanders were wounded. Grier was distraught afterward and blamed himself for allowing Kennedy to be shot.

Source: History.com/photos: Pinterest

Aaron Eckhart born in March 1968

 

Aaron Eckhart is an accomplished American actor, known for his versatility and range in the roles he plays on screen. He was born on March 12, 1968 in Cupertino, California, the son of Mary Martha Lawrence, a writer, artist, and poet, and James Conrad Eckhart, a computer executive. He is the youngest of three brothers and has a diverse ancestry, with his father being of German-Russian descent and his mother having English, German, Scots-Irish, and Scottish ancestry.

Eckhart was raised as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served a two-year mission in France and Switzerland. This experience, where he learned to speak French fluently, would later serve him well in his acting career. In 1981, his family moved to the United Kingdom, where they lived in various towns in Surrey, England. This move allowed Eckhart to experience different cultures and gain a broader perspective on life.

Eckhart attended American Community School, where he was first introduced to acting, starring in a school production as Charlie Brown. However, it wasn't until he moved to Australia and settled in Sydney that he fully developed his acting skills. He attended the American International School of Sydney for his high school senior year and starred in productions like Waiting for Godot, where he admits that he gave a "terrible" performance. Despite this, the experience ignited a passion for acting in Eckhart and he knew that this is what he wanted to do with his life.

In the autumn of his senior year, Eckhart left school to take a job at the Warringah Mall movie theater. He eventually earned his diploma through an adult education course. This also allowed Eckhart time to enjoy a year of surfing in Hawaii and France, as well as skiing in the Alps. He believes that these experiences helped him become more well-rounded and gave him a deeper understanding of the world and people around him.

In 1988, Eckhart returned to the United States and enrolled as a film major at Brigham Young University–Hawaii, but later transferred to Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah. He graduated in 1994 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. He also studied acting at the William Esper Studio, where he honed his craft under the tutelage of renowned acting coach, William Esper.

After graduation, Eckhart moved to New York City to pursue his acting career. He worked hard and made a name for himself in the theater scene, before making his way to Hollywood. Since then, he has appeared in a wide range of films, including drama, comedy, and action films, earning critical acclaim and a loyal fan base along the way. He is known for his ability to disappear into a role and make it his own, and his performances have been praised for their depth and nuance.

Eckhart's talent, dedication, and hard work have resulted in a successful and enduring career in the entertainment industry. He continues to work on exciting and challenging projects, and is considered one of the most talented actors of his generation.