Many people argue that the 1960s was the defining decade of the 20th century. 1968 for example was an important year for the defence of freedom and rebellion. Events in France, Mexico, Poland and the USA contributed to what has been described as "a spontaneous combustion of rebellious spirits around the world". And, mostly, they were spontaneous.

Charles de Gaulle didn't see it coming. Having settled himself in as the French President 10 years previously, he stated that he greeted 1968 with serenity. Serene it wasn't. The Soviet Union didn't see it coming. Both Poland and Czechoslovakia began their journey towards freedom in that year. Chicago didn't see it coming. The Chicago National Democratic Convention in August was besieged with various groups of protestors against the Vietnam War. In Prague, Chicago, Paris, Warsaw and elsewhere, somehow people developed a motivating desire for change. Some say that there has been no other year like it. What do you think?

(Source for quote: Kurlansky Mark: 1968 The Year That Rocked the World: Cape London 2004). You might find this book at www.brockwells.co.uk if you don't, try asking them to find a copy for you.

Listed below are the defining moments that happened in the month of OctoberSubscribers to BabyBoomersUK can add a defining moment to the list.

	Date		Moment Title		File
	Oct 1952		Tea Rationing Ends
	Oct 1967		Che Guevara Killed
	Oct 1995		OJ Simpson Trial Ends