4 October 1957 October 3, 2014 Author: Staff The first artificial satellite to orbit the Earth, Sputnik 1 is launched. Famous Words of Inspiration..."Difficulties are meant to rouse, not discourage. The human spirit is to grow strong by conflict." William Ellery Channing — Click here for more from William Ellery Channing Related posts: 8 November 1957 22 January 1957 16 February 1957 2 November 1957 14 November 1957 7 November 1957 9 April 1957 5 August 1957 25 September 275 9 April 1957 Categories: History Tags: 1957, 4 October