Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture is first performed in Moscow, Russia.

The first Soap Box Derby is held in Dayton, Ohio.

A massive fireball meteor is seen across the United Kingdom.

The USA swimmer Michael Phelps becomes the first person to win eight gold medals at the one Olympic Games.

Cyprus gets its independence from the United Kingdom.

Pope Sixtus IV consecrates the Sistine Chapel.

British troops are deployed in Northern Ireland as part if Operation Banner.

East Germany closes the border between the eastern and western sectors of Berlin top prevent attempts to escape to the West.

Isaac Singer is given a patent for his sewing machine.

The first prisoners arrive at the prison on Alcatraz Island.