George B. Selden is granted the first U.S. patent for an automobile.
2 November 1947
In California, designer Howard Hughes performs the maiden (and only) flight of the Hughes H-4 Hercules (also known as the “Spruce Goose”), the largest fixed-wing…
1 November 1952
Nuclear weapons testing: The United States successfully detonates Ivy Mike, the first thermonuclear device, at the Eniwetok atoll.
31 October 2011
The global population of humans reaches seven billion. This day is now recognized by the United Nations as the Day of Seven Billion.
30 October 1961
Due to “violations of Vladimir Lenin’s precepts”, it is decreed that Joseph Stalin’s body be removed from its place of honour inside Lenin’s tomb and…
29 October 1998
In South Africa, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission presents its report, which condemns both sides for committing atrocities.
28 October 1965
Pope Paul VI promulgates Nostra aetate, by which the Church officially recognizes the legitimacy of non-Christian faiths.
27 October 1962
By refusing to agree to the firing of a nuclear torpedo at a US warship, Vasily Arkhipov averts nuclear war.