Mahmoud Abbas, who had been Yasser Arafat's No. 2 man during the latter one's rule, was elected president of the Palestinian Authority in a landslide victory.

The RMS Queen Elizabeth was destroyed by a fire in Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong.

In the United Kingdom miners went on a national strike demanding higher wages. The strike lasted until February the 25th.

Argentinian footballer, Claudio Caniggia, was born in Buenos Aires. He was one of the main players of the Argentinean national team during the 1990's.

Construction of the Aswan Dam began in Egypt. It was completed in 1970.

Guatemalean activist, Rigoberta Menchu, was born in Chimel. She was awarded the Nobel peace prize in 1992 for her work in promoting human rights in her country.

German sociologist, Karl Mannheim, died at the age of 54. He is considered as one of the founders of modern sociology.

English musician, Jimmy Page, was born in London. He was one of the founding members of the legendary rock group Led Zeppelin and is widely considered as one of the most influential guitarists in rock music history.

American actor, Lee Van Cleef, was born in New Jersey. He was a popular American film actor, who is best known for his multiple appearances in Western and action pictures.

President of the United States, Richard Nixon, was born in California. He was the 37th President of the United States and is the only American President to have ever resigned from office. He resigned because he was facing impeachment due to the Watergate scandal.

The Italian sports club, S.S. Lazio, was founded in Rome, Italy.