A strong earthquake, measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale, hit Kobe, Japan, resulting in extensive property damage and the death of more than 6,300 people.

Canadian actor, Jim Carrey, was born in Ontario, Canada. He is most known for his performances in a series of slapstick comedy films, but is also highly regarded as an accomplished actor for his performances in drama films such as The Truman Show, The Majestic and Man on the Moon.

One of the biggest robberies of all time took place in Boston, Massachusetts, when over 2 million dollars were stolen from the offices of an armoured car company.

American comedian, Andy Kaufman, was born in New York. He is most remembered by his role in the hit TV series, Taxi.

The first ever situation comedy (sitcom), The Goldbergs, premiered on American television. It was produced until 1947.

The first session of the UN Security Council was held.

Soviet forces captured the Polish city of Warsaw.

The famous cartoon, Popeye the Sailor Man, appeared for the first time in the Thimble, Comic Strip Theater.

American gangster, Al Capone, was born in New York.

The republic of Colombia was declared by the revolutionary Simon Bolivar.

James Cook became the first explorer to cross the Antarctic Circle.

American statesman, Benjamin Franklin, was born in Boston Massachusetts. He was one of the founding fathers of the United States.