Three trains collide in the Ghotki rail crash in Ghotki, Pakistan, killing over 150 people.

Approximately 3000 Tamils were slaughtered in Sri Lanka marking the beginnings of civil war in the country.

A blackout occurred in New York City, which lasted for 25 hours and resulted in widespread looting and general disorder.

American film director, Cameron Crowe, was born in Palm Springs, California. He is most known for writing and directing the hit movies Jerry Maquire and the autobiographical Almost Famous.

American actor, Harrison Ford, was born in Chicago, Illinois. He is most known for his performances in the Star Wars film series, as well as the Indiana Jones of Raiders trilogy. The combined gross of the movies he has participated in, rank him as number 2 money making actor of all time, behind fellow actor Tom Hanks.

English actor, Patrick Stewart, was born in Yorkshire. Though he is generally acknowledged as one of the most talented Shakespearean and theatrical actors of his generation, he is most known for his portrayal of Captain Jean-Luc Picard in the Star Trek the Next Generation television series.

Women took part in the Olympic Games for the first time in history.

A series of severe riots began in New York City by opponents of conscription. The riots lasted three days and are considered as the worst in United States history.

American general, Nathan Bedford Forrest, was born in Chapel Hill, Tennessee. He was a Confederate army general and is widely considered as the founder of the original Ku Klux Klan.

Roman ruler, Julius Caesar, was born in Rome. He was one of the most influential men in world history.