The final episode of the TV series 'Star Trek: Enterprise' was aired in the United States. It was the first time in 18 years without a Star Trek series in production.

In Andijan, Uzbekistan, Uzbek troops fired into a crowd of protesters killing over 400 people. The protesters were demanding the release of members of a banned Islamic group.

A fireworks factory exploded in Enschede, Netherlands. The explosion killed twenty two and wounded approximately one thousand people.

A series of severe thunderstorms as well as a tornado killed over 600 people in Bangladesh.

Turkish terrorist, Mehmet Ali Agca, attempted to assassinate Pope John Paul II in St. Peter's Square in Rome. The would be assassin served 19 years in an Italian jail, before being extradited to serve the remaining sentence in Turkey.

Velcro's trade mark is registered. It was invented by a Swiss engineer, Georges de Mestral.

The first ever Formula One Grand Prix was held in Silverstone Circuit, England.

American singer and musician, Stevie Wonder, was born in Saginaw, Michigan.

Germany began its invasion of France with German forces crossing the Meuse River.

American actor, Harvey Keitel, was born in Brooklyn, New York.

American boxer, Joe Louis, was born in Alabama, USA. He was the world heavyweight champion in boxing for almost 12 straight years.

Greek doctor and researcher, George Papanikolaou, was born in Kimi, Evoia. He is known worldwide for his invention his known as the Pap smear (Papanikolaou's test), which is used to detect and prevent cervical cancer and other cytological diseases of the female reproductive system.

The United States declared war on Mexico. The main cause of the war was Mexico's refusal to recognize Texas as a legitimate state after the 1836 Texas Revolution. By 1845 Texas became the 28th state of the United States with Mexico claiming that the US was interfering in its internal affairs.

Ecuador gained its independence from the rule of Gran Colombia.