During a riot in the Carandiru prison in Sao Paolo, Brazil, the military police was sent to quell the rioting prisoners. At the end of the day 111 prisoners were dead, 102 of which were killed by the military police.

American actor, Rock Hudson, died at the age of 59. While he was a fairly successful actor, he is most remembered as being the first major celebrity to die from the AIDS virus.

Guinea declared itself independent from the rule of France.

American musician, Don McLean, was born in New Rochelle, New York, USA. He is most famous for his ballad "American Pie", a song about the plane crash in which Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and the Big Bopper were killed.

Italy invaded Abyssinia (Modern day Ethiopia).

American comedian and actor, Groucho Marx, was born in New York City. He was part of the Marx Brothers group, that marked the stage with its unique comedy style during the first half of the 20th century.

American revolutionary leader, Samuel Adams, died at the age of 81. He was one of the chief architects of the American revolution.

American, Francis Hopkinson, was born in Philadelphia. He was one of the authors and signees of the American Declaration of Independence.