The first American test-tube baby was born in Norfolk, Virginia.

Israeli commandos destroyed 13 civilian aircraft at Beirut International Airport.

American actor, Denzel Washington, was born in Mount Vernon, New York. He is a two-time Academy Award-winning actor and one of the most financially successful actors currently working in Hollywood (2006).

French composer, Maurice Ravel, died at the age if 62. He is generally considered as one of the major composers of the 20th century. He is most famous for his orchestral piece, Bolero,

British actress, Maggie Smith, was born in Ilford, Essex. She is one of the most respectable and most critically acclaimed actresses of the 20th and early 21st century.

American writer, Stan Lee, was born in New York City. He is credited with the success of the success of 'Marvel Comics' having created some of the most successful heroes in the comic books world.

An earthquake hit Messina, Sicily resulting in the death of more than 140,000 people. It is considered as the strongest earthquake to have ever hit the continent of Europe.

The play, Cyrano de Bergerac, by Edmond Rostand, premiered in Paris.

The Tay Bridge in Dundee, Scotland collapsed while a train was passing over it. The accident caused the death of 75 people.

Iowa was admitted as the 29th U.S. state.

Westminster Abbey was consecrated. It is the place of both coronation and burial for English monarchs.