1961: First man in space
On April 12, 1961, aboard the spacecraft Vostok, Soviet Major Yuri Gagarin becomes the first human being to travel into space. During the flight, the 27-year-old test pilot and industrial technician also became the first man to orbit the planet, a feat accomplished by his space capsule in 89 minutes. The only statement attributed to Gagarin during his historic one hour and 48 minutes in space was, Flight is proceeding normally; I am well.
1997
A bomb plot to kill Pope
John Paul II fails as police in Sarajevo find mines under a
bridge just hours before his arrival.
1990
The Russians admit they were responsible for the massacre of 15,000 Polish Officers and senior diplomats at Katyn Wood in the
Soviet Union in 1940.
1981
First flight of the American Space Shuttle.1966
American bombers carry out their first strike against North
Vietnam. 1961
The Russians successfully complete the first manned space flight with cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin in Vostok 1 becoming the world's first man in space.He makes one full orbit of the Earth before returning to land.1954
In America, Bill Haley records 'Rock Around The Clock' - the first record to sell a million copies in Britain. The song goes on to be featured in at least 15 films and recorded in 35 languages.1945
Vice President
Harry S.Truman becomes President of the United States following the death of Franklin D.Roosevelt.
1914
George Bernard Shaw's play
Pygmalion opens in London.
1902
In
South Africa, Boer leaders meet British commander Lord Kitchener to discuss peace proposals to end
Boer War. 1838
English settlers in South Africa defeat the Zulus at the Battle of Tugela.1709
In
Britain, publication of the first edition of the Tatler Magazine.
1606
The Union Flag officially becomes England's national flag. 
