The Discovery of “Lucy”: A Milestone in Human Evolution
On November 24, 1974, paleoanthropologist Donald Johanson and his team unearthed one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century: the fossilized remains of a hominid in Ethiopia. Named “Lucy,” after The Beatles’ song Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, this 3.2-million-year-old Australopithecus afarensis skeleton transformed our understanding of human evolution. Lucy’s discovery […]
A Narrow Escape: Carol DaRonch vs. Ted Bundy
On November 8, 1974, a harrowing encounter between Carol DaRonch and notorious serial killer Ted Bundy occurred, highlighting the dangers that women faced and the resilience of those who fight back against violence. DaRonch’s narrow escape from Bundy’s attempted abduction would later play a pivotal role in his eventual capture, exposing the terrifying reality of […]
The Pardoning of Richard Nixon: A Controversial Decision with Lasting Impact
On September 8th, 1974, just one month after Richard Nixon became the first U.S. president to resign from office, his successor, President Gerald Ford, made a decision that would become one of the most controversial acts in American political history. President Ford issued a full and unconditional pardon to Nixon for any crimes he might […]
Nixon Resigns
On August 8, 1974, President Richard Nixon resigned from the presidency of the United States, marking a dramatic conclusion to the Watergate scandal that had engulfed his administration. The resignation came in the wake of mounting evidence and political pressure related to the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate complex and […]
Philippe Petit Walks on a Tightrope Between the Twin Towers
On August 7, 1974, Philippe Petit executed one of the most audacious and spectacular stunts in modern history by walking a tightrope between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City. This remarkable feat, which took place over 1,350 feet above the ground, captivated the world and cemented Petit’s reputation as […]
House Begins Impeachment of Nixon
The U.S. House of Representatives initiated formal impeachment proceedings against President Richard Nixon on July 27, 1974, amid the escalating Watergate scandal. These proceedings were a critical moment in American political history, highlighting the checks and balances inherent in the U.S. political system. The process underscored the principle that no one, not even the President, […]
First Item Scanned with a UPC Barcode
The first commercial scanning of an item with a Universal Product Code (UPC) barcode occurred on June 26, 1974, at a supermarket in Troy, Ohio. The item, a pack of Wrigley’s chewing gum, marked the beginning of an era that would revolutionize the retail industry and consumer behavior. Barcodes dramatically improved the efficiency of checkout […]
Hank Aaron Breaks Babe Ruth’s All-Time Home Run Record
Baseball legend Hank Aaron breaks Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record by hitting his 715th career home run during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, solidifying his place in baseball history. Aaron’s achievement, achieved amid racial prejudice and adversity, symbolizes perseverance, talent, and the enduring power of the sport to inspire and unite people.
Patty Hearst is Kidnapped by the Symbionese Liberation Army
A sensational event in the 1970s unfolded on February 4th, 1974, as heiress Patty Hearst was kidnapped by the Symbionese Liberation Army, eventually leading to her involvement in criminal activities.
President Richard Nixon Signs the Emergency Highway Energy Conservation Act
Facing an energy crisis, President Richard Nixon signed the Emergency Highway Energy Conservation Act on January 2nd, 1974. The act imposed a national speed limit and promoted energy-saving measures on highways.