“Grease” Movie Soundtrack Earns Its Second #1 Hit
On August 26, 1978, the soundtrack for the film Grease achieved a significant milestone by earning its second #1 hit on the Billboard charts. The movie, which premiered earlier that summer, quickly became a cultural phenomenon, with its soundtrack playing a crucial role in its success. The soundtrack’s blend of upbeat rock and roll, catchy […]
Balloon Crosses the Atlantic
On August 17, 1978, a landmark achievement in aviation history occurred when a hot air balloon, the Double Eagle II, successfully crossed the Atlantic Ocean. Piloted by a team of three Americans—Ben Abruzzo, Maxie Anderson, and Larry Newman—the flight was a remarkable feat of endurance and skill. The balloon took off from Presque Isle, Maine, […]
World’s First “Test Tube” Baby Born
On July 25, 1978, Louise Brown, the world’s first baby conceived via in vitro fertilization (IVF), was born in Oldham, England. Her birth marked a monumental breakthrough in fertility treatments, offering hope to countless couples unable to conceive naturally. The success of this medical innovation had profound implications on reproductive technologies and ethics, sparking debates […]
First Rainbow Pride Flag Premieres
The first rainbow Pride flag was premiered at the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade on June 25, 1978. Designed by artist and activist Gilbert Baker, the flag featured eight colors, each with a distinct meaning, symbolizing diversity and acceptance. Although the original flag’s design was later simplified, it has become an internationally recognized emblem […]
The Tragic End of Aldo Moro
Former Italian Prime Minister Aldo Moro, after being kidnapped by the Red Brigades—a far-left terrorist group—was found dead on May 9, 1978. Moro’s abduction and subsequent murder shocked Italy and the world, exposing the extreme political tensions in Italy during the “Years of Lead.” His death not only had a profound impact on Italian politics […]
The Sweet Start of Ben & Jerry’s
On May 5, 1978, childhood friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield opened their first ice cream shop in a renovated gas station in Burlington, Vermont. Their commitment to using high-quality, local ingredients and creating unique flavors quickly won them a devoted following. Ben & Jerry’s would go on to become not just a wildly successful […]
Bob Marley Headlines One Love Peace Concert
On this day in 1978, Bob Marley performed at the One Love Peace Concert in Kingston, Jamaica, an event remembered for its iconic moment when Marley joined the hands of two rival political leaders on stage. Amidst political turmoil and violence, Marley’s music called for peace, love, and unity, leaving an indelible mark on the […]
Ken Warby
Ken Warby of Australia sets the world water speed record, 317.60 mph, at Blowering Dam in Australia; no other human has yet (2013) exceeded 300 mph on water and survived.
Camp David Accords
The Camp David Accords were signed, representing a significant step towards peace in the Middle East as Egypt and Israel normalized relations.
Earthquake
An earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter Scale rocks the city of Tabas in Iran. More than 11,000 people were killed during the natural disaster.