ON THIS DAY
What happened on October 4?
October 4 links a presidential birthday, the world’s first artificial satellite, a modern constitution, a landmark appeal for peace and a week devoted to space.
9 moments shown
Rutherford B. Hayes was born
Rutherford Birchard Hayes was born in Delaware, Ohio. He later served as the 19th president of the United States from 1877 to 1881.
Belgium declared independence
Belgium’s provisional government declared the country independent from the Netherlands during the Belgian Revolution.
The Orient Express began its first journey
The train later known worldwide as the Orient Express departed Paris on its inaugural journey toward Constantinople.
Sputnik 1 entered orbit
The Soviet Union launched Sputnik 1, the first artificial satellite, during the International Geophysical Year. Its radio signal could be heard by observers around the world.
France adopted the Constitution of the Fifth Republic
France’s new constitution strengthened the executive and established the framework that continues to govern the Fifth Republic.
Pope Paul VI addressed the United Nations
Paul VI became the first reigning pope to visit United Nations Headquarters and address the General Assembly, making an appeal for peace and disarmament.
Lesotho became independent
The former British protectorate of Basutoland became the independent Kingdom of Lesotho.
Mozambique’s General Peace Agreement was signed
The Mozambican government and RENAMO signed a General Peace Agreement in Rome, bringing a long civil war toward an end.
The United Nations declared World Space Week
The UN General Assembly established World Space Week for October 4–10, linking the launch of Sputnik with the date the Outer Space Treaty entered into force.
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