1999
The euro became currency for 11 Member States of the European Union. Coins and notes were not available until January 1, 2002.
1994
North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) goes into effect.
1985
VH-1 made its broadcasting debut.
1959
Fidel Castro overthrew the government of Fulgencio Batista, and seized power in Cuba.
1950
Ho Chi Minh begins offensive against French troops in Indo China.
1942
The Declaration by United Nations is signed by twenty-six nations.
1934
Alcatraz Island officially became a Federal Prison.
1880
Building of Panama Canal begins.
1801
The Irish Parliament votes to join the Kingdom of Great Britain, forming the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland.
1724
Glassblower Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit proposes system for making thermometers and the Fahrenheit temperature scale.
0404
Last gladiator competition in Rome.