It happened on a… January 1

The euro became currency for 11 Member States of the European Union. Coins and notes were not available until January 1, 2002.

North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) goes into effect.

VH-1 made its broadcasting debut.

Fidel Castro overthrew the government of Fulgencio Batista, and seized power in Cuba.

Ho Chi Minh begins offensive against French troops in Indo China.

The Declaration by United Nations is signed by twenty-six nations.

Alcatraz Island officially became a Federal Prison.

Building of Panama Canal begins.

The Irish Parliament votes to join the Kingdom of Great Britain, forming the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland.

Glassblower Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit proposes system for making thermometers and the Fahrenheit temperature scale.

Last gladiator competition in Rome.