Major Events of 1974: Key Historical Moments You Need to Know

Every year brings its own set of pivotal moments that leave a lasting mark on history. From political shifts and technological advancements to cultural breakthroughs, these events shape the world and influence the future. In this comprehensive overview, we’ll explore the most significant occurrences from 1974, highlighting key moments that continue to impact our lives today.

Major Events of 1974 - Historical Moments That Defined the Year | TakeMeBack.to

01 Jan Mariner 10 Visits Mercury: The Mariner 10 spacecraft became the first probe to successfully visit and explore the planet Mercury, marking a significant milestone in space exploration and planetary research.
02 Jan National 55 MPH Speed Limit Implemented: United States President Richard Nixon signs a bill mandating a maximum national speed limit of 55 miles per hour, a strategic measure to conserve gasoline during the ongoing OPEC oil embargo.
03 Jan Burma's Constitutional Referendum Details: A comprehensive constitutional referendum for the Socialist Republic of the Union of Burma took effect, establishing a one-party regime. As part of the celebration, the government released 1,212 political prisoners while simultaneously detaining 1,028 others, highlighting the complex political dynamics.
04 Jan United States President Richard Nixon refuses to hand over materials subpoenaed by the Senate Watergate Committee.
05 Jan Lima, Peru Earthquake: A significant earthquake strikes Lima, Peru, resulting in six fatalities and causing extensive damage to hundreds of residential structures, highlighting the region's seismic vulnerability.
06 Jan Early Daylight Saving Time in the United States: In a direct response to the 1973 energy crisis, the United States begins daylight saving time nearly four months earlier than usual, aiming to reduce energy consumption during the oil shortage.
07 Jan Brian Faulkner Resigns from Ulster Unionist Party: Brian Faulkner, former Northern Ireland Prime Minister, resigned as the leader of the Ulster Unionist Party. His resignation followed the Party's January 4 rejection of the Sunningdale Agreement, a significant political moment in the context of Northern Ireland's complex political landscape during the Troubles.
08 Jan Sweden Implements Gasoline Rationing: In response to the 1973 oil crisis, Sweden began strict gasoline rationing, limiting private vehicles to 100 liters (26 U.S. gallons) between January 7 and February 28, demonstrating the global impact of energy shortages.
09 Jan Indonesian Jetliner Crash in Java Sea: A tragic aviation disaster occurred when an Indonesian jetliner crashed into the Java Sea shortly after takeoff from Jakarta. The catastrophic incident resulted in the loss of all 62 passengers and crew on board, marking a significant aviation safety event of the year.
10 Jan United States Implements National Speed Limit to Save Fuel: In response to the ongoing OPEC oil embargo, the United States federal government mandated a nationwide speed limit reduction to 55 miles per hour (89 km/h). This policy was designed to reduce fuel consumption during a period of significant energy crisis, demonstrating how transportation policies can be quickly adapted to address economic and resource challenges.
11 Jan Rosenkowitz Sextuplets Birth: The first known set of sextuplets to survive infancy were born to Susan Rosenkowitz in Cape Town, South Africa. The six children—David, Elizabeth, Emma, Grant, Jason, and Nicolette—represented a remarkable medical achievement in multiple birth survival.
12 Jan Libya and Tunisia Announce Merger: Libya and Tunisia officially announced their intention to merge and form the 'Islamic Arab Republic', a significant geopolitical event highlighting pan-Arab aspirations during the 1970s.
13 Jan Super Bowl VIII: Miami Dolphins Triumph: The Miami Dolphins defeated the Minnesota Vikings 24-7 in Super Bowl VIII, held in Houston, Texas. Running back Larry Csonka delivered an outstanding performance, earning the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award by rushing for 145 yards and scoring two touchdowns.
14 Jan World Football League founded.
15 Jan BTK Killer's First Murders: Dennis Rader, later known as the BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) Killer, committed his first known murders by killing Joseph and Joseph II Otero, along with Josephine and Julie Otero in their home, marking the beginning of a terrifying serial killing spree that would span decades.
16 Jan Jaws Novel Published: Peter Benchley's groundbreaking novel 'Jaws' was published, which would later inspire Steven Spielberg's iconic 1975 film that revolutionized the summer blockbuster genre.
17 Jan Joni Mitchell Releases Landmark Album 'Court and Spark': Joni Mitchell released 'Court and Spark', a pivotal album in her career that marked her most commercially successful and mainstream work to date. The album blended folk, jazz, and pop influences, showcasing Mitchell's evolving musical style and songwriting prowess.
18 Jan Israeli-Egyptian Disengagement Agreement: A significant diplomatic breakthrough occurred when Israel and Egypt signed a Disengagement of Forces agreement, effectively ending the active conflict on the Egyptian front of the Yom Kippur War. This landmark peace negotiation marked a crucial step towards reducing tensions in the Middle East and paved the way for future diplomatic relations.
19 Jan Notre Dame Ends UCLA's Historic Basketball Winning Streak: In a thrilling basketball game at South Bend, Indiana, Notre Dame defeated UCLA 71-70, dramatically ending the Bruins' unprecedented 88-game winning streak. This moment is considered one of the most significant upsets in college basketball history.
20 Jan China Gains Control of Paracel Islands: China successfully gained control of the Paracel Islands through a military engagement with South Vietnamese naval forces, marking a significant territorial dispute in the South China Sea.
21 Jan Precious Metals Price Records: On January 21, 1974, both gold and silver hit unprecedented price points in London: gold reached $161.31 per ounce, while silver peaked at $3.97 per ounce, signaling substantial economic uncertainty and potential inflationary pressures.
23 Jan Egyptian-Israeli Disengagement Agreement: A landmark diplomatic breakthrough in the Middle East peace process, where Egypt and Israel negotiated a significant disengagement agreement. Facilitated by U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, this diplomatic effort aimed to reduce tensions and establish a framework for potential future peace negotiations between the two nations.
24 Jan Pioneering Heterotopic Heart Transplant by Dr. Christiaan Barnard: Dr. Christiaan Barnard, a renowned South African cardiac surgeon, performed a groundbreaking heterotopic heart transplant. In this innovative surgical procedure, a donor heart was added to the patient's existing heart without removing the original organ, representing a significant advancement in cardiac medical techniques and transplantation science.
25 Jan Groundbreaking Heart Transplant by Christiaan Barnard: South African cardiac surgeon Christiaan Barnard performed a pioneering medical procedure by successfully transplanting a donor heart without removing the patient's original heart. This heterotopic heart transplant represented a significant milestone in cardiovascular surgical techniques, expanding the possibilities of organ transplantation and patient treatment.
26 Jan Bülent Ecevit Forms New Turkish Government: Bülent Ecevit of the Republican People's Party (CHP) forms the 37th government of Turkey, establishing a coalition partnership with the National Salvation Party (MSP).
27 Jan Brisbane River Catastrophic Flood: On January 27, 1974, the Brisbane River dramatically overflowed its banks, causing the most significant urban flooding event in Brisbane during the 20th century. The flood inundated large portions of the city, causing extensive property damage, displacing thousands of residents, and dramatically altering the city's urban landscape and disaster preparedness strategies.
28 Jan Ali-Frazier II: Legendary Boxing Rematch: The highly anticipated rematch between former heavyweight boxing champions Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier took place at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This fight was a significant event in boxing history, following their first epic encounter in 1971.
29 Jan 27th NHL All-Star Game: The 27th NHL All-Star Game was held at Chicago Stadium, featuring a competitive match between the Western and Eastern Divisions. The Western Division emerged victorious, defeating the Eastern Division 6-4 in an exciting display of hockey talent.
30 Jan 1974 State of the Union Address by Richard Nixon: President Richard Nixon delivered the 1974 State of the Union Address to the 93rd United States Congress. In his speech, he emphasized the complex challenges and opportunities facing America, discussing both domestic and international issues. Nixon highlighted the resilience of the American people and the nation's critical role in promoting global peace during a tumultuous period in U.S. history.
31 Jan Release of U.S. Civilian from China: The People's Republic of China released Gerald Emil Kosh, an American civilian who was captured during the Battle of the Paracel Islands. This diplomatic event occurred in the context of Cold War tensions and territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
01 Feb Tragic Joelma Building Fire in São Paulo: A devastating fire erupted in the 25-story Joelma Building in São Paulo, Brazil, resulting in 189 fatalities and 293 injuries. This catastrophic event highlighted significant urban fire safety concerns and led to major improvements in building safety regulations.
02 Feb F-16 Fighting Falcon's First Flight: The revolutionary F-16 Fighting Falcon, a cutting-edge fighter jet, completes its maiden flight, marking a significant moment in military aviation technology.
03 Feb Patty Hearst Kidnapping: Newspaper heiress Patricia Hearst was kidnapped by members of the Symbionese Liberation Army (SLA), a radical left-wing revolutionary group. This high-profile kidnapping would later become a complex and sensational case involving Stockholm syndrome and subsequent criminal activities by Hearst.
04 Feb M62 Coach Bombing: The Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) conducted a devastating terrorist attack by exploding a bomb on a bus carrying off-duty British Armed Forces personnel in Yorkshire, England. The bombing resulted in the tragic deaths of nine soldiers and three civilians, marking a significant moment in the Northern Ireland conflict.
05 Feb Deadly Bus Bombing in West Yorkshire: A Provisional Irish Republican Army bomb explodes on a bus in West Yorkshire, England, resulting in a tragic loss of life with nine soldiers and three civilians, including two children, killed, and 38 others injured.
06 Feb US House Begins Nixon Impeachment Proceedings: The United States House of Representatives commenced formal proceedings to determine potential grounds for the impeachment of President Richard Nixon, a pivotal moment in the Watergate scandal that would ultimately lead to Nixon's resignation.
07 Feb Symbionese Liberation Army Claims Responsibility for Patty Hearst Kidnapping: The American left-wing guerrilla group Symbionese Liberation Army (SLA) publicly claimed responsibility for the high-profile kidnapping of Patty Hearst, the daughter of wealthy publishing heir Randolph Hearst. This event became a sensational media story that captured national attention and highlighted the radical political activism of the era.
08 Feb Skylab 4 Mission Returns to Earth: The crew of Skylab 4, the final mission to visit the American space station Skylab, successfully returns to Earth after completing a record-breaking 84-day space mission. Astronauts Gerald Carr, Edward Gibson, and William Pogue landed in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 176 miles southwest of the U.S. coast, marking a significant milestone in early space exploration.
09 Feb Rare Submarine Combat: HMS Venturer Sinks U-864: In a remarkable naval engagement, HMS Venturer successfully sank the German submarine U-864 off the coast of Fedje, Norway. This incident represents an extremely rare instance of submarine-to-submarine combat, highlighting the strategic naval warfare tactics of World War II.
10 Feb Soviet Mars 4 Space Probe Mission: The Soviet Mars 4 space probe, launched in July 1973, successfully flew past Mars at a distance of approximately 1,300 miles (2,100 km), capturing valuable scientific imagery and contributing to space exploration knowledge.
11 Feb Kissinger's Project Independence: US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger unveiled the Nixon Administration's comprehensive seven-point 'Project Independence' plan, aimed at achieving US energy self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on foreign oil sources in response to global energy challenges.
12 Feb Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn's Exile from Soviet Union: Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, the renowned Nobel Prize-winning author known for his critical works exposing the Soviet gulag system, was forcibly exiled from the Soviet Union. This significant event highlighted the Soviet regime's intolerance of intellectual dissent and marked a pivotal moment in Cold War-era cultural and political history.
13 Feb Solzhenitsyn Exiled from Soviet Union: Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, the renowned Nobel Prize-winning author and prominent Soviet dissident, was forcibly expelled from the Soviet Union. The Soviet government stripped him of his citizenship and deported him to Frankfurt, West Germany, marking a significant moment in Cold War-era intellectual persecution.
14 Feb Northern Illinois University Shooting: A tragic mass shooting occurred at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb County, Illinois, where a gunman opened fire in a lecture hall, resulting in six fatalities, including the perpetrator. This incident represents one of the early campus shooting events in modern U.S. history.
15 Feb Seattle Slew Born: Seattle Slew, a legendary American racehorse who would go on to become one of the most celebrated thoroughbreds in racing history, was born. He would later win the Triple Crown in 1977 and be inducted into the Racing Hall of Fame.
16 Feb Filbert Bayi Sets 1500m World Record at Commonwealth Games: Tanzanian athlete Filbert Bayi made history by setting a new world record in the 1500 meters race at the 1974 British Commonwealth Games in Christchurch, New Zealand. His remarkable time of 3 minutes and 32.2 seconds was a significant achievement in track and field athletics, highlighting Tanzania's emerging prowess in international sports.
17 Feb Cairo Soccer Stadium Tragedy: A devastating human stampede occurred at a soccer match in Cairo, Egypt, resulting in 49 fatalities. The incident highlighted critical safety concerns in large public sporting events and crowd management failures.
18 Feb US Provides Substantial Economic Aid to India: US Ambassador to India Daniel Moynihan presented a significant economic assistance check of US$2,046,700,000, representing a major diplomatic and financial commitment to supporting India's economic development during the mid-1970s.
19 Feb Great Sitkin Volcanic Eruption: A significant volcanic eruption occurred at Great Sitkin volcano in Alaska, characterized by a rapid formation of a massive mushroom cloud reaching 10,000 to 12,000 feet within just four minutes. The eruption, reported at 6:58 p.m. BDT, produced a dirty white to light beige cloud and was accompanied by lava dome extrusion, lava flow, and continued steam and gas emissions in subsequent months.
20 Feb Gordie Howe Comes Out of Retirement: Hockey legend Gordie Howe made a remarkable comeback by returning to professional ice hockey, signing a groundbreaking $1 million contract with the Houston Aeros of the World Hockey Association (WHA), demonstrating his enduring skill and marketability.
21 Feb Kissinger's Tlatelolco Conference Address: U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger delivered a pivotal speech at the Conference of Tlatelolco in Mexico City, proposing a 'New Dialogue' among Western Hemisphere nations and articulating American diplomatic objectives for regional cooperation.
22 Feb Organisation of Islamic Conference Summit in Lahore: A significant diplomatic event occurred on February 22, 1974, when the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) summit convened in Lahore, Pakistan. The summit was notable for its broad participation, with thirty-seven countries represented and twenty-two heads of state and government in attendance. A key outcome was the conference's recognition of Bangladesh, marking an important moment in international diplomatic relations.
23 Feb Patty Hearst Kidnapping by Symbionese Liberation Army: Patty Hearst, daughter of publisher Randolph Hearst, was kidnapped by the radical left-wing Symbionese Liberation Army (SLA), marking a significant media and criminal event of the 1970s.
24 Feb Pakistan Recognizes Bangladesh: In a diplomatic milestone, Pakistan officially recognizes Bangladesh as an independent nation, formally acknowledging the sovereignty established after the 1971 Liberation War.
25 Feb First Issue of People Magazine Published: The inaugural issue of People magazine, post-dated March 4, 1974, was released and made available at newsstands and supermarkets across the United States. This marked the beginning of a popular weekly entertainment and human-interest magazine that would become a significant part of American media culture.
26 Feb A-10A Thunderbolt II Prototype Gun Test: On February 26, 1974, the A-10A Thunderbolt II prototype successfully fired its GAU-8/A Avenger rotary cannon during an in-flight test at Edwards Air Force Base. This was a significant milestone in the development of the iconic ground-attack aircraft known for its powerful anti-tank capabilities.
27 Feb United States Nuclear Test at Nevada Test Site: The United States conducted a nuclear weapons test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing its Cold War-era nuclear testing program. These underground nuclear tests were part of ongoing strategic and technological research during the nuclear arms race.
28 Feb US-Egypt Diplomatic Relations Restored: After a seven-year diplomatic hiatus, the United States and Egypt re-established diplomatic relations, marking a significant moment in Middle Eastern geopolitics and signaling a potential thaw in Cold War-era tensions.
01 Mar Watergate Scandal Indictments: Seven key figures involved in the Watergate scandal were indicted and charged with conspiracy to obstruct justice, representing a critical moment in the unraveling of the Nixon administration's illegal activities.
02 Mar Watergate Scandal: Nixon's Involvement Confirmed: A grand jury concluded that US President Richard Nixon was directly involved in the Watergate cover-up, marking a critical moment in the unfolding political scandal that would ultimately lead to his resignation.
03 Mar Turkish Airlines Flight 981 Crash in Paris: A catastrophic aviation disaster occurred when a Turkish Airlines DC-10 crashed near Paris, France, resulting in the death of all 346 passengers and crew aboard. This incident is considered the world's worst air disaster at the time, highlighting significant aviation safety concerns.
04 Mar Harold Wilson Becomes British Prime Minister: Harold Wilson returns to power as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, succeeding Edward Heath after a period of political transition. This marks a significant moment in British political history, with Wilson leading the Labour Party back into government.
05 Mar US Soldier Drives Tank into East Berlin: In a dramatic Cold War incident, U.S. Army Specialist William A. Thompson Jr. stole a 50-ton M60 tank from Turner Barracks in West Berlin, drove through Checkpoint Charlie into East Berlin, and caused significant chaos for 70 minutes, highlighting the tensions of the divided city.
06 Mar Chappell Brothers' Cricket Century Achievement: Australian cricket brothers Ian and Greg Chappell achieved a remarkable feat by scoring centuries in each innings of a Test match against New Zealand in Wellington, demonstrating exceptional batting prowess and sibling synchronicity.
07 Mar Watergate Scandal: Nixon White House Officials Indicted: Seven high-ranking officials from the Nixon White House were indicted for conspiring to obstruct the Watergate investigation. Notable individuals included former chief of staff H.R. Haldeman, top aide John Ehrlichman, and former attorney general John Mitchell. This event was a critical moment in the Watergate scandal that ultimately led to President Nixon's resignation.
08 Mar Turkish Airlines Flight 981 Crash: Turkish Airlines Flight 981, a McDonnell Douglas DC-10, tragically crashed in the Ermenonville Forest near Paris, resulting in the deaths of all 346 people on board. This catastrophic accident was one of the deadliest aviation disasters in history at the time, highlighting critical safety concerns in aircraft design and maintenance.
09 Mar Turkish Airlines Flight 981 Crash: On March 9, 1974, Turkish Airlines Flight 981 experienced a catastrophic accident near Paris, France. The DC-10 aircraft suffered an explosive decompression at nearly 23,000 feet, causing the rear cargo door to blow off. This tragic incident resulted in the deaths of all 346 passengers and crew members. Six passengers were ejected from the aircraft and fell to their deaths in a field near Saint-Pathus. The crash remains one of the deadliest aviation accidents in history.
10 Mar James Earl Ray Pleads Guilty to Martin Luther King Jr. Murder: James Earl Ray formally pleaded guilty to the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and was sentenced to 99 years in prison, marking a significant moment in the aftermath of the tragic 1968 murder.
11 Mar Turkish Airlines Flight 981 Disaster: A catastrophic aviation accident occurred when Turkish Airlines Flight 981 crashed in the woods near Ermenonville, a suburb of Paris, France. The crash resulted in the tragic loss of all 346 people aboard, making it one of the deadliest aviation accidents in history at that time.
12 Mar Donna Manson Disappearance: Donna Manson disappeared from Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington. She was later confirmed to be a victim of serial killer Ted Bundy, marking a tragic moment in the series of crimes committed by one of America's most notorious murderers.
13 Mar Charles de Gaulle Airport Opens: Charles de Gaulle Airport, a major international airport serving Paris, France, was officially inaugurated, becoming a critical transportation hub for the region and a significant infrastructure development.
15 Mar Brazilian Presidential Resignation: Brazilian President Emílio Garrastazu Médici resigns from office, marking a significant moment in Brazil's political transition during the military dictatorship period.
16 Mar Grand Ole Opry House Opens in Nashville: The first performance was held at the new Grand Ole Opry House located at Opryland in Nashville, Tennessee, marking a significant moment in country music history and venue development.
17 Mar Jane Blalock Wins LPGA Tournament: Professional golfer Jane Blalock secured victory at the LPGA Bing Crosby Golf Classic International, demonstrating her skill in women's professional golf.
18 Mar End of Arab Oil Embargo Against the United States: In a significant geopolitical development, most Arab oil-producing nations officially ended their five-month oil embargo against the United States, Europe, and Japan. This embargo, which was implemented in response to American support for Israel during the Yom Kippur War, had substantial economic and diplomatic implications for global energy markets and international relations.
19 Mar Jefferson Starship begins their first tour.
20 Mar Failed Kidnapping Attempt on Princess Anne: On March 20, 1974, Ian Ball attempted to kidnap Her Royal Highness Princess Anne and her husband Captain Mark Phillips while they were traveling along The Mall near Buckingham Palace in London. The dramatic incident involved Ball stopping their vehicle and attempting to abduct the royal couple. Despite his efforts, the kidnapping was thwarted through the brave intervention of police and bystanders, preventing what could have been a significant royal security breach.
21 Mar Turkish Airlines Flight 981 Disaster: A catastrophic aviation accident occurred when Turkish Airlines Flight 981, a DC-10 aircraft, experienced a fatal explosive decompression near Paris. The crash killed all 346 passengers and crew, making it one of the deadliest aviation accidents in history. The explosive event occurred at nearly 23,000 feet, causing the rear cargo door to blow off and sending six passengers to their deaths before the plane crashed into a forest at 487 miles per hour.
22 Mar Hiroo Onoda Surrenders After 29 Years: Imperial Japanese Army second lieutenant Hiroo Onoda formally surrendered in the Philippines, ending his 29-year-long guerrilla warfare campaign. Unaware that World War II had ended in 1945, Onoda was finally informed by his former commanding officer, Major Yoshimi Taniguchi. He ceremonially presented his battle sword to Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, symbolizing the conclusion of his extraordinary wartime mission.
23 Mar Hiroo Onoda's Surrender: Imperial Japanese Army second lieutenant Hiroo Onoda officially surrendered on this day, ending an extraordinary 29-year period of continued military service in the Philippines. Unaware that World War II had ended in 1945, Onoda had been faithfully following his last military orders, hiding in the jungle and continuing guerrilla-style resistance. His surrender, facilitated by his former commanding officer, became a remarkable symbol of Japanese military discipline and loyalty.
24 Mar Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Begins: One of the most catastrophic environmental disasters in U.S. history commenced when the oil tanker Exxon Valdez ran aground in Prince William Sound, Alaska. The incident resulted in an unprecedented ecological catastrophe, with approximately 11 million gallons of crude oil spilling into a pristine 45-mile stretch of marine and coastal habitat, causing massive environmental damage and long-lasting ecological consequences.
25 Mar Turkish Airlines Flight 981 Disaster: A catastrophic aviation accident occurred when Turkish Airlines Flight 981 crashed in the dense woods near Ermenonville, a suburb of Paris, France. The tragic incident resulted in the complete loss of all 346 passengers and crew members aboard, marking one of the deadliest aviation disasters in history at that time.
26 Mar Chipko Movement Begins in India: Gaura Devi leads 27 women from Laata village in the Garhwal Himalayas to protect trees by forming human circles, marking the birth of the influential Chipko environmental conservation movement in India.
27 Mar Deadliest Aviation Disaster in French History: Turkish Airlines Flight 981 suffered a catastrophic crash in the wooded area near Ermenonville, a Paris suburb, resulting in the complete loss of all 346 passengers and crew. This tragic event became one of the most significant aviation accidents of the 1970s, highlighting critical aircraft design and safety concerns.
28 Mar Tubarão River Catastrophic Flooding in Brazil: A devastating flood in the Tubarão River in Santa Catarina, Brazil, resulted in 199 fatalities and displaced approximately 45,000 people, causing widespread destruction and humanitarian crisis.
29 Mar Nixon Refuses to Release Watergate Tapes: In a critical moment of the Watergate scandal, U.S. President Richard Nixon defied the Senate investigative committee by refusing to hand over crucial audio recordings that could potentially reveal his involvement in the political cover-up.
30 Mar Hiroo Onoda Surrenders After 29 Years: Imperial Japanese Army Second Lieutenant Hiroo Onoda officially surrendered in the Philippines, ending an extraordinary 29-year period of continued military service after World War II had concluded. Onoda had been following his last orders to continue fighting, unaware that the war had ended decades earlier, symbolizing remarkable dedication and isolation.
01 Apr Ayatollah Khomeini Calls for Islamic Republic: Ayatollah Khomeini publicly advocated for the establishment of an Islamic Republic in Iran, a pivotal moment in the country's political transformation that would later lead to the Iranian Revolution.
02 Apr Death of French President Georges Pompidou: Georges Pompidou, the President of France, passed away in Paris at the age of 62. His death marked a significant moment in French political history, as he had served as President from 1969 to 1974.
03 Apr 1974 Super Outbreak: Most Violent Tornado Event in US History: On April 3, 1974, a massive and unprecedented tornado outbreak occurred across 13 U.S. states and Ontario, Canada. The event was characterized by an extraordinary number of 148 tornadoes, with 30 classified as F4 or F5 intensity - the most violent tornado outbreak ever recorded at that time. The devastation was immense, resulting in 319 fatalities, over 6,000 injuries, and widespread destruction across multiple states.
04 Apr Super Outbreak Tornado Disaster: The Super Outbreak was one of the most devastating tornado events in North American history, with 148 tornadoes sweeping across the Midwestern, southern, and eastern United States and Ontario, Canada. The catastrophic event resulted in over $1 billion in damage and tragically claimed 330 lives, making it a significant natural disaster of the 20th century.
05 Apr World Trade Center Opens in New York City: The World Trade Center, then the world's tallest building standing at 110 stories, was officially opened in New York City. This architectural marvel would become an iconic symbol of American economic power and urban engineering until its tragic destruction on September 11, 2001.
06 Apr California Jam Rock Concert: A massive rock concert called 'California Jam' was held at the Ontario Motor Speedway in Ontario, California, attracting approximately 250,000 fans. The event featured legendary bands including Earth, Wind & Fire, Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, and Emerson, Lake & Palmer, making it one of the most significant rock music events of 1974.
07 Apr Hank Aaron Ties Babe Ruth's Home Run Record: Baseball legend Hank Aaron of the Atlanta Braves hit his 714th career home run in a closely contested game against the Cincinnati Reds, equaling the legendary Babe Ruth's all-time home run record. This momentous achievement was a significant milestone in baseball history, symbolizing Aaron's extraordinary athletic prowess and challenging the racial barriers of professional sports.
08 Apr Hank Aaron Breaks Babe Ruth's Home Run Record: On April 8, 1974, Hank Aaron of the Atlanta Braves made baseball history by hitting his 715th career home run, breaking Babe Ruth's long-standing record of 714 home runs. The historic moment occurred at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium, where Aaron hit the record-breaking home run off Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Al Downing, marking a significant milestone in Major League Baseball and symbolizing a breakthrough moment for African American athletes.
09 Apr Nixon Visits Tornado-Devastated Xenia, Ohio: President Richard Nixon traveled to Xenia, Ohio, to personally assess the catastrophic damage caused by the deadly F5 tornado that struck the town on April 3, 1974. During his visit, Nixon was visibly shocked by the extensive destruction, describing the scene as 'the worst that I have seen.' The tornado was part of the historic Super Outbreak, which produced 148 tornadoes across 13 states in just 18 hours, making it one of the most significant tornado events in U.S. history.
10 Apr Yitzhak Rabin Succeeds Golda Meir: Yitzhak Rabin replaced Golda Meir as the Prime Minister of Israel, signaling a significant leadership transition in Israeli politics during a complex geopolitical period.
11 Apr Kiryat Shmona Massacre: The Kiryat Shmona massacre occurred in Israel, a tragic event involving loss of civilian lives. This incident was part of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and had significant geopolitical implications.
12 Apr U.S. Ninth Army Crosses Elbe River During World War II: During the final stages of World War II, the U.S. Ninth Army under General William H. Simpson successfully crossed the Elbe River near Magdeburg, advancing to Tangermünde, which was strategically positioned only 50 miles from Berlin. This significant military maneuver represented a critical moment in the Allied advance towards defeating Nazi Germany, demonstrating the precision and strategic capability of American forces in the European theater.
13 Apr Hank Aaron Breaks Babe Ruth's Home Run Record: In a historic moment for baseball, Hank Aaron of the Atlanta Braves hit his 715th career home run during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, surpassing Babe Ruth's long-standing home run record. This achievement was a landmark moment in sports history, symbolizing racial progress and athletic excellence.
14 Apr Elton John's 'Bennie and the Jets' Tops US Charts: Elton John's hit song 'Bennie and the Jets' from his album 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road' reached the number one position on the US Billboard charts on April 14, 1974.
15 Apr Military Coup in Niger: A military coup in Niger resulted in the overthrow of President Diori Hamani, marking a significant political transition in the West African nation.
16 Apr Watergate Scandal: Special Prosecutor Subpoenas White House Tapes: Special Prosecutor Leon Jaworski issued a critical subpoena demanding 64 White House tapes as part of the ongoing Watergate investigation, escalating legal pressure on the Nixon administration and marking a pivotal moment in the unfolding political scandal.
17 Apr Fall of Phnom Penh to Khmer Rouge: The Cambodian capital Phnom Penh falls to the Khmer Rouge under Pol Pot's leadership, marking the beginning of one of the most brutal genocidal regimes in modern history, which would systematically murder millions of Cambodians.
18 Apr Red Brigades Kidnap Italian Prosecutor Mario Sossi: On April 18, 1974, the Red Brigades, a notorious left-wing terrorist organization in Italy, kidnapped Mario Sossi, a prominent Italian prosecutor. This event was part of the group's strategy of political violence and intimidation during the 'Years of Lead', a period of social and political turmoil in Italy characterized by far-left and far-right extremist activities.
19 Apr Sri Lankan Government Suppresses Press Freedom: Under Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike's leadership, the Sri Lankan government closed down 13 newspapers using the Press Council Act, significantly restricting media freedom and freedom of expression.
20 Apr Paul McCartney Releases 'Band on the Run' Album: Paul McCartney and Wings released their critically acclaimed album 'Band on the Run', which would become one of the most successful albums of McCartney's post-Beatles career. The album featured hit singles like the title track and 'Jet', and was recorded under challenging circumstances in Lagos, Nigeria.
21 Apr 28th Tony Awards Honors Broadway Excellence: The 28th Tony Awards celebrated outstanding achievements in theater, with 'River Niger' and 'Raisin' emerging as notable winners, highlighting the vibrant Broadway scene of 1974.
22 Apr Barbara Walters Breaks Ground in Television News: On April 22, 1974, Barbara Walters made history by becoming the first female co-anchor of the Today Show, a groundbreaking moment for women in broadcast journalism. Her appointment represented a significant milestone in television news representation and gender equality in media.
23 Apr Golda Meir Resigns as Israeli Prime Minister: Golda Meir resigns as Prime Minister of Israel and leader of the Israeli Labor Party, triggering a leadership election within the party and marking a significant political transition in Israeli governance.
24 Apr Stasi Spy Scandal in West German Government: Günter Guillaume, a close aide to West German Chancellor Willy Brandt, was exposed as a Stasi spy, leading to a significant political crisis. The investigation into Guillaume's espionage activities began on April 24, 1974, ultimately resulting in his exposure and having major implications for West German politics during the Cold War.
25 Apr Carnation Revolution in Portugal: A pivotal military coup that overthrew the authoritarian Estado Novo government, marking a significant transition to democracy. The revolution was uniquely peaceful, with civilians distributing carnations to soldiers, symbolizing the bloodless nature of the political transformation. The Armed Forces Movement (MFA) strategically took control of key infrastructure like radio stations and airports, ultimately forcing the resignation of Marcelo Caetano.
26 Apr Malta Adopts New Constitution: On April 26, 1974, Malta officially adopted its new constitution, marking a significant milestone in the country's political development and governance structure.
27 Apr Anti-Nixon Impeachment Protest in Washington, D.C.: Approximately 10,000 protesters gathered in Washington, D.C., demanding the impeachment of US President Richard Nixon in the wake of the Watergate scandal. This demonstration reflected growing public dissatisfaction with Nixon's administration and the escalating political crisis.
28 Apr Mário Soares Returns to Portugal: Mário Soares, the exiled leader of Portugal's banned Socialist Party, dramatically returned to Lisbon by train after years of political exile in Paris. His return was a significant moment in Portugal's transition from dictatorship to democracy, symbolizing the end of the oppressive Estado Novo regime.
29 Apr Nixon's Watergate Tapes Release: President Richard Nixon announced he would release edited transcripts of White House tape recordings related to the Watergate scandal, a pivotal moment in the ongoing investigation that would ultimately lead to his resignation.
30 Apr Nixon Releases Watergate Tape Transcripts: On April 30, 1974, United States President Richard Nixon handed over partial transcripts of the controversial Watergate tape recordings to congressional investigators. These edited transcripts were part of the ongoing investigation into the Watergate scandal, which had been threatening Nixon's presidency. The release was a significant moment in the unfolding political crisis that would ultimately lead to Nixon's resignation.
01 May Closure of Tarrafal Concentration Camp: Portugal officially closed the notorious Tarrafal concentration camp, located on Santiago Island in Cape Verde. This camp had been a symbol of colonial oppression, where hundreds of Portuguese and African political prisoners were previously confined under harsh conditions. The closure represented a critical step in dismantling the Portuguese colonial system and acknowledging past human rights violations.
02 May UVF Bombing in Belfast: A tragic sectarian attack occurred in Belfast during the height of the Northern Ireland conflict, known as 'The Troubles'. The Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF), a loyalist paramilitary group, detonated a bomb at the Rose & Crown Bar on Ormeau Road, resulting in the deaths of six Catholic civilians and injuring eighteen others. This violent incident exemplified the brutal nature of the sectarian conflict that plagued Northern Ireland during this period.
03 May Political Prisoners Released in Mozambique: By order of the new Portuguese government, colonial administrators of Mozambique released 554 political prisoners from Machava Prison. The release was supervised by Colonel Antonio Maria Rebelo, the new head of the colonial police. On the same day, Portugal also closed the Tarrafal concentration camp in Cape Verde, which had previously confined hundreds of Portuguese and African political prisoners for life.
04 May First Women's 8,000-Meter Mountain Summit: A groundbreaking all-female Japanese mountaineering team successfully reached the summit of Manaslu in Nepal, becoming the first women to climb an 8,000-meter peak. This achievement was a landmark moment for women in high-altitude mountaineering, challenging gender barriers in extreme sports.
05 May First Women's Expedition to Summit Manaslu: An all-female Japanese mountaineering team successfully summited Manaslu in Nepal, becoming the first women to climb an 8,000-meter (26,000 ft) peak, marking a significant milestone in women's mountaineering history.
06 May Willy Brandt Resigns as West German Chancellor: West German Chancellor Willy Brandt resigned amidst a major political scandal involving his aide Günter Guillaume, who was revealed to be an East German spy working for the Stasi (East German secret service). This unexpected resignation marked a significant moment in Cold War-era German politics.
07 May Willy Brandt Resigns as West German Chancellor: West German Chancellor Willy Brandt presented his resignation to President Gustav Heinemann after his personal assistant, Günter Guillaume, was discovered to be a spy for East Germany. This dramatic resignation was a significant moment in Cold War-era German politics, highlighting the intense espionage tensions between East and West.
08 May Closure of Tarrafal Concentration Camp: Portugal closed the Tarrafal concentration camp located on Santiago Island in Cape Verde, which had historically confined hundreds of Portuguese and African political prisoners, symbolizing the end of an oppressive era.
09 May Watergate Scandal: Nixon Impeachment Hearings Begin: On May 9, 1974, the United States House of Representatives Judiciary Committee officially opened public impeachment hearings against President Richard M. Nixon. This marked a critical moment in American political history, as the committee began a formal investigation into the president's potential involvement in the Watergate scandal, which had been unfolding since the 1972 break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters.
10 May Closure of Tarrafal Concentration Camp: Portugal closed the notorious Tarrafal concentration camp, which had previously confined hundreds of Portuguese and African political prisoners for life, marking an important moment in the decolonization process.
11 May Willy Brandt Resigns as West German Chancellor: West German Chancellor Willy Brandt resigns following a major political scandal involving his aide Günter Guillaume, who was revealed to be an East German spy working for the Stasi (State Security Service). This dramatic resignation highlighted the intense espionage tensions during the Cold War and significantly impacted West German politics.
12 May Italy's Landmark Divorce Referendum: In a significant social and political moment, Italian voters overwhelmingly supported maintaining the right to divorce, reflecting progressive social attitudes and challenging traditional conservative views.
13 May US Senate Rejects Minimum Wage Opt-Out Bill: In a significant legislative moment, the United States Senate voted against a bill proposed by Senator Bob Dole of Kansas that would have allowed individual states to opt out of the federal minimum wage law. The bill was decisively rejected with 29 votes in favor and 51 votes against, maintaining federal labor standards across the nation.
14 May Ulster Workers Council Strike Begins: On May 14, 1974, the Ulster Workers Council (UWC) initiated a significant industrial strike in Northern Ireland, protesting against the Sunningdale Agreement. This politically motivated work stoppage was a critical moment in the Northern Ireland conflict, challenging the power-sharing arrangement between unionist and nationalist communities and highlighting the deep political tensions of the era.
15 May Ma'alot Massacre: A tragic terrorist attack by the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP) at an Israeli school in Ma'alot, where armed militants took hostages and resulted in the devastating deaths of 31 people, including 22 innocent schoolchildren. This horrific event highlighted the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the brutal tactics employed by extremist groups.
16 May Helmut Schmidt Becomes German Chancellor: Helmut Schmidt was elected as the Chancellor of West Germany following Willy Brandt's resignation due to a spy scandal in his administration. Hans-Dietrich Genscher from the FDP party became vice chancellor and foreign minister.
17 May Dublin and Monaghan Bombings: The Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) conducted a coordinated terrorist attack in the Republic of Ireland, detonating four bombs in Dublin and Monaghan. The devastating attack resulted in 33 civilian deaths and 300 injuries, marking one of the deadliest days during the period known as The Troubles.
18 May Rubik's Cube First Publicly Demonstrated: Hungarian inventor Ernő Rubik publicly demonstrates his revolutionary puzzle cube at the Ideal Toy Corp. showroom in Budapest, introducing what would become one of the most famous and challenging toys in history.
19 May French Presidential Election: Valéry Giscard d'Estaing wins the French presidential election, defeating François Mitterrand in a closely contested race with less than 425,000 votes separating the candidates out of more than 26 million votes cast.
20 May Soyuz 14 Space Mission Return: Soyuz 14, a Soviet spacecraft, successfully completed its mission and returned to Earth on May 20, 1974. The spacecraft was part of the Soviet Union's space exploration program during the Cold War era, carrying cosmonauts who conducted scientific experiments and observations in low Earth orbit.
21 May Political Prisoner Release in Mozambique: Following the political changes in Portugal, colonial administrators in Mozambique released 554 political prisoners from Machava Prison. This significant action, supervised by Colonel Antonio Maria Rebelo, marked an important moment in the decolonization process and human rights progression in Mozambique.
22 May US Nuclear Test in Nevada: The United States conducted a nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing its Cold War-era nuclear weapons research and development program. These tests were part of ongoing efforts to maintain and advance nuclear capabilities during a tense period of international relations.
23 May Mario Sossi Released by Red Brigades: Italian magistrate Mario Sossi was freed by the Red Brigades, a far-left terrorist organization active in Italy during the 'Years of Lead'. This event highlighted the intense political tensions and kidnapping tactics used by radical groups during this period.
24 May Death of Duke Ellington: Legendary jazz composer, bandleader, and pianist Duke Ellington passed away from cancer at the age of 75, marking the end of an era in American music history. Ellington was a pivotal figure in the development of jazz and big band music, known for his innovative compositions and influential role in the Harlem Renaissance.
25 May UWC Strike in Northern Ireland: A Constitutional Crisis: In a pivotal moment for Northern Ireland, the Ulster Workers' Council (UWC) strike escalated from an industrial dispute into a profound political and social conflict. The strike challenged the power-sharing agreement between Protestant and Catholic communities and threatened the region's stability. British Prime Minister Harold Wilson intervened, highlighting the critical importance of maintaining democratic processes and constitutional governance during this tense period.
26 May Duke Ellington Funeral: Mourners have been filing past the casket of legendary jazz composer and bandleader Duke Ellington, who passed away on Friday, marking the end of an era in American music history.
27 May Valéry Giscard d'Estaing Presidential Inauguration: Valéry Giscard d'Estaing was inaugurated as President of France at the Élysée Palace. His inaugural address, lasting just four minutes, was notably one of the shortest in French presidential history, symbolizing a concise and direct approach to leadership.
28 May Sunningdale Agreement Collapses: The power-sharing Sunningdale Agreement in Northern Ireland collapsed following a general strike by loyalists, further complicating the region's political landscape.
29 May Direct Rule Imposed in Northern Ireland: On May 29, 1974, the United Kingdom government suspended the Northern Ireland Assembly and imposed direct rule from Westminster. This significant political decision came in the wake of the Ulster Workers' Council Strike, which had effectively paralyzed the power-sharing government established by the Sunningdale Agreement. The direct rule marked a critical moment in Northern Ireland's complex political history, reflecting the deep sectarian tensions and challenges of governance during the Troubles.
30 May Portuguese Political Prisoner Release in Mozambique: Following the Carnation Revolution, the new Portuguese government orders the release of 554 political prisoners from Machava Prison in Mozambique, signaling a significant shift in colonial policy and human rights.
31 May Syria-Israel Disengagement Agreement: Syria and Israel sign a diplomatic agreement to resolve tensions following the Yom Kippur War, marking a significant step towards reducing regional conflict in the Middle East.
01 Jun Heimlich Maneuver Published: Dr. Henry Heimlich publishes the groundbreaking technique for rescuing choking victims in Emergency Medicine journal, introducing a life-saving method that would become standard in first aid worldwide.
02 Jun Coronation of King Jigme Singye Wangchuck of Bhutan: In a grand Buddhist ceremony held in Thimphu, Jigme Singye Wangchuck was formally crowned as the King of Bhutan, succeeding his predecessor and beginning a significant era in the Himalayan kingdom's royal history.
03 Jun Yitzhak Rabin Forms New Israeli Government: On June 3, 1974, Yitzhak Rabin replaced Golda Meir as Prime Minister of Israel, forming a new government during a critical period in the nation's political history. This transition marked a significant moment in Israeli leadership following Meir's resignation.
04 Jun During Ten Cent Beer Night, inebriated Cleveland Indians fans start a riot, causing the game to be forfeited to the Texas Rangers.
06 Jun Sweden Becomes Parliamentary Monarchy: Sweden officially adopts a new Instrument of Government, transforming its political system to a parliamentary monarchy, which significantly modernizes the country's constitutional framework.
07 Jun Flixborough Chemical Plant Disaster: A catastrophic explosion occurred at the Nypro chemical fertilizer factory near Flixborough, North Lincolnshire, resulting in 28 fatalities and 36 serious injuries. The incident highlighted significant industrial safety concerns and led to major reviews of chemical plant safety protocols.
08 Jun Significant Tornado Outbreak in Southern Great Plains and Upper Midwest: On June 8, 1974, a devastating tornado outbreak swept through portions of the southern Great Plains and Upper Midwest. The event was particularly severe, producing 36 tornadoes, with at least 19 classified as significant or intense. This outbreak became the second-deadliest June tornado event in Oklahoma's history, resulting in 16 deaths statewide. The most destructive tornado was an F4 that struck Drumright, Oklahoma, killing 14 people, with 12 fatalities in the town itself. Another deadly F4 tornado hit Emporia, Kansas, causing six additional fatalities.
09 Jun Death of Miguel Ángel Asturias: Miguel Ángel Asturias, renowned Guatemalan novelist, poet, and Nobel Prize in Literature laureate, passed away. Known for his magical realist works that explored Latin American social and political themes, Asturias was a pivotal figure in 20th-century literature.
10 Jun First World Environment Day: The inaugural World Environment Day was celebrated globally, marking a significant milestone in raising international awareness about environmental protection, sustainability, and ecological challenges facing the planet.
11 Jun Northrop YF-17 Technological Milestone: The Northrop YF-17 A 72-01569 achieved a significant aviation milestone by becoming the first American fighter aircraft to break the sound barrier in level flight without using afterburner, showcasing advanced aerodynamic and propulsion technologies.
12 Jun Deadly Chemical Plant Explosion in England: A catastrophic chemical plant explosion in England resulted in 28 fatalities and 36 serious injuries, underscoring the critical importance of industrial safety protocols and emergency response mechanisms.
13 Jun IMF Establishes Oil Facility: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) established a special 'oil facility' to provide loans to nations experiencing severe economic challenges due to escalating oil prices during the 1970s energy crisis.
14 Jun Billboard Top Hit: Billy Don't Be a Hero: On June 14, 1974, the number-one hit song in the United States was 'Billy Don't Be a Hero' by Bo Donaldson and The Heywoods, according to the music charts for the week of June 10th to June 16th. This pop song, which tells a story about a soldier during wartime, was a significant musical moment of the mid-1970s.
15 Jun Ray Stevens' 'The Streak' Tops UK Pop Chart: Ray Stevens' comedic novelty song 'The Streak' reached the number one position on the UK pop music chart, reflecting the song's widespread popularity during the mid-1970s. The humorous track capitalized on the cultural phenomenon of public streaking that was prevalent during that era.
16 Jun Björn Borg Wins First French Open Grand Slam: Swedish tennis prodigy Björn Borg achieved a remarkable victory at the French Open Men's Tennis tournament, defeating Manuel Orantes of Spain in a dramatic five-set match with scores of 2-6, 6-7, 6-0, 6-1, 6-1. This win marked Borg's first Grand Slam title and signaled the beginning of his legendary tennis career.
17 Jun Provisional IRA Bombing of Houses of Parliament: On June 17, 1974, the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) conducted a terrorist bombing attack on the Houses of Parliament in London. The explosion resulted in 11 people being injured and caused significant structural damage to the historic government building. This attack was part of the broader conflict known as 'The Troubles' in Northern Ireland.
18 Jun Death of Georgi Zhukov, Legendary Soviet Marshal: Georgi Zhukov, one of the most prominent and successful military commanders of World War II, passed away at the age of 78. Known for his strategic brilliance during critical battles against Nazi Germany, including the defense of Moscow and the Battle of Stalingrad, Zhukov was a key figure in the Soviet Union's military history.
19 Jun Enhanced Security at British Parliament: Following a bomb explosion that injured 11 people, British Parliament implemented extensive security measures to protect government officials and prevent potential future attacks.
20 Jun United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea: The United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea commenced, marking the largest international diplomatic gathering in history up to that point. The conference aimed to establish comprehensive international maritime regulations and territorial sea boundaries.
21 Jun Francine Irving Neff Becomes US Treasurer: Francine Irving Neff was appointed as the 35th Treasurer of the United States, taking office on June 21, 1974. As a high-ranking government official, she played a significant role in overseeing the financial operations and management of the United States Treasury during a pivotal period in American history, marked by economic challenges and political transitions following the Watergate era.
23 Jun First Extraterrestrial Message Transmission: Humanity achieved a significant milestone in space communication by sending the first intentional extraterrestrial message from Earth into outer space, marking a pivotal moment in interstellar communication efforts.
24 Jun India's Lowest Test Cricket Total at Lord's: In a historic and embarrassing moment for Indian cricket, the national team was dismissed for a mere 42 runs in just 17 overs during the 2nd Test match against England at Lord's. This performance marked the lowest total in India's Test cricket history. English bowlers Chris Old (5-21) and Geoff Arnold (4-19) were instrumental in the comprehensive defeat.
26 Jun First Universal Product Code (UPC) Scan in Retail History: On June 26, 1974, a groundbreaking moment in retail technology occurred when the Universal Product Code (UPC) was first scanned to sell a package of Wrigley's chewing gum at the Marsh Supermarket in Troy, Ohio. This event marked the beginning of modern barcode technology, revolutionizing inventory management and checkout processes worldwide.
27 Jun Nixon's Diplomatic Visit to Soviet Union: U.S. President Richard Nixon traveled to the Soviet Union, continuing his policy of détente and diplomatic engagement during the Cold War era. This visit was part of ongoing efforts to reduce tensions and improve relations between the United States and the Soviet Union.
28 Jun Mikhail Baryshnikov Defects from Soviet Union: Renowned ballet dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov dramatically defected from the Soviet Union while on tour with the Kirov Ballet in Toronto, Canada. His bold escape was motivated by artistic restrictions and the desire for creative freedom, marking a significant cultural and political moment during the Cold War era.
29 Jun Mikhail Baryshnikov Defects to the West: Renowned ballet dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov dramatically defected from the Soviet Union to Canada while on tour with the Kirov Ballet, symbolizing artistic freedom and Cold War-era cultural tensions.
30 Jun Death of Vannevar Bush: Vannevar Bush, a pioneering American engineer, scientist, and influential technological administrator, passed away. Bush was instrumental in organizing scientific research during World War II and played a crucial role in developing the atomic bomb and advancing American technological capabilities.
01 Jul General Pinochet Becomes President of Chile: General Augusto Pinochet assumes the presidency of Chile, marking a significant moment in the country's political history following the military coup against Salvador Allende.
02 Jul Soviet Media Censorship Challenges American Networks: American news networks (ABC, CBS, and NBC) encountered significant Soviet censorship while attempting to transmit stories about internal dissidence. ABC was particularly impacted when trying to broadcast an interview with prominent Soviet dissident nuclear physicist Andrei Sakharov from a Moscow TV studio. The networks had collectively invested $281,000 in satellite transmission efforts, highlighting the challenges of international journalism during the Cold War era.
03 Jul Pitching in major league-record 13th consecutive game for Dodgers
04 Jul Northern Ireland Constitutional White Paper: The UK's Northern Ireland Office published a significant white paper titled 'The Northern Ireland Constitution', proposing elections to a body aimed at developing a political settlement for the country during a period of intense sectarian conflict known as 'The Troubles'.
05 Jul Wimbledon Women's Singles Championship: Chris Evert wins the 81st Wimbledon Women's Tennis Singles title, defeating Olga Morozova in a memorable match, further solidifying her status as a tennis legend of the 1970s.
06 Jul 88th Wimbledon Mens Tennis: Jimmy Connors beats K Rosewall
07 Jul West Germany Wins 1974 FIFA World Cup: West Germany defeated the Netherlands 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup final held in Munich, securing their first World Cup championship in a thrilling match.
08 Jul Supreme Court Orders Nixon to Release Watergate Tapes: In a landmark unanimous decision, the United States Supreme Court ruled that President Richard Nixon must surrender the Watergate tapes to investigators, marking a critical moment in the Watergate scandal. This ruling significantly undermined Nixon's presidential authority and set a crucial precedent for executive accountability, ultimately contributing to his resignation later that year.
09 Jul Death of Earl Warren, Influential Supreme Court Chief Justice: Earl Warren, a pivotal figure in American judicial history, passed away on July 9, 1974, at the age of 83. As the 14th Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court (1953-1969), Warren led one of the most transformative periods in the Court's history. He was instrumental in landmark civil rights decisions, including the groundbreaking Brown v. Board of Education (1954), which declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. Warren's tenure was characterized by a progressive interpretation of the Constitution that advanced individual rights and social justice.
10 Jul OPEC Ends Oil Boycott Against Netherlands: The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) officially terminated its oil embargo against the Netherlands, marking a significant diplomatic and economic resolution in the ongoing energy tensions of the 1970s.
11 Jul Watergate Inquiry Evidence Released: The US House Judiciary Committee publicly released critical evidence in the ongoing Watergate investigation, marking a pivotal moment in the process that would ultimately lead to President Richard Nixon's resignation.
12 Jul Conviction of John Ehrlichman in Watergate-Related Case: Former White House aide John Ehrlichman and three other defendants were convicted of conspiring to violate the civil rights of Daniel Ellsberg's psychiatrist. This conviction was a significant development in the ongoing Watergate scandal, highlighting the legal consequences for Nixon administration officials involved in unethical and illegal activities.
13 Jul Gary Player Wins 1974 British Open Golf Championship: Gary Player, the renowned South African golfer, secured a dominant victory at the 103rd British Golf Open held at Royal Lytham. He demonstrated exceptional skill by leading every round of the 72-hole tournament and being the only player to finish under par consistently. Player completed the tournament with a total score of 282 strokes, finishing four strokes ahead of his closest competitor, Peter Oosterhuis, who scored 286.
14 Jul Ted Bundy Kidnaps Two Women at Lake Sammamish: On this day, serial killer Ted Bundy abducted Janice Ott and Denise Naslund from Lake Sammamish State Park in Washington, marking a critical moment in his notorious killing spree. These disappearances were part of a series of brutal crimes that would later shock the nation.
15 Jul Nixon Impeachment Process Advances: The House Judiciary Committee votes to recommend impeachment proceedings against U.S. President Richard Nixon, marking a critical moment in the Watergate scandal.
16 Jul Cyprus Coup d'État of 1974: On July 16, 1974, a significant political upheaval occurred when the National Guard, led by Greek officers, staged a military coup against the legitimate government of Cyprus, overthrowing President Makarios III. This event was part of a broader geopolitical conflict involving tensions between Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities, ultimately leading to the island's division.
17 Jul France Conducts Nuclear Test at Mururoa Atoll: France performs a nuclear test at Mururoa Atoll in French Polynesia, continuing its nuclear weapons testing program in the Pacific region, which was controversial due to environmental and geopolitical concerns.
18 Jul CIA's Secret Submarine Recovery Mission Begins: The USNS Hughes Glomar Explorer, a covert CIA vessel disguised as a deep-sea drillship, initiated a classified mission to recover the sunken Soviet submarine K-129 in the Pacific Ocean. This mission, shrouded in Cold War secrecy, represented a complex intelligence operation.
19 Jul Turkish Invasion of Cyprus: Turkey launches a military invasion of Cyprus, establishing the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, a significant geopolitical event that would reshape the island's political landscape and international relations.
20 Jul Turkish Invasion of Cyprus: Turkish military forces invade Cyprus following a coup d'état organized by the Greek military dictatorship against President Makarios. This complex geopolitical conflict leads to significant regional tensions, with Syria and Egypt placing their militaries on high alert. The invasion results in the de facto partition of Cyprus, with lasting diplomatic and humanitarian consequences.
21 Jul Nixon Impeachment Articles Approved: The House Judiciary Committee approves two Articles of Impeachment against President Richard Nixon, marking a critical moment in the Watergate scandal and presidential accountability.
22 Jul Supreme Court Orders Nixon to Release Watergate Tapes: On July 22nd, 1974, in a landmark decision that would significantly impact American political history, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ordered President Richard Nixon to release the Watergate tapes. This ruling was a critical moment in the Watergate scandal, compelling Nixon to provide audio recordings that would ultimately reveal his involvement in the cover-up of the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters. The decision marked a crucial test of presidential power and the principle that no individual, not even the President, is above the law.
23 Jul Fall of Greek Military Dictatorship: The Greek military junta collapsed after seven years of authoritarian rule, marking the end of a significant period of political oppression. Former Prime Minister Konstantinos Karamanlis was invited to lead the new government, initiating Greece's metapolitefsi (political transition) era. The collapse was precipitated by the Turkish invasion of Cyprus and led to immediate democratic reforms, including releasing political prisoners, granting amnesty, and restoring citizenship to those previously disenfranchised.
24 Jul Supreme Court Orders Nixon to Surrender Watergate Tapes: In a landmark legal decision, the United States Supreme Court unanimously ruled that President Richard Nixon did not have executive privilege to withhold subpoenaed White House tapes related to the Watergate scandal. The Court ordered Nixon to surrender the tapes to the Watergate special prosecutor, a pivotal moment that would ultimately lead to his resignation.
25 Jul Barbara Jordan's Historic Impeachment Speech: On July 25, 1974, Barbara Jordan, a groundbreaking African American congresswoman from Texas, delivered a powerful and eloquent speech to the House Judiciary Committee regarding the Watergate scandal. Her passionate address was a pivotal moment in American political history, articulating the constitutional principles at stake during the potential impeachment of President Richard Nixon.
26 Jul Greece Transitions to Civil Government: Greek Prime Minister Constantinos Karamanlis forms the country's first civil government after seven years of military rule, marking a significant democratic restoration in Greece following a period of authoritarian military control.
27 Jul Kanhai and Jameson add 465 for 2nd wicket, Warwickshire vs. Gloucs
28 Jul Formation of Spetsgruppa A (Alpha Group): On July 28, 1974, the Soviet Union established Spetsgruppa A, an elite special forces unit of the KGB designed for high-risk counter-terrorism and special operations. This highly trained group would become one of the most renowned special forces units in the world, known for its precision and strategic capabilities.
29 Jul Nixon Impeachment Proceedings: The House Judiciary Committee conducted its second impeachment vote against President Richard Nixon, signaling the escalating Watergate scandal and potential presidential removal.
30 Jul Nixon Releases Watergate Recordings: In a pivotal moment of the Watergate scandal, U.S. President Richard Nixon was compelled by the Supreme Court of the United States to release subpoenaed White House recordings, marking a critical turning point in the investigation of presidential misconduct.
31 Jul Gold Ownership Legalization Act of 1974: On July 31, 1974, the United States Congress passed landmark legislation that granted the president the authority to legalize private ownership of gold. This significant economic policy change effectively ended the decades-long prohibition on private gold ownership that had been in place since President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Executive Order 6102 in 1933, which had criminalized private gold possession during the Great Depression.
01 Aug UN Creates Green Line in Cyprus: The United Nations Security Council authorized the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) to establish the 'Green Line', a buffer zone that effectively divided the island of Cyprus into two distinct zones. This demarcation was a critical intervention to prevent further conflict between Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities following the 1974 Cyprus dispute.
02 Aug Roberta Flack's R&B Hit: 'Feel Like Makin' Love' by Roberta Flack topped the R&B charts, highlighting the significant contributions of African American artists to popular music in the 1970s.
03 Aug Italicus Express Train Bombing: A devastating terrorist attack occurred on the Italicus Express train traveling between Italy and West Germany, resulting in 12 fatalities and 48 injuries. The bombing was claimed by Italian neo-fascist groups, highlighting the political tensions and extremist violence of the era.
04 Aug Italicus Express Train Bombing: A terrorist bombing occurred on the Italicus Express train near San Benedetto Val di Sambro, Italy, resulting in 12 fatalities and 22 injuries. This tragic event was part of a period of political violence in Italy known as the 'Years of Lead'.
05 Aug Watergate Scandal: Nixon's 'Smoking Gun' Tape Released: In a pivotal moment of the Watergate scandal, President Richard Nixon was compelled by the US Supreme Court to release the infamous 'Smoking Gun' tape from June 23, 1972. The recording provided irrefutable evidence of Nixon's direct involvement in covering up the Watergate break-in and obstructing subsequent investigations. This revelation led to an immediate and complete collapse of Nixon's political support, setting the stage for his unprecedented resignation.
06 Aug Nixon's Defiance During Watergate Impeachment Proceedings: On August 6, 1974, President Richard Nixon informed his cabinet that he would not resign despite mounting political pressure and imminent impeachment proceedings. This pivotal moment marked a critical point in the Watergate scandal, with Nixon refusing to step down despite overwhelming evidence of his involvement in illegal activities.
07 Aug Philippe Petit's World Trade Center High-Wire Walk: French high-wire artist Philippe Petit performed an extraordinary and unauthorized tightrope walk between the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, suspended 1,368 feet (417.0 metres) above the ground. This daring and illegal performance became a legendary artistic feat that captured global imagination and was later immortalized in the Academy Award-winning documentary 'Man on Wire'.
08 Aug Nixon Resignation Address: President Richard Nixon, in a nationwide television address, announces his resignation from the office of the President of the United States, effective at noon the following day. This historic moment marked the culmination of the Watergate scandal, which had eroded public trust and political support for Nixon's presidency.
09 Aug Nixon Resignation and Ford Presidency: Richard Nixon resigns as the 37th President of the United States due to the Watergate scandal, marking the first time in U.S. history a sitting president has resigned. Vice President Gerald Ford is immediately sworn in as the 38th President, effectively ending the Nixon administration and a tumultuous period in American political history.
10 Aug Judy Rankin wins LPGA Colgate-European American Golf Open
11 Aug Coup in East Timor: A political coup occurred in East Timor, marking a significant moment in the region's complex political history. This event likely involved the UDT (Timorese Democratic Union) and represented a critical turning point in East Timor's struggle for independence.
12 Aug Gruesome Discovery in Uganda: Police uncovered the dismembered body of Kay Adroa, a former wife of Ugandan President Idi Amin, highlighting the violent political climate of the time.
13 Aug Soviet Underground Nuclear Test: On August 13, 1974, the Soviet Union conducted an underground nuclear test, continuing its strategic nuclear weapons development program during the height of the Cold War arms race. These tests were part of the ongoing nuclear capabilities expansion and technological competition with the United States.
14 Aug Turkish Invasion of Cyprus: Turkey launched its second military intervention in Cyprus, strategically occupying 37% of the island's territory in response to the ongoing Greek-Cypriot conflict, dramatically altering the geopolitical landscape of the region.
15 Aug President Park Chung-hee Survives Assassination Attempt: South Korean President Park Chung-hee narrowly escaped an assassination attempt during the Liberation Day ceremony, an event that underscored the volatile political climate of the time.
17 Aug Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Elected as President of India: On August 17, 1974, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed was democratically elected as the fifth President of India, defeating rival candidate Tridib Chaudhuri through the electoral vote system. Ahmed would go on to serve as President during a critical period in Indian political history, including the Emergency period under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
18 Aug Provisional IRA Prison Escape: Nineteen incarcerated members of the Provisional IRA dramatically escaped from Portlaoise Prison in County Laois, Republic of Ireland. This significant prison break highlighted the ongoing tensions and conflict in Northern Ireland during the Troubles period.
20 Aug Nelson Rockefeller Becomes Vice President: Nelson Rockefeller was sworn in as the 41st Vice President of the United States, following his appointment by President Gerald Ford after Spiro Agnew's resignation. He was the second person to become Vice President under the 25th Amendment.
23 Aug South Korean Political Reform: President Park Chung Hee of South Korea rescinded two controversial decrees that had previously authorized the arrest of political dissidents, marking a potential softening of his authoritarian regime's stance on political opposition.
24 Aug Australian Pilots' Strike Disrupts Canberra Travel: The Australian Federation of Air Pilots imposed a nationwide pilot ban, causing significant travel disruptions in Canberra. The strike stranded thousands of passengers, including prominent political figures like Bob Hawke, who was forced to return home via a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) aircraft.
26 Aug Charles Lindbergh Dies: Charles Lindbergh, the legendary American aviator famous for his historic solo transatlantic flight in 1927, passed away at his home in Hawaii at the age of 72. His death marked the end of an era for early 20th-century aviation pioneers.
27 Aug Otto Strasser Returns to Germany: Otto Strasser, an early member of the Nazi Party who was expelled and fled to Canada after his brother Gregor's murder, returned to Germany in 1955. His complex political history reflects the tumultuous period of Nazi Germany and its aftermath.
28 Aug President Ford's First Press Conference Post-Watergate: President Gerald Ford held his inaugural press conference as the newly appointed President of the United States, addressing numerous lingering questions and concerns related to the Watergate scandal that had recently led to Richard Nixon's resignation.
29 Aug Soviet Underground Nuclear Test at Novaya Zemlya: The Soviet Union conducted an underground nuclear weapons test at the Novaya Zemlya test site in the Arctic Ocean, continuing its nuclear weapons development and testing program during the Cold War era.
30 Aug Mitsubishi Headquarters Bombing in Tokyo: A powerful terrorist bombing at the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries headquarters in Marunouchi, Tokyo, Japan, results in 8 fatalities and 378 injuries. Eight left-wing activists were subsequently arrested on May 19, 1975, in connection with the attack.
31 Aug Pirate Radio Veronica Relocates to Scheveningen Harbor: On August 31, 1974, the famous Dutch pirate radio station Radio Veronica relocated its operations to Scheveningen harbor. This move was significant in the history of offshore broadcasting, as pirate radio stations challenged traditional media regulations and played a crucial role in the cultural and musical landscape of the Netherlands during the 1960s and 1970s.
01 Sep SR-71 Blackbird Sets Incredible Speed Record: The legendary SR-71 Blackbird, an advanced reconnaissance aircraft, set a remarkable speed record by flying from New York to London in just 1 hour, 54 minutes, and 56.4 seconds. The aircraft achieved an astonishing speed of 1,435.587 miles per hour (2,310.353 km/h), demonstrating the pinnacle of aerospace engineering and Cold War technological innovation.
02 Sep Employee Retirement Income Security Act Signed: President Gerald Ford signed the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), a landmark legislation establishing minimum standards for pension plans in private industry. This act provided crucial protections for workers' retirement benefits and set new guidelines for pension fund management.
03 Sep Oscar Robertson Retires from NBA: Oscar Robertson, a legendary NBA guard known for his exceptional all-around play and groundbreaking contributions to professional basketball, announced his retirement after a remarkable career.
04 Sep George H. W. Bush Appointed RNC Chairman: On September 4, 1974, U.S. President Gerald Ford appointed George H. W. Bush as the Chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC). This strategic appointment came at a critical time following the Watergate scandal, signaling the Republican Party's efforts to rebuild its image and leadership.
05 Sep Bicentennial Reconvening of First Continental Congress: A commemorative two-day event was held at Carpenters' Hall in Philadelphia, marking the bicentennial of the First Continental Congress. Governors from 12 of the 13 original American colonies attended, with Massachusetts Governor Francis Sargent absent due to a political campaign. U.S. President Gerald Ford delivered a keynote speech at the concluding banquet, emphasizing the historical significance of the original congressional gathering.
06 Sep President Ford's Busy Day of Meetings and Diplomatic Engagements: U.S. President Gerald Ford had a full day of high-level political activities. He met with Vice President-designate Rockefeller and Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, and chaired a National Security Council meeting with key cabinet members. In the evening, he delivered an address to approximately 1,500 distinguished guests at Independence Hall, including Members of Congress, Governors, Chief Justices, and business leaders from the original thirteen states.
07 Sep Anti-Desegregation Busing Rally in Boston: Approximately 4,000 people gathered at Boston City Hall Plaza for a rally against desegregation busing, sponsored by Restore Our Alienated Rights (R.O.A.R.). The intense protest escalated to the point where U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy was chased and pelted with tomatoes and eggs, reflecting the deep racial tensions of the era.
08 Sep Nixon Presidential Pardon: President Gerald Ford grants a full pardon to former President Richard Nixon for all federal crimes potentially committed during his presidency, effectively ending the legal proceedings related to the Watergate Scandal.
09 Sep Anti-Japanese Protests in Seoul: Tensions between South Korea and Japan escalated as a crowd attacked the Japanese Embassy in Seoul, breaking windows, removing the Japanese flag, and setting a car on fire. Police responded with tear gas, reflecting ongoing historical and diplomatic tensions.
10 Sep Soyuz-Apollo Test Flight: The first joint space mission between the United States and Soviet Union, marking a significant milestone in international space cooperation during the Cold War era. This historic flight symbolized a thawing of tensions and demonstrated the potential for collaborative scientific exploration.
11 Sep Eastern Air Lines Flight 212 Tragedy: Eastern Air Lines Flight 212, a DC-9 jet traveling from Charleston to Chicago, crashed while attempting to land in foggy conditions at Charlotte, North Carolina. The devastating accident resulted in the deaths of 69 passengers and two crew members, highlighting the critical importance of aviation safety and weather-related risks.
12 Sep Ethiopian Imperial Regime Overthrown: Emperor Haile Selassie, a pivotal figure in Ethiopian history and revered as the 'Messiah' of the Rastafari movement, was deposed by a military coup led by the Derg (Provisional Military Administrative Council). This event dramatically ended his 58-year reign, marking a significant political transformation in Ethiopia and signaling the conclusion of the imperial era.
13 Sep Soviet Nuclear Test at Semipalatinsk: The Soviet Union conducted a nuclear test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in northeast Kazakhstan, continuing its nuclear weapons development program during the Cold War era.
14 Sep Nelson's Landing Marina Flash Flood Tragedy: A devastating flash flood struck Nelson's Landing Marina in Nevada, resulting in the tragic loss of 10 human lives. The sudden and powerful water surge completely destroyed the marina, highlighting the destructive potential of rapid water events in vulnerable geographical areas.
15 Sep Air Vietnam Flight Hijacking and Crash: Air Vietnam Flight 727 was hijacked and subsequently crashed while attempting to land, resulting in the tragic loss of 75 passengers and crew members. The incident highlights the volatile security challenges facing aviation during the mid-1970s.
16 Sep Ford Announces Vietnam War Deserter Amnesty: President Gerald Ford announces a conditional amnesty program for American Vietnam War deserters, offering a path for draft evaders and military personnel who went AWOL to return to society through alternative service.
17 Sep Camp David Accords Signed: Egyptian President Anwar El Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin signed the historic Camp David Accords, a pivotal diplomatic agreement that laid the groundwork for future peace negotiations between Egypt and Israel. These accords were a significant milestone in Middle Eastern diplomacy, representing a breakthrough in Arab-Israeli relations.
18 Sep Hurricane Fifi Devastates Honduras: Hurricane Fifi struck Honduras with catastrophic 110 mph winds, causing massive destruction and resulting in approximately 5,000 fatalities. This natural disaster was one of the deadliest hurricanes in Honduran history, leaving widespread devastation in its wake.
19 Sep Francisco Franco Resumes State Duties: On September 19, 1974, Spanish Generalissimo Francisco Franco was medically cleared to resume his official duties as Head of the Spanish State, after temporarily delegating powers to Prince Juan Carlos de Borbón on July 19. This event signaled Franco's continued political control during the late stages of his authoritarian regime, just a year before his eventual death.
20 Sep Unprecedented Congressional Inspection of Fort Knox Gold Reserves: On September 23, 1974, Members of Congress conducted a groundbreaking inspection of the U.S. gold stocks stored at the Fort Knox Bullion Depository. This event was remarkable because it broke the long-standing tradition of prohibiting visitors to this highly secure facility, offering rare transparency into the nation's gold reserves.
21 Sep Mariner 10 Second Mercury Flyby: The US spacecraft Mariner 10 successfully completed its second fly-by of the planet Mercury, continuing its groundbreaking mission to explore and photograph the closest planet to the Sun. This mission was critical in expanding humanity's understanding of Mercury's surface and characteristics.
22 Sep Nazi Massacre in Vinnytsia: During World War II, on the Jewish New Year Day, the German SS committed a horrific war crime by systematically murdering 6,000 Jews in Vinnytsia, Ukraine. This event represents one of the many genocidal actions carried out by Nazi forces during the Holocaust, demonstrating the brutal ethnic persecution of Jewish populations.
23 Sep Congressional Inspection of Fort Knox Gold Reserves: A historic examination of the United States' gold supply at the Fort Knox Bullion Depository, marking a rare moment of transparency in national financial infrastructure.
24 Sep Ford-Callaghan International Diplomatic Meeting: President Gerald R. Ford met with James Callaghan, the British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, in the Oval Office. The high-level diplomatic discussion covered critical international topics including the Cyprus situation and ongoing economic policies.
25 Sep Ozone Layer Destruction Discovery: Scientists first reported the critical finding that freon gases from aerosol sprays were causing significant damage to the Earth's protective ozone layer, marking a pivotal moment in environmental awareness and eventual global environmental policy changes.
26 Sep United States Nuclear Test in Nevada: On September 26, 1974, the United States conducted a nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing Cold War-era weapons development and testing programs. This underground nuclear test was part of ongoing strategic nuclear research and development during the height of the Cold War tensions.
27 Sep Fourth Bishop Synod Convenes in Rome: From September 27 to October 26, 1974, the Fourth Bishop Synod was held in Rome, bringing together Catholic Church leaders to discuss important ecclesiastical matters and strategic directions for the global Catholic community.
28 Sep First Lady Betty Ford's Breast Cancer Surgery: First Lady Betty Ford undergoes a radical mastectomy, publicly sharing her breast cancer diagnosis and raising national awareness about the disease and women's health.
29 Sep S-67 Blackhawk Helicopter Prototype Crash: A tragic accident occurred at the Farnborough airshow when the prototype of the U.S. Army S-67 Blackhawk attack helicopter crashed, resulting in the fatal deaths of test pilots Stewart Craig and Kurt Cannon.
30 Sep Public Reaction to Nixon Presidential Pardon: The American public continued to express significant controversy and divided opinions regarding President Gerald Ford's unprecedented decision to grant a full, unconditional pardon to former President Richard Nixon for any potential Watergate-related crimes. The pardon, issued on September 8, 1974, sparked widespread debate about presidential accountability, justice, and the nation's healing process following the tumultuous Watergate scandal.
01 Oct Watergate Cover-Up Trial Begins: The high-profile Watergate cover-up trial commenced in Washington, DC, marking a pivotal moment in American political history. Former Nixon administration officials were put on trial for their roles in the Watergate scandal, which had led to President Richard Nixon's resignation just months earlier. The trial would expose the depth of political corruption and abuse of power within the Nixon administration.
02 Oct Hank Aaron Hits Final Home Run in Atlanta Braves Career: Baseball legend Hank Aaron, a future Hall of Fame right fielder, hit his 733rd career home run during his final at-bat in the National League. The milestone occurred during a decisive 13-0 victory against the Cincinnati Reds, marking the end of an extraordinary chapter in his remarkable baseball journey.
03 Oct Watergate Trial Commences: The landmark Watergate trial begins, marking a critical moment in American political history. This trial would expose widespread corruption in the Nixon administration and ultimately lead to significant reforms in political accountability.
04 Oct Deng Xiaoping's Political Comeback: Deng Xiaoping, a prominent Chinese political leader who had been marginalized during the Cultural Revolution, was reinstated as Vice Premier of the People's Republic of China. This appointment, approved by Premier Zhou Enlai and Communist Party Chairman Mao Zedong, marked a significant turning point in Deng's political career and would later lead to his transformative leadership of China.
05 Oct First Verified Global Foot Journey: Dave Kunst completes the first verified circumnavigation on foot, returning to his hometown of Waseca, Minnesota. After leaving on June 20, 1970, he traveled approximately 14,450 kilometers (8,980 miles), overcoming significant personal tragedy after his brother John was killed by bandits in Afghanistan in 1972.
06 Oct OPEC Oil Crisis Begins: The global energy landscape dramatically shifted as the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) announced a significant increase in oil prices and implemented an oil embargo targeting the United States and the Netherlands, marking the beginning of the 1970s World Energy Crisis.
07 Oct German DR amends constitution
08 Oct Franklin National Bank Collapse: The Franklin National Bank collapsed on October 8, 1974, due to extensive fraud and financial mismanagement. At the time, this event represented the largest bank failure in United States banking history, signaling significant vulnerabilities in the financial regulatory system of the mid-1970s.
09 Oct Oscar Schindler: Holocaust Hero: Oscar Schindler, a German industrialist, courageously saved over 1,000 Jews from Nazi extermination during World War II by employing them in his factories, effectively protecting them from the Holocaust. His remarkable story of moral heroism was later immortalized in Steven Spielberg's film 'Schindler's List'.
10 Oct United Kingdom Parliamentary Elections: Elections were held for all 635 seats of the House of Commons. The Labour Party, led by Prime Minister Harold Wilson, increased its parliamentary majority to 319 seats, defeating the Conservative Party led by former Prime Minister Edward Heath, who lost 20 seats. The Conservative Party held 277 seats, while the Liberal Party finished third with a reduced representation of 13 seats.
11 Oct Guildford Pub Bombing: The Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) conducted a terrorist attack by bombing two pubs in Guildford, Surrey, England, which were known to be frequented by British Army personnel. The devastating attack resulted in five fatalities and left 54 people injured, representing a significant escalation of violence during the Northern Ireland conflict.
12 Oct U.S. Air Force Reconnaissance Aircraft Disappearance: A U.S. Air Force Lockheed WC-130H weather reconnaissance aircraft, designated *Swan 38*, vanished after departing Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. The aircraft was carrying a crew of six, and the circumstances of its disappearance remained unclear.
13 Oct Sinatra: The Main Event Concert: Frank Sinatra performed an iconic concert at Madison Square Garden, delivering 11 songs in a televised event broadcast throughout the Western Hemisphere. The concert, titled *Sinatra: The Main Event*, was a significant musical and media moment of the era.
14 Oct UN Recognition of Palestinian Liberation Organization: The United Nations General Assembly officially recognized the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) as the legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. This landmark decision granted the PLO the right to participate in General Assembly deliberations concerning Palestinian issues, marking a significant moment in international diplomacy and Palestinian self-determination.
15 Oct Federal Elections Campaign Act of 1974 Signed: President Gerald Ford signed the Federal Elections Campaign Act, a landmark piece of legislation that significantly reformed campaign finance regulations. The act introduced crucial transparency measures by limiting campaign spending and mandating disclosure of financial contributions.
16 Oct Riots at Long Kesh Maze Prison in Belfast: A significant disturbance occurred at the Long Kesh Maze prison in Belfast, resulting in violent riots and fires. Three prison staff members were hospitalized, and dozens of prisoners sustained injuries during the incident. The event highlights the intense tensions and volatile conditions within Northern Ireland during the period of the Troubles.
17 Oct President Ford Testifies Before House Judiciary Committee: In an unprecedented move, President Gerald Ford testified before the House Judiciary Committee, providing a detailed statement about his pardon of former President Richard Nixon and answering committee members' questions. This was the first time a sitting U.S. President had testified before this committee.
18 Oct NBA Historic Performance: Nate Thurmond's Quadruple Double: Chicago Bulls' Nate Thurmond made NBA history by becoming the first player ever to record a quadruple double, achieving 22 points, 14 rebounds, 13 assists, and 12 blocks in a single game.
19 Oct Niue Gains Self-Governance: Niue officially became a self-governing colony of New Zealand, marking a significant milestone in the Pacific island nation's political development and relationship with New Zealand.
20 Oct First Broadcast of Derrick TV Series: The popular German crime television series 'Derrick' premiered on ZDF (Zweites Deutsches Fernsehen), marking the beginning of a long-running and influential detective show that would become a staple of German television programming. The series, featuring detective Horst Tappert as Oberkommissar Derrick, would go on to become internationally renowned and broadcast in numerous countries.
21 Oct New York Islanders' First Shutout: Goaltender Billy Smith achieved the first shutout in New York Islanders history, leading the team to a dominant 5-0 victory against the Washington Capitals at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
22 Oct Venezuela Nationalizes Oil Industry: Venezuelan President Carlos Andres Perez announced a landmark decision to nationalize the country's oil industry, a significant move that would dramatically reshape Venezuela's economic and geopolitical landscape. This action transferred control of oil resources from international corporations to the Venezuelan government, marking a pivotal moment in Latin American economic sovereignty.
23 Oct IRA Time Bomb Explosion: On October 23, 1974, an Irish Republican Army (IRA) time bomb detonated, contributing to the ongoing period of political violence known as 'The Troubles' in Northern Ireland.
24 Oct Billy Martin Wins AL Manager of the Year: Billy Martin was named the American League Manager of the Year for his leadership of the Texas Rangers, marking a significant achievement in his baseball coaching career.
25 Oct First Air-Launched ICBM Test: The United States Air Force successfully conducted a groundbreaking test by firing an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) from an aircraft over the Pacific Ocean, near the Southern California coast. This milestone demonstrated advanced strategic missile deployment capabilities, expanding the potential launch platforms for nuclear deterrence.
26 Oct Muhammad Ali's Triumphant Ring Return: Legendary boxer Muhammad Ali made a remarkable comeback to professional boxing after a three-year absence, defeating Jerry Quarry. This event symbolized Ali's resilience and marked a significant moment in sports history, following his controversial suspension for refusing military draft during the Vietnam War.
27 Oct John Lennon's 'Walls & Bridges' Album Release: Apple Records released John Lennon's fifth studio album, 'Walls & Bridges,' in the United Kingdom. The album featured the chart-topping single 'Whatever Gets You Through the Night' (a collaboration with Elton John) and the introspective track '#9 Dream'.
28 Oct Salvador Dali Museum Inauguration: Surrealist master Salvador Dali attends the grand opening of his dedicated museum in his hometown of Figueres, Spain, celebrating his extraordinary artistic legacy.
29 Oct Equal Credit Opportunity Act Prohibits Discrimination: The United States Congress passed a landmark law banning discrimination based on sex or marital status in credit applications, significantly advancing financial equality for women. This legislation prevented banks and financial institutions from denying credit or imposing different terms solely based on gender or marital condition, marking a critical milestone in women's economic rights.
30 Oct Rumble in the Jungle Boxing Match: The historic 'Rumble in the Jungle' boxing match between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman took place in Kinshasa, Zaire (now Democratic Republic of Congo). In a stunning upset, Muhammad Ali defeated the heavily favored George Foreman by knockout in the 8th round, reclaiming the World Heavyweight Boxing Championship. This fight is considered one of the most significant sporting events of the 20th century, showcasing Ali's strategic 'rope-a-dope' technique and his remarkable boxing prowess.
31 Oct Ronald Clark O'Bryan Murders Son: On Halloween, Ronald Clark O'Bryan, an American optician from Deer Park, Texas, committed a horrific crime by murdering his 8-year-old son Timothy by poisoning him with cyanide. This shocking act of familial violence became known as the 'Candy Man' murder.
01 Nov UN Affirms Cyprus Independence: The United Nations officially affirms and recognizes the independence of Cyprus, a significant moment in the island's post-colonial history.
02 Nov Tragic Seoul Nightclub Fire: A devastating fire at the Time Go-Go Club in Seoul, South Korea results in 78 fatalities. The tragedy was compounded by the club's criminal negligence, with doors being barred, forcing six victims to jump to their deaths from the seventh floor to escape the flames.
03 Nov Tragic Seoul Fire at Daewang Corner Building: A devastating early-morning fire at the Daewang Corner building in the Dongdaemun District of Seoul resulted in a catastrophic loss of life. The fire killed 88 people and injured 35, with the majority of victims trapped in the Time Go-Go Club on the sixth floor. Witnesses reported that club employees had locked the exit door to prevent customers from leaving without paying, leading to a horrific scenario where 13 people were trapped in hotel rooms on the seventh floor, with six ultimately jumping to their deaths in desperation.
05 Nov Federal Elections Campaign Act Signed: President Gerald Ford signs the Federal Elections Campaign Act of 1974, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at reforming campaign finance and increasing transparency in political funding.
06 Nov Soviet Luna 23 Lunar Mission: The Soviet Union successfully landed the Luna 23 lunar probe in the Mare Crisium region of the Moon, continuing their ambitious lunar exploration program. The mission's primary objective was to collect and return lunar soil samples to Earth, contributing to scientific understanding of lunar geology.
07 Nov 63rd Davis Cup: South Africa beats India in
08 Nov Carol DaRonch Escapes Ted Bundy: In a remarkable act of survival, Carol DaRonch narrowly escapes attempted abduction by serial killer Ted Bundy in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her quick thinking and resistance help her avoid becoming another victim of one of America's most notorious serial killers.
10 Nov Montreal Canadiens Historic Shutout: The Montreal Canadiens delivered a dominant performance, shutting out the Washington Capitals with an overwhelming 11-0 victory, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive strength.
11 Nov Maria Callas' Legendary Final Public Performance: Operatic soprano Maria Callas, one of the most celebrated and influential classical singers of the 20th century, made her final public appearance in Sapporo, Japan. This moment marked the end of an extraordinary career that revolutionized opera performance and interpretation.
12 Nov South Africa Suspended from UN General Assembly: On November 12, 1974, the United Nations General Assembly voted to suspend South Africa due to its discriminatory apartheid policies. This significant diplomatic action was a strong international condemnation of the racist system of institutionalized racial segregation and white supremacy that had been enforced in South Africa since 1948. The suspension marked a critical moment in the global struggle against racial discrimination and highlighted the international community's rejection of apartheid.
13 Nov Amityville Horror Murders: Ronald DeFeo Jr. commits a horrific familicide, murdering all six members of his family while they slept in their home at 112 Ocean Avenue in Amityville, New York. This shocking crime would later become the basis for the infamous 'Amityville Horror' story, capturing public imagination and spawning numerous books and films.
15 Nov Ringo Starr Releases 'Goodnight Vienna' Album: Ringo Starr released his album 'Goodnight Vienna' and the single 'Only You' in the United Kingdom. This album was part of Starr's solo career following the breakup of The Beatles, featuring collaborations with various musicians and produced by John Lennon.
16 Nov Historic Interstellar Radio Message Sent from Arecibo: The Arecibo radio telescope transmitted a groundbreaking interstellar radio message towards the M13 Great Globular Cluster, a pioneering moment in human communication with potential extraterrestrial civilizations. This message, traveling at the speed of light, is expected to reach its destination around the year 27,000, symbolizing humanity's first deliberate attempt to communicate beyond our solar system.
17 Nov Ford's Anti-Inflation Campaign: President Gerald Ford launches the 'Whip Inflation Now' (WIN) campaign, a public initiative aimed at combating the high inflation rates affecting the United States economy during the mid-1970s, encouraging citizens to take personal economic actions.
19 Nov Palestine Liberation Organization Gains UN Observer Status: On November 19, 1974, the United Nations General Assembly granted the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) observer status, marking a significant diplomatic milestone for Palestinian representation in international forums. This decision recognized the PLO as a legitimate representative of the Palestinian people and provided them a platform to voice their political aspirations on the global stage.
20 Nov US Antitrust Suit Against AT&T: On November 20, 1974, the United States Department of Justice filed a critical antitrust lawsuit against AT&T Corporation. This legal action would ultimately lead to the landmark breakup of AT&T and its Bell System, fundamentally reshaping the telecommunications industry in the United States and paving the way for increased competition and innovation.
21 Nov Birmingham Pub Bombings: On November 21, 1974, the Provisional IRA conducted a devastating terrorist attack in Birmingham, England, bombing two pubs and killing 21 people while injuring 182 others. The tragedy led to the wrongful conviction of six Irish men, known as the Birmingham Six, who were later acquitted after years of imprisonment, highlighting significant miscarriages of justice in the British legal system.
22 Nov UN General Assembly Recognizes Palestinian Sovereignty: On November 22, 1974, the United Nations General Assembly passed a landmark resolution recognizing the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and sovereignty. This pivotal moment marked a significant diplomatic milestone in the ongoing Middle East conflict, affirming the Palestinian national aspirations on the global stage.
23 Nov Vladivostok Summit: SALT-II Framework: On November 23, 1974, U.S. President Gerald Ford and Soviet General Secretary Leonid Brezhnev met at the Vladivostok Summit, where they successfully negotiated a framework for the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT-II). This landmark diplomatic meeting aimed to reduce nuclear weapon stockpiles and ease Cold War tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union.
24 Nov Discovery of Lucy - Groundbreaking Hominid Fossil: On November 24, 1974, paleontologists Donald Johanson and Tom Gray made a remarkable discovery in the Afar Triangle of Ethiopia: a 3.18 million-year-old female hominid skeleton of the genus Australopithecus, nicknamed 'Lucy'. This skeleton, approximately 40% complete, was one of the most significant paleoanthropological finds of the 20th century, providing crucial insights into human evolution.
25 Nov IRA Outlawed in Britain after Birmingham Pub Bombings: The British government officially outlawed the Irish Republican Army (IRA) following the devastating Birmingham pub bombings, which resulted in the deaths of 21 people. This marked a significant escalation in the British response to IRA violence during the Troubles.
26 Nov Kakuei Tanaka Resigns as Japan's Prime Minister: Japan's Prime Minister Kakuei Tanaka announced his resignation following an investigative committee report from the House of Representatives, signaling a significant political transition in Japan.
27 Nov Argentine Police Official Assassinated by Montoneros: Alberto Villar, the director of the Policía Federal Argentina's secret police, was assassinated by members of the Montoneros, a left-wing Peronist guerrilla organization. This event underscores the intense political violence and ideological conflicts prevalent in Argentina during the 1970s.
28 Nov John Lennon's Final Public Concert Performance: John Lennon made his last concert appearance as a guest of Elton John at Madison Square Garden in New York City. During the performance, he sang iconic songs including 'Whatever Gets You Thru the Night', 'Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds', and 'I Saw Her Standing There', creating a memorable musical moment shortly before his tragic death.
30 Nov Discovery of Lucy - Groundbreaking Paleoanthropological Find: A team of renowned paleoanthropologists including Donald Johanson, Maurice Taieb, Yves Coppens, and Tim White discovered the remarkably preserved skeleton of an early human ancestor, later named 'Lucy' (Australopithecus afarensis), in the Middle Awash region of Ethiopia's Afar Depression. This discovery significantly advanced our understanding of human evolution.
01 Dec TWA Flight 514 Tragic Crash: A Boeing 727 carrying TWA Flight 514 crashed northwest of Dulles International Airport, resulting in the devastating loss of all 92 passengers and crew members. This tragic aviation accident highlighted critical safety concerns in commercial air travel during the mid-1970s.
02 Dec Soyuz 16 Space Mission: The Soviet Union launched Soyuz 16 into Earth orbit for a six-day scientific and technological mission, continuing the space exploration efforts of the era.
04 Dec Sartre Visits Andreas Baader in Prison: Renowned French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre visited imprisoned Red Army Faction (RAF) leader Andreas Baader, highlighting the intellectual engagement with radical political movements of the era.
05 Dec Final Episode of Monty Python's Flying Circus: The groundbreaking comedy series Monty Python's Flying Circus broadcasts its final episode on BBC 2, marking the end of a revolutionary comedy era.
06 Dec New York Stock Exchange Reaches Historic Low Point: The New York Stock Exchange experienced a significant downturn, closing at 577.60 points—its lowest level since October 26, 1962—reflecting the economic challenges and market volatility of the mid-1970s.
07 Dec Randolph-Sheppard Act Implemented: The Randolph-Sheppard Act officially took effect, marking a significant milestone in disability rights legislation. This landmark United States law, titled 'Vending Facilities for Blind in Federal Buildings', was designed to provide blind individuals with meaningful employment opportunities and enhance their economic independence by establishing priority for blind persons to operate vending facilities in federal buildings.
08 Dec Greek Monarchy Referendum Details: In a landmark democratic process, approximately 70 percent of Greek voters supported abolishing the monarchy and transitioning to a presidential republic.
09 Dec Extraordinary Prison Release: Johnson Grigsby was freed after an unprecedented 66 years of imprisonment in Indiana, marking an extraordinary case of long-term incarceration and eventual release.
10 Dec UN International Women's Year Declaration: The United Nations General Assembly passed Resolution 3275, officially designating 1975 as International Women's Year to promote gender equality and women's rights globally.
11 Dec FALN Terrorist Bombing in East Harlem: On December 11, 1974, a terrorist bombing by the Fuerzas Armadas de Liberación Nacional (FALN), a Puerto Rican nationalist group, targeted a location in East Harlem. The explosion critically injured police officer Angel Poggi, leaving him permanently disabled. This incident was part of a series of violent attacks by FALN during the 1970s aimed at promoting Puerto Rican independence through militant actions.
12 Dec Jimmy Carter Announces Presidential Campaign: On December 12, 1974, 50-year-old Jimmy Carter, then Governor of Georgia, officially launched his candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination at the Atlanta Civic Center. This moment marked the beginning of Carter's underdog campaign that would ultimately lead him to win the presidency in 1976, defeating incumbent Gerald Ford.
13 Dec North Vietnamese Spring Offensive Begins: During the Vietnam War, North Vietnamese forces launched their decisive 1975 Spring Offensive, a major military campaign that would ultimately lead to the complete capitulation of South Vietnam by April 30, 1975. This offensive marked a critical turning point in the conflict, signaling the imminent end of the prolonged war.
14 Dec Last World War II Combatant Surrenders: Private Teruo Nakamura, a Taiwanese-born soldier of the Imperial Japanese Army, became the final combatant from World War II to surrender on December 14, 1974. His surrender marked the symbolic end of World War II hostilities, nearly three decades after the war's official conclusion.
15 Dec Beirut Iraqi Embassy Bombing: A devastating suicide car bombing targets the Iraqi Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, completely destroying the building and resulting in 61 fatalities, including Iraq's ambassador to Lebanon. This terrorist attack highlights the volatile political climate in the Middle East during the 1970s.
16 Dec Soviet Nuclear Test in Kazakhstan: The Soviet Union conducted a nuclear weapons test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in Eastern Kazakhstan on December 16, 1974, as part of its ongoing nuclear weapons development and Cold War strategic capabilities.
17 Dec WIPO Becomes UN Specialized Agency: The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) officially became a specialized agency of the United Nations, marking a significant milestone in international intellectual property governance and cooperation.
18 Dec Michail Stasinopoulos Elected President of Greece: Michail Stasinopoulos of the New Democracy Party was elected President of Greece by a near-unanimous vote of the Hellenic Parliament, marking a significant moment in post-military junta Greek political history.
19 Dec Nelson Rockefeller Becomes Vice President: Nelson A. Rockefeller is sworn in as the 41st Vice President of the United States under President Gerald Ford, following the constitutional provisions of the 25th Amendment after Richard Nixon's resignation.
20 Dec Ethiopia Becomes Socialist One-Party State: Ethiopia undergoes a significant political transformation, transitioning to a socialist one-party state, which would dramatically reshape the country's political landscape and governance structure.
22 Dec Nelson Rockefeller Sworn In as Vice President: Nelson Rockefeller was sworn in as Vice President after an extensive four-month confirmation process on Capitol Hill. This unprecedented event marked the first time in U.S. history that both the President and Vice President were not elected through traditional popular vote, following the resignations of Richard Nixon and Spiro Agnew.
23 Dec Good News Musical Opens on Broadway: The musical 'Good News' by Ray Henderson, B.G. DeSylva, and Lew Brown opened at the St. James Theater in New York City, running for a limited engagement of 16 performances. This revival of the classic 1920s musical brought nostalgic entertainment to Broadway audiences during the mid-1970s.
24 Dec Cyclone Tracy devastates Darwin, Australia.
25 Dec Cyclone Tracy Devastates Darwin: On Christmas Day 1974, Cyclone Tracy struck Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, causing unprecedented destruction. The powerful tropical cyclone virtually destroyed the entire city, killing 71 people and leaving over 70% of Darwin's buildings in ruins. The disaster led to the largest peacetime evacuation in Australian history, with over 30,000 residents airlifted out of the region.
26 Dec Cyclone Tracy Devastates Darwin: Cyclone Tracy struck Darwin, Australia, causing catastrophic damage and virtually destroying the entire city. This natural disaster resulted in significant loss of life, widespread destruction of infrastructure, and prompted a massive national emergency response and subsequent urban reconstruction efforts.
27 Dec Sandinista Hostage Seizure in Nicaragua: The Frente Sandinista de Liberación Nacional (FSLN), a revolutionary political party, seized government hostages during a private party in Managua, escalating political tensions in Nicaragua.
28 Dec Devastating Pakistan Earthquake of 1974: A severe magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck Pakistan, causing massive destruction in the Pattan region. The disaster resulted in 5,300 fatalities, 17,000 injuries, and impacted approximately 97,000 people. The village of Pattan and surrounding hamlets were completely obliterated, marking one of the most significant natural disasters in Pakistan's history.
29 Dec Pittsburgh Steelers Triumph in AFC Championship: In a decisive playoff match, the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Oakland Raiders 24-13 at Oakland Coliseum, advancing in the AFC Championship game. This victory was a significant moment in the Steelers' storied NFL history, showcasing their emerging dominance in professional football during the 1970s.
30 Dec The Beatles Legal Dissolution: The Beatles are officially legally disbanded, concluding a four-year legal process that marked the formal end of one of the most influential rock bands in history.
31 Dec Altair 8800 Personal Computer Debuts: Popular Electronics magazine displays the Altair 8800, widely considered the first personal computer that would spark the microcomputer revolution and inspire early tech entrepreneurs like Bill Gates and Paul Allen.

What happened in 1974?

Discover what the world looked like in 1974:

Discover 1974 1974 Historical Events 1974 Nobel Prize Winners 1974 Most Popular Baby Names 1974 Chinese Horoscope 1974 Movies 1974 TV Series 1974 Academy Awards 1974 Books 1974 VideoGames

Top 1974 Songs in USA Top 1974 Songs in UK Top R&B Songs of 1974