What happened in August 1966?
The top front-page story of each day in August 1966, as it was reported at the time. Click a date to see that day’s full front page and the matching birthday books.
- Aug 1📈 Corporate Profits Peak – A 500-company survey reveals corporate profits rose by 10.2% in the first half of the year, with only a few sectors declining.
- Aug 2🏢 Texas Tower Shooting – A sniper at the University of Texas tower kills 12 and injures 33 before being shot by police. His wife and mother were also found dead.
- Aug 3🌌 Biggest Helium Plant – The largest plant for liquid helium opens, establishing a delivery system across the U.S. as demand for helium surges.
- Aug 4🚗 1,000-Mile Rally Success – Cars in a 1,000-mile rally from Stratford to Syracuse complete the first section without any mishaps.
- Aug 5🏗️ Rockefeller Signs Schools Bill – Governor Rockefeller signs a significant new schools bill, promising a billion in construction over the next decade.
- Aug 6🏆 Clay Title Defense – Muhammad Ali is a 10-1 favorite to retain his world title in a bout in London, with low local interest expected.
- Aug 7🥇 Clay Knocks Out London – Muhammad Ali defeats Brian London in a boxing match, showcasing his speed and skill in the ring.
- Aug 8✈️ Jet Crash in Nebraska – All 42 passengers die as a Braniff airliner crashes in Nebraska, marking a significant aviation disaster.
- Aug 9🏊 World Records Set – Three world records in swimming are broken by Miss Wainwright, Reynolds, and the English team during a competitive event.
- Aug 10🏅 Killy Leads Giant Slalom – Killy of France takes the lead after the first heat in the Giant Slalom at the World Meet in Chile.
- Aug 11📈 Retail Sales Rise – Retail sales increased by 0.6% in July, reaching nearly $25.5 billion, marking a near-record level compared to June.
- Aug 12🥇 Terrell License Granted – State Board lifts ban, allowing Terrell to fight, raising hopes for a match with Clay in the future.
- Aug 13🎷 Duke Ellington's New Chapter – Duke Ellington, at 67, embraces a new phase as his religious jazz gains popularity in secular venues after a cathedral concert.
- Aug 14🛸 Air Force Studies UFOs – The U.S. Air Force selects a university to analyze data related to unidentified flying objects.
- Aug 15🌕 Satellite Enters Lunar Orbit – U.S. satellite becomes the first to orbit the Moon, marking a significant achievement in space exploration.
- Aug 16🏛️ U.N. Budget Increase – U.N. Secretary-General Thant proposes a 5.5% budget rise to $128 million, citing financial challenges faced by the organization.
- Aug 17📈 Record Profit at Litton – Litton Industries reports a record net income increase of 39% for fiscal year 1966, showcasing strong financial performance.
- Aug 18🚗 Auto Safety Bill Passed – The House approved an auto safety bill for 1968 models and used cars with a unanimous vote of 371-0.
- Aug 19🏊 Yale Star Breaks Record – Miss Muir sets a new record with a time of 4:11.6 in the 200-meter backstroke, showcasing her swimming talent.
- Aug 20🌍 World Bank Loan Record – $150 million credit to India marks the first part of a $900 million deal to support its economy during a crisis.
- Aug 21🏊 800-Meter Record Set – Catie Ball, 14, breaks the U.S. breast-stroke record at 8:65.4 during an A.A.U. swim meet.
- Aug 22🌕 Orbiter 1 Nears Moon – Orbiter 1 moves within 36 miles of the Moon, transmitting the first clear high-resolution images of its far side.
- Aug 23🌕 Lunar Orbiter Photos – Lunar Orbiter 1 successfully begins its mission, capturing images of potential moon landing sites for future astronauts.
- Aug 24💻 Microcircuit Innovation – A new microcircuit capable of computations fits on the head of a pin, marking a significant advancement in computer technology.
- Aug 25🏆 235 Yachts Compete – 235 yachts begin competition for prestigious sailing laurels, showcasing maritime skill and tradition.
- Aug 26🌍 Earth from Moon – First images of Earth taken from the Moon show stunning views of clouds and landscapes, marking a milestone in space exploration.
- Aug 27🎨 Church Publishes Artworks – A church is set to publish works by seven contemporary artists, emphasizing reputation over personal views in the selection.
- Aug 28🚢 Freighter Honored for Rescue – Cotton State recognized for saving 29 men from a Greek ship during a storm, praised by government and maritime industry.
- Aug 29⚽ Greek Booters Triumph – Greek football team secures second place in U.S. Cup of Champions, with Eusebio and Nelson scoring key goals.
- Aug 30🎾 Aussies Triumph in Finals – Australian duo Bueno and Richey defeat King and Casals in a thrilling tennis final with a score of 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.
- Aug 31📚 Walter Kerr Appointed – Walter Kerr is named Drama Critic for The Times, returning to criticism after 15 years at the Herald Tribune.
Happy Birthday! 1966 – The Year in Headlines
The whole of 1966 in real headlines. See the 1966 book →
Born in August? Pick the day
Every birthday in August has its own On This Day in Headlines book: