US President Harry Truman labels his administration the "Fair Deal"
Harry S. Truman's tenure as the 33rd president of the United States began on April 12, 1945, upon the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and ended on January 20, 1953.
Year in History
Explore the major historical events, famous births, and notable deaths that occurred in the year 1949. This year saw 209 significant events. 48 notable figures were born. 2 notable figures passed away.
20th Century1940s
1949 Timeline
US President Harry Truman labels his administration the "Fair Deal"
Harry S. Truman's tenure as the 33rd president of the United States began on April 12, 1945, upon the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and ended on January 20, 1953.
First Israeli election won by David Ben-Gurion's Mapai party
Constituent Assembly elections were held in newly independent Israel on 25 January 1949. Voter turnout was 86.9%.
1st US daytime soap on TV "These Are My Children" (NBC in Chicago)
1st US daytime soap on TV "These Are My Children" (NBC in Chicago)
American diplomat Henry Kissinger (25) weds Ann Fleisher (23) in Washington Heights, Manhattan, NYC
American diplomat Henry Kissinger (25) weds Ann Fleisher (23) in Washington Heights, Manhattan, NYC
"Lovesick Blues" single is released by Hank Williams (Cashbox "Best Hillbilly Record of the Year," Billboard Song of the
"Lovesick Blues" single is released by Hank Williams (Cashbox "Best Hillbilly Record of the Year," Billboard Song of the Year 1949)
Donald Bradman plays his last innings in first-class cricket, scores 30
Donald Bradman plays his last innings in first-class cricket, scores 30
The North Atlantic Treaty is signed in Washington, D.C., establishing the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a m
The North Atlantic Treaty is signed in Washington, D.C., establishing the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a military alliance between Western nations
Arthur Miller wins a Pulitzer Prize for his play "Death of a Salesman"
Arthur Asher Miller (October 17, 1915 – February 10, 2005) was an American actor and writer of plays in the 20th-century American theater.
USSR lifts blockade of West Berlin after US, UK, and allies successfully supply the city during the Berlin Airlift
West Berlin (German: Berlin (West) or West-Berlin, German pronunciation: [ˈvɛstbɛʁˌliːn] ) was a political enclave which comprised the western part of Berlin from 1948 until 1990, during the Cold...
Federal Republic of (West) Germany is created from the American, British, and French occupation zones
The British occupation zone in Germany (German: Britische Besatzungszone) was one of the Allied-occupied areas in Germany after World War II.
American "Gilda" actress Rita Hayworth (31) weds Pakistani race horse owner Prince Aly Khan (37); separate in 1951, divo
American "Gilda" actress Rita Hayworth (31) weds Pakistani race horse owner Prince Aly Khan (37); separate in 1951, divorce finalized in 1953
American singer and actress Doris Day (27) divorces American saxophonist George Weidler (23) after 3 years of marriage
Doris Day was an American actress and singer. With an entertainment career that spanned nearly 50 years, Day was one of the most popular and acclaimed female singers of the 1940s and 1950s, with a...
Actor Burgess Meredith (41) divorces actress Paulette Goddard (39) after 5 years of marriage
Oliver Burgess Meredith was an American actor and filmmaker whose career encompassed radio, theater, film, and television.
American Actress Hattie McDaniel (54) weds interior decorator Larry Williams in Yuma, Arizona; divorce in 1950
American Actress Hattie McDaniel (54) weds interior decorator Larry Williams in Yuma, Arizona; divorce in 1950
"Captain Video & His Video Rangers" debut on DUMONT-TV - Television's first sci-fi series
"Captain Video & His Video Rangers" debut on DUMONT-TV - Television's first sci-fi series
Austrian-American filmmaker Billy Wilder (43) weds American actress and singer Audrey Young (27), until his death in 200
Austrian-American filmmaker Billy Wilder (43) weds American actress and singer Audrey Young (27), until his death in 2002
South Africa's Prohibition of Mixed Marriages Act commences, prohibiting marriage or sexual relationships between White
South Africa's Prohibition of Mixed Marriages Act commences, prohibiting marriage or sexual relationships between White people and people of other races [1]
Basketball Association of America (BAA) and National Basketball League (NBL) merge to form the National Basketball Assoc
Basketball Association of America (BAA) and National Basketball League (NBL) merge to form the National Basketball Association (NBA), with Maurice Podoloff elected as head of the new league
Film and stage actor Jimmy Stewart (41) weds former model Gloria Hatrick McLean (31) at the Brentwood Presbyterian Churc
Film and stage actor Jimmy Stewart (41) weds former model Gloria Hatrick McLean (31) at the Brentwood Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles
Molecular biologist Francis Crick (33) weds artist Odile Speed (29)
Molecular biologist Francis Crick (33) weds artist Odile Speed (29)
Soviet Union secretly performs its first successful nuclear weapons test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in northeast Kaz
Soviet Union secretly performs its first successful nuclear weapons test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in northeast Kazakhstan
"The Third Man", directed by Carol Reed, starring Joseph Cotten, Alida Valli, and Orson Welles, is released in the Unite
"The Third Man", directed by Carol Reed, starring Joseph Cotten, Alida Valli, and Orson Welles, is released in the United Kingdom (Academy Awards Best Cinematography 1950)
American actress Janet Leigh (22) divorces American sailor Stanley Reames after almost 4 years of marriage
Jeanette Helen Morrison (July 6, 1927 – October 3, 2004), known professionally as Janet Leigh, was an American actress, businesswoman and author.
India's Constituent Assembly adopts Hindi as an official language, celebrated today as Hindi Day
India's Constituent Assembly adopts Hindi as an official language, celebrated today as Hindi Day
"Lone Ranger" premieres on ABC-TV. Hi-yo, Silver! Away!
The Lone Ranger is a fictional masked former Texas Ranger who fought outlaws in the American Old West with his Native American friend Tonto.
Figure skater and actress Sonja Henie (36) weds Winthrop Gardner Jr.
Figure skater and actress Sonja Henie (36) weds Winthrop Gardner Jr.
Mao Zedong and Chinese Communist leaders announce the establishment of the People's Republic of China at the first plena
Mao Zedong and Chinese Communist leaders announce the establishment of the People's Republic of China at the first plenary session of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference at the Huairen Hall in Zhongnanhai, Peking
Retired American MLB outfielder Ty Cobb (61) weds American divorcée Frances Cass (40); divorce in 1956
Retired American MLB outfielder Ty Cobb (61) weds American divorcée Frances Cass (40); divorce in 1956
US President Harry Truman signs the Mutual Defense Assistance Act to strengthen NATO allies especially Greece and Turkey
The Mutual Defense Assistance Act was a United States Act of Congress signed by President Harry S. Truman on October 6, 1949. For U.S. foreign policy, it was the first U.S.
American constitutional lawyer Phyllis Stewart (25) weds attorney John Fred Schlafly, Jr.
American constitutional lawyer Phyllis Stewart (25) weds attorney John Fred Schlafly, Jr.
The Netherlands recognizes its former colony Indonesia as a sovereign state at conclusion of the Round Table Conference
The Netherlands recognizes its former colony Indonesia as a sovereign state at conclusion of the Round Table Conference at the Hague, Netherlands
"Gone With The Wind" actor Clark Gable (48) weds socialite Sylvia Ashley (45)
"Gone With The Wind" actor Clark Gable (48) weds socialite Sylvia Ashley (45)
British-American "North By Northwest" actor Cary Grant (45) weds third wife, American "Every Girl Should Be Married" act
British-American "North By Northwest" actor Cary Grant (45) weds third wife, American "Every Girl Should Be Married" actress Betsy Drake (26); separate in 1958, divorce in 1962
Queen Juliana of the Netherlands formally recognizes the independence of Indonesia after four years of revolution and Un
Queen Juliana of the Netherlands formally recognizes the independence of Indonesia after four years of revolution and United Nations mediation
Luis Muñoz Marín becomes the first democratically elected Governor of Puerto Rico
José Luis Alberto Muñoz Marín (February 18, 1898 – April 30, 1980), most commonly known as Luis Muñoz Marín, was a Puerto Rican journalist, politician, and Puerto Rican autonomist who served as the...
"Colgate Theater" dramatic anthology series premieres on NBC TV
"Colgate Theater" dramatic anthology series premieres on NBC TV
West Indian cricket batsman Everton Weekes scores 101 in 3rd Test against India in Calcutta; his world record fifth cons
West Indian cricket batsman Everton Weekes scores 101 in 3rd Test against India in Calcutta; his world record fifth consecutive Test century
General Spoor orders cease-fire on Sumatra
General Spoor orders cease-fire on Sumatra
1st photo of genes taken at University of Southern California by Pease & Baker
1st photo of genes taken at University of Southern California by Pease & Baker
1st Jewish family show "Goldbergs" premieres on CBS
1st Jewish family show "Goldbergs" premieres on CBS
KDKA TV channel 2 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (CBS) begins broadcasting
KDKA TV channel 2 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (CBS) begins broadcasting
Black and Indian race rebellion in Durban, South Africa; 142 die
Black and Indian race rebellion in Durban, South Africa; 142 die
Mao's Red army conquers Ten-tsin
Mao's Red army conquers Ten-tsin
KNBH (now KNBC) TV channel 4 in Los Angeles, CA (NBC) 1st broadcast
KNBH (now KNBC) TV channel 4 in Los Angeles, CA (NBC) 1st broadcast
Radio series "The Goldbergs" by Gertrude Berg premieres on US TV on CBS
Gertrude Berg was an American actress, screenwriter, and producer. A pioneer of classic radio, she was one of the first women to create, write, produce, and star in a long-running hit when she...
"They Stand Accused" courtroom drama premieres on CBS (later DuMont)
"They Stand Accused" courtroom drama premieres on CBS (later DuMont)
Cuba recognises Israel.
As of January 2026, the State of Israel is recognized as a sovereign state by 166 of the other 192 member states of the United Nations, or approximately 86% of all UN members.
First inaugural parade televised for Harry Truman, watched by 10 million people
The second inauguration of Harry S. Truman as president of the United States was held on Thursday, January 20, 1949, at the East Portico of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C.
Chinatown telephone exchange in San Francisco is closed
Chinatown telephone exchange in San Francisco is closed
1st Emmy Awards: Shirley Dinsdale & Pantomime Quiz (KTLA) win
The 1st Emmy Awards, retroactively known as the 1st Primetime Emmy Awards after the debut of the counterpart Daytime Emmy Awards, were presented at the Hollywood Athletic Club in Los Angeles on...
" (5.08-m) Hale telescope 1st used at Palomar observatory in Palomar Mountain, California [see also June 3, 1948]
" (5.08-m) Hale telescope 1st used at Palomar observatory in Palomar Mountain, California [see also June 3, 1948]
Chinese liner "Taiping" collides with a collier off south China
Chinese liner "Taiping" collides with a collier off south China
NY Giants sign their 1st black players, Monte Irvin & Ford Smith
NY Giants sign their 1st black players, Monte Irvin & Ford Smith
Great Britain, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand and Switzerland recognize Israel
As of January 2026, the State of Israel is recognized as a sovereign state by 166 of the other 192 member states of the United Nations, or approximately 86% of all UN members.
Huaso sets official world equestrian high-jump record, 2.47 m, Chic
Huaso sets official world equestrian high-jump record, 2.47 m, Chic
Hungarian cardinal József Mindszenty sentenced to life in prison
József Mindszenty was a Hungarian cardinal of the Catholic Church who served as Archbishop of Esztergom and leader of the Catholic Church in Hungary from 1945 to 1973.
1st session of Knesset (Jerusalem Israel)
The Knesset is the unicameral legislature of Israel. The Knesset passes all laws, elects the president and prime minister, approves the cabinet, and supervises the work of the government, among other...
Chaim Weitzman elected 1st president of Israel
Chaim Azriel Weizmann ( KYME WYTES-mən; 27 November 1874 – 9 November 1952) was a Russian-born Israeli statesman, biochemist, and Zionist leader who served as president of the Zionist Organization...
First International Pancake Race is held in Liberal, Kansas
First International Pancake Race is held in Liberal, Kansas
US TV soap opera "A Woman to Remember" is 1st broadcast on DuMont Television Network
US TV soap opera "A Woman to Remember" is 1st broadcast on DuMont Television Network
Israel & Egypt sign an armistice agreement
The 1949 Armistice Agreements were signed between Israel and Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria.
WAC Corporal rocket achieves height of 400k (record)
WAC Corporal rocket achieves height of 400k (record)
USAF plane began 1st nonstop around-the-world flight
USAF plane began 1st nonstop around-the-world flight
1st automatic street light (New Milford, Ct)
1st automatic street light (New Milford, Ct)
WAGA TV channel 5 in Atlanta, GA (CBS) begins broadcasting
WAGA TV channel 5 in Atlanta, GA (CBS) begins broadcasting
Brigadier General Edwin K Wright, USA, ends term as deputy director of CIA
Brigadier General Edwin K Wright, USA, ends term as deputy director of CIA
KFMB TV channel 8 in San Diego, CA (CBS) begins broadcasting
San Diego is a city on the Pacific coast of Southern California, adjacent to the Mexico–United States border. It is the eighth-most populous city in the U.S.
WGAL TV channel 8 in Lancaster, PA (NBC) begins broadcasting
WGAL TV channel 8 in Lancaster, PA (NBC) begins broadcasting
1st museum devoted exclusively to atomic energy, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
1st museum devoted exclusively to atomic energy, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
WTVJ TV channel 4 in Miami, FL (NBC/CBS) begins broadcasting
WTVJ TV channel 4 in Miami, FL (NBC/CBS) begins broadcasting
Sidney Kingsley's play "Detective Story" premieres in NYC
Sidney Kingsley's play "Detective Story" premieres in NYC
21st Academy Awards: "Hamlet", Laurence Olivier & Jane Wyman win, Walter & John Huston become 1st father-and-son team to
21st Academy Awards: "Hamlet", Laurence Olivier & Jane Wyman win, Walter & John Huston become 1st father-and-son team to win awards
The Soviet Union begins Operation Pribioi, the mass deportation of 90,000 Estonians, Latvians and Lithuanians to inhospi
The Soviet Union begins Operation Pribioi, the mass deportation of 90,000 Estonians, Latvians and Lithuanians to inhospitable areas in the Soviet Union
English astronomer Fred Hoyle coins the term "Big Bang" in a BBC radio talk while actually arguing for the alternative "
English astronomer Fred Hoyle coins the term "Big Bang" in a BBC radio talk while actually arguing for the alternative "steady-state" theory [1]
Turkey recognizes Israel
As of January 2026, the State of Israel is recognized as a sovereign state by 166 of the other 192 member states of the United Nations, or approximately 86% of all UN members.
Riot breaks out in Austurvöllur square in Reykjavík, when Iceland joins NATO
Riot breaks out in Austurvöllur square in Reykjavík, when Iceland joins NATO
Newfoundland becomes Canada's 10th province
The premier of Newfoundland and Labrador is current title of the first minister for the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, which was at certain points in its history a colony, dominion,...
KQW-AM in San Francisco CA changes call letters to KCBS
KQW-AM in San Francisco CA changes call letters to KCBS
Israel & Jordan sign armistice agreement
The 1949 Armistice Agreements were signed between Israel and Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria.
60 year old St Anthony's Hospital in Effingham, Illinois, catches fire, killing 77 people
60 year old St Anthony's Hospital in Effingham, Illinois, catches fire, killing 77 people
UN International Court of Justice holds Albania responsible for incidents in Corfu Channel and awards Britain damages
UN International Court of Justice holds Albania responsible for incidents in Corfu Channel and awards Britain damages
During a lecture at the Mayo Clinic, Philip S. Hench reveals positive results of clinical trials using cortisone to trea
During a lecture at the Mayo Clinic, Philip S. Hench reveals positive results of clinical trials using cortisone to treat rheumatoid arthritis
International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg's last judgment
International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg's last judgment
Pope Pius XII publishes encyclical Redemptoris nostri
Redemptoris nostri cruciatus (The passion of our Redeemer) is an encyclical of Pope Pius XII dated 15 April 1949 focusing on the situation in Palestine immediately following the cessation of fighting...
Stanley Cup Final, Maple Leaf Gardens, Toronto, ON: 3-peat for Toronto Maple Leafs as they beat Detroit Red Wings, 3-1 f
Stanley Cup Final, Maple Leaf Gardens, Toronto, ON: 3-peat for Toronto Maple Leafs as they beat Detroit Red Wings, 3-1 for a 4 game series sweep
Republic of Ireland withdraws from British Commonwealth
The Commonwealth of Nations, often referred to as the British Commonwealth or simply the Commonwealth, is an international association of 56 member states, the vast majority of which are former...
Chinese Red army conquers Nanjing
The Chinese Red Army, formally the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army (中國工農紅軍) or just the Red Army (紅軍), was the military wing of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from 1928 to 1937.
3rd Tony Awards: "Death of a Salesman" & "Kiss Me Kate" win
The 3rd Annual Tony Awards were held on April 24, 1949, at the Waldorf-Astoria Grand Ballroom in New York City, and broadcast on radio station WOR and the Mutual Network.
Transjordan is officially renamed the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
The Emirate of Transjordan, officially the Amirate of Trans-Jordan, was a British protectorate under the League of Nations mandate established on 11 April 1921, which remained as such until achieving...
Former Philippine First Lady Aurora Quezon, 61, assassinated while en route to dedicate a hospital in memory of her late
Former Philippine First Lady Aurora Quezon, 61, assassinated while en route to dedicate a hospital in memory of her late husband; her daughter and 10 others also killed
Athletics' Elmer Valo is the first AL baseball player to hit 2 bases-loaded triples in a game
The 1949 major league baseball season began on April 18, 1949. The regular season ended on October 2, with the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Yankees as the regular season champions of the National...
1st firing of a US Viking rocket; reached 80 km
1st firing of a US Viking rocket; reached 80 km
Plane carrying the entire Torino Serie A soccer squad crashes on the outskirts of Turin, Italy; 31 killed; Torino awarde
Plane carrying the entire Torino Serie A soccer squad crashes on the outskirts of Turin, Italy; 31 killed; Torino awarded League title at the request of their rivals
Detroit Tigers second baseman Charlie Gehringer is elected in the Baseball Hall of Fame
The Detroit Tigers are an American professional baseball team based in Detroit. The Tigers compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member club of the American League (AL) Central Division.
Roem–Van Roijen Agreement negotiated in Jakarta between Indonesian Republican Mohammad Roem and Jan Herman van Roijen fo
Roem–Van Roijen Agreement negotiated in Jakarta between Indonesian Republican Mohammad Roem and Jan Herman van Roijen for Netherlands - paves the way for independence
West German constitution approved
The original Constitution of East Germany (the German Democratic Republic; German: Verfassung der Deutschen Demokratischen Republik) was promulgated on 7 October 1949.
Britain's 1st launderette opens in Queensway, London
Britain's 1st launderette opens in Queensway, London
By a vote of 37-12, Israel becomes 59th member of UN
By a vote of 37-12, Israel becomes 59th member of UN
First British-produced jet bomber, the Canberra, makes its first test flight
First British-produced jet bomber, the Canberra, makes its first test flight
British government recognises Republic of Ireland (previously Irish Free State)
The Irish Free State (6 December 1922 – 29 December 1937), also known by its Irish name Saorstát Éireann, was a state established in December 1922 under the Anglo-Irish Treaty of December 1921.
Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America incorporates
Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America incorporates
Brooklyn Dodgers Don Newcombe, in 1st MLB start, shuts out Cincinnati on 5 hits to win 3-0
Brooklyn Dodgers Don Newcombe, in 1st MLB start, shuts out Cincinnati on 5 hits to win 3-0
Chinese Red army occupies Shanghai
The Chinese Red Army, formally the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army (中國工農紅軍) or just the Red Army (紅軍), was the military wing of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from 1928 to 1937.
Martin Canine, cartoon character, spoofs Martin Kane
Martin Canine, cartoon character, spoofs Martin Kane
MLB Cleveland Indians start 12-17, owner Bill Veeck arranges a "Second Opening Day"
MLB Cleveland Indians start 12-17, owner Bill Veeck arranges a "Second Opening Day"
Candid Camera, TV comedy show, moves to NBC
Candid Camera is an American hidden camera and practical joke reality television series. The show was created, developed, and presented by Allen Funt.
East German constitution approved
The original Constitution of East Germany (the German Democratic Republic; German: Verfassung der Deutschen Demokratischen Republik) was promulgated on 7 October 1949.
Charley Lupica begins his stay on a 4-foot square platform atop a 60-foot pole, vowing to remain until the Indians clinc
Charley Lupica begins his stay on a 4-foot square platform atop a 60-foot pole, vowing to remain until the Indians clinch the pennant (they don't, and he stays for 117 days)
British government grants Cyrenaica (East-Libya) independence
Cyrenaica ( SY-rə-NAY-ik-ə-,-SIRR-ə) or Kyrenaika, is the eastern region of Libya.
1st African American to graduate from US Naval Academy (Wesley Anthony Brown)
1st African American to graduate from US Naval Academy (Wesley Anthony Brown)
"It Pays To Be Ignorant" game show debut on CBS-TV
It Pays to Be Ignorant is a 1942–51 radio comedy show which maintained its popularity during a nine-year run on three networks for such sponsors as Philip Morris, Chrysler, and DeSoto.
Georgia Neese Clark of Kansas becomes 1st woman treasurer of US
Georgia Neese Clark of Kansas becomes 1st woman treasurer of US
Istvan Dobi becomes Hungarian premier
Istvan Dobi becomes Hungarian premier
Emile Zatopek runs world record 10,000m (29:28.2)
Emile Zatopek runs world record 10,000m (29:28.2)
Phils Eddie Waitkus, shot by Ruth Steinhagen, 19, at Eddgewater Hotel
Phils Eddie Waitkus, shot by Ruth Steinhagen, 19, at Eddgewater Hotel
Gas turbine-electric locomotive demonstrated at Erie, Pennsylvania
Gas turbine-electric locomotive demonstrated at Erie, Pennsylvania
Central Intelligence Agency Act passes
The Central Intelligence Agency Act, Pub. L. 81–110, is a United States federal law enacted in 1949. The Act, also called the "CIA Act of 1949" or "Public Law 110" permitted the Central Intelligence...
Dutch Constellation aircraft plunges into the sea near Bari, 33 die
Dutch Constellation aircraft plunges into the sea near Bari, 33 die
"Hopalong Cassidy" becomes 1st network western (NBC)
"Hopalong Cassidy" becomes 1st network western (NBC)
"Long-Haired Hare", animated short starring Bugs Bunny, is released in theaters
"Long-Haired Hare", animated short starring Bugs Bunny, is released in theaters
1st Belgian parliamentary election where women can vote (CVP gains)
1st Belgian parliamentary election where women can vote (CVP gains)
US troops withdraw from Korea after WW II
US troops withdraw from Korea after WW II
Dutch troops evacuate Jakarta
Dutch troops evacuate Jakarta
"Red Barber's Clubhouse" sports show premieres on CBS (later NBC) TV
"Red Barber's Clubhouse" sports show premieres on CBS (later NBC) TV
Cincinnati Reds catcher Walker Cooper goes 6 for 7, (3 HRs, 3 singles, 5 runs scored, 10 RBI) in 23-4 win v Chicago Cubs
Cincinnati Reds catcher Walker Cooper goes 6 for 7, (3 HRs, 3 singles, 5 runs scored, 10 RBI) in 23-4 win v Chicago Cubs
"Dragnet" premieres on NBC radio; also a TV series in 1951 & 1967
"Dragnet" premieres on NBC radio; also a TV series in 1951 & 1967
Monte Irvin & Hank Thompson become first black players for New York Giants in a 4-3 loss to Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets F
Monte Irvin & Hank Thompson become first black players for New York Giants in a 4-3 loss to Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field
First practical rectangular TV tube announced in Toledo, Ohio
First practical rectangular TV tube announced in Toledo, Ohio
Baseball owners agree to erect warning paths before each fence
Baseball owners agree to erect warning paths before each fence
WBTV TV channel 3 in Charlotte, North Carolina (CBS) begins broadcasting
WBTV TV channel 3 in Charlotte, North Carolina (CBS) begins broadcasting
Laos becomes associated state within French Union
An associated state is the minor partner or dependent territory in a formal, free relationship between a political entity (some of them dependent states, some of them fully sovereign) and a major...
Israel's 19 month war of independence ends
The 1948 Arab–Israeli War (15 May 1948 – 10 March 1949), also known as the First Arab–Israeli War, followed the civil war in Mandatory Palestine (29 November 1947 – 14 May 1948) as the second and...
US Senate ratifies North Atlantic Treaty by a vote of 82-13 (NATO)
France is a founding member of NATO and played an active role in its establishment.
Test cricket debut of England's Brian Close at age 18 years and 149 days
Dennis Brian Close, (24 February 1931 – 13 September 2015) was an English first-class cricketer. He was picked to play against New Zealand in July 1949, when he was 18 years old.
WCPO TV channel 9 in Cincinnati, OH (CBS) begins broadcasting
WCPO TV channel 9 in Cincinnati, OH (CBS) begins broadcasting
De Havilland Comet, the world’s first commercial jet airliner, makes its maiden flight
The de Havilland DH.106 Comet is a four-engine narrow body aircraft developed and manufactured by de Havilland in the United Kingdom.
British warship HMS Amethyst escapes down the Yangtze River after being refused safe passage by Chinese Communists follo
British warship HMS Amethyst escapes down the Yangtze River after being refused safe passage by Chinese Communists following a 3-month standoff
A 6.4 earthquake strikes Tungurahua Province, Ecuador, killing 5,000 people
A 6.4 earthquake strikes Tungurahua Province, Ecuador, killing 5,000 people
Future Hall of Famer Luke Appling appears in an MLB record 2,154th game at shortstop for the Chicago White Sox en route
Future Hall of Famer Luke Appling appears in an MLB record 2,154th game at shortstop for the Chicago White Sox en route to 2,218
Bhutan, Land of the Dragon, becomes an independent monarchy
Bhutan, officially the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a landlocked country in South Asia, located in the Eastern Himalayas, bordering China to the north and northwest and India to the south and southeast.
16th NFL Chicago All-Star Game: Philadelphia 38, All-Stars 0 (93,780 attendees)
16th NFL Chicago All-Star Game: Philadelphia 38, All-Stars 0 (93,780 attendees)
Military coup in Syria under colonel Sami Hinnawi
The March 1949 Syrian coup d'état was a bloodless coup d'état that took place on 30 March.
WOTV TV channel 8 in Grand Rapids, MI (NBC) begins broadcasting
WOTV TV channel 8 in Grand Rapids, MI (NBC) begins broadcasting
Hungary adopts a constitution
The Hungarian Constitution of 1949 was a communist state constitution adopted on 20 August 1949[a].
78,382 fans watch the White Sox play the Indians in Cleveland
78,382 fans watch the White Sox play the Indians in Cleveland
Canada's largest earthquake since 1700 strikes the Queen Charlotte Fault below Haida Gwaii at 8.1 magnitude, knocking co
Canada's largest earthquake since 1700 strikes the Queen Charlotte Fault below Haida Gwaii at 8.1 magnitude, knocking cows off their feet [1]
North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) goes into effect
The history of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) begins in the immediate aftermath of World War II.
Roly Jenkins (Worcs vs. Surrey) takes his second hat-trick of the match
Roly Jenkins (Worcs vs. Surrey) takes his second hat-trick of the match
1st network detective series "Martin Kane, Private Eye" debuts on NBC, airing live
1st network detective series "Martin Kane, Private Eye" debuts on NBC, airing live
Fire in Chiang-king, China, kills 7,000 people
Fire in Chiang-king, China, kills 7,000 people
Marie Robie sinks a 393-yard (359.36 m) hole-in-one on the first hole at Furnace Brook
Marie Robie sinks a 393-yard (359.36 m) hole-in-one on the first hole at Furnace Brook
America's first mass killing: Howard Unruh kills 13 neighbors in 12 minutes in Camden, New Jersey [1]
Howard Barton Unruh (January 21, 1921 – October 19, 2009) was an American mass murderer who shot and killed thirteen people during a twelve-minute walk through his neighborhood in Camden, New Jersey,...
Pacific Airlines flight explodes en route to Baie-Comeau, killing 23 people; a passenger's husband, Albert Guay, is late
Pacific Airlines flight explodes en route to Baie-Comeau, killing 23 people; a passenger's husband, Albert Guay, is later sentenced and hanged along with two others for the first bombing of a Canadian plane [1]
Ladies Pro Golf Association of America formed in NYC
Ladies Pro Golf Association of America formed in NYC
KABC TV channel 7 in Los Angeles, CA (ABC) begins broadcasting
Los Angeles (often referred to by its initials, LA) is the most populous city in the U.S. state of California, and the commercial, financial, and cultural center of Southern California.
die as fire engulfs Canadian passenger steamer Noronic in Toronto
SS Noronic was a Canadian passenger ship that was destroyed by fire in Toronto Harbour in September 1949 with the loss of at least 118 lives.
Baseball Major League record of four grand slams hit
The 1949 major league baseball season began on April 18, 1949. The regular season ended on October 2, with the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Yankees as the regular season champions of the National...
"Late Spring", Japanese film directed by Yasujirō Ozu, starring Chishū Ryū, Setsuko Hara and Haruko Sugimura, is release
"Late Spring", Japanese film directed by Yasujirō Ozu, starring Chishū Ryū, Setsuko Hara and Haruko Sugimura, is released in Japan
Dutch Guilder devalues by 30.3%
Dutch Guilder devalues by 30.3%
WFMY TV channel 2 in Greensboro-High Point, NC (CBS) begins broadcasting
WFMY TV channel 2 in Greensboro-High Point, NC (CBS) begins broadcasting
Despite 71 injuries, the Yankees have been in first place all season until the Red Sox move into a tie for first place
The Red Sox–Yankees rivalry is a Major League Baseball (MLB) rivalry between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees.
"Front Page" debuts on CBS-TV
The Front Page is an American newspaper drama television series, broadcast on CBS beginning September 29, 1949, and ending on January 26, 1950.
American chemist Percy L. Julian at the Glidden Company announces an improved method for producing cortisone
American chemist Percy L. Julian at the Glidden Company announces an improved method for producing cortisone
Pirate Ralph Kiner hits his 54th home run and NL record 16th in September
Pirate Ralph Kiner hits his 54th home run and NL record 16th in September
Publication of poetry volume "Annie Allen" by Gwendolyn Brooks, 1950 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry and first African America
Publication of poetry volume "Annie Allen" by Gwendolyn Brooks, 1950 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry and first African American recipient of a Pulitzer [1]
For the first time in 41 years, pennant races in both MLB leagues are decided on the final day of the season: (AL) Yanke
For the first time in 41 years, pennant races in both MLB leagues are decided on the final day of the season: (AL) Yankees upend rival Boston Red Sox 5-3; (NL) Dodgers beat the Phillies 9-7 for a 97-57 record; Cardinals 96-58
WERD, the first Black-owned radio station, opens in Atlanta
WERD, the first Black-owned radio station, opens in Atlanta
American Contract Bridge League votes 58½% to keep blacks out
American Contract Bridge League votes 58½% to keep blacks out
American citizen and radio broadcaster in Japan during the war, Iva Toguri D'Aquino, known as Tokyo Rose, is sentenced t
American citizen and radio broadcaster in Japan during the war, Iva Toguri D'Aquino, known as Tokyo Rose, is sentenced to 10 years and a $10,000 fine for treason; she is later pardoned
German Democratic Republic is formed from the Russian occupation zone (National Day) Wilhelm Pieck becomes the first pre
German Democratic Republic is formed from the Russian occupation zone (National Day) Wilhelm Pieck becomes the first president, Otto Grotewohl the first premier
English ballerina Margot Fonteyn debuts in the US with her performance in Tchaikovsky's "The Sleeping Beauty" at the Met
English ballerina Margot Fonteyn debuts in the US with her performance in Tchaikovsky's "The Sleeping Beauty" at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York
Costa Rica abolishes its army (decree 249)
Costa Rica abolishes its army (decree 249)
14 US Communist Party leaders convicted of sedition
The Smith Act trials of Communist Party leaders were a series of trials held from 1949 to 1958 in which leaders of the Communist Party of the United States (CPUSA) were accused of violating the Smith...
Administration of the territory of Manipur is taken over by the Indian government
Manipur is a state in northeastern India with Imphal as its capital. It borders the Indian states of Assam to the west, Mizoram to the south, and Nagaland to the north and shares the international...
WDAF-TV Channel 4 in Kansas City, MO (NBC) begins broadcasting
WDAF-TV Channel 4 in Kansas City, MO (NBC) begins broadcasting
A's trade second baseman Nellie Fox to the White Sox for Joe Tipton
Jacob Nelson Fox (December 25, 1927 – December 1, 1975) was an American professional baseball player.
Eugenie Anderson becomes the first woman US ambassador (to Denmark)
Eugenie Anderson (May 26, 1909 – March 31, 1997), also known as Helen Eugenie Moore Anderson, was a United States diplomat.
killed in train derailment near Nowy Dwor Poland
killed in train derailment near Nowy Dwor Poland
Construction of the United Nations headquarters begins in New York
Construction of the United Nations headquarters begins in New York
Georges Bidault becomes the President of the Council of Ministers (premier)
Georges Bidault becomes the President of the Council of Ministers (premier)
White Sox trade catcher Joe Tipton to the Philadelphia Athletics for second baseman Nellie Fox
White Sox trade catcher Joe Tipton to the Philadelphia Athletics for second baseman Nellie Fox
Dutch Nazi Henri "Hakkie" Holdert, director of Amsterdam paper De Telegraaf (The Telegraph) and member of the SS, is sen
Dutch Nazi Henri "Hakkie" Holdert, director of Amsterdam paper De Telegraaf (The Telegraph) and member of the SS, is sentenced to 12 years imprisonment
Netherlands ends rationing programs started during WWII for distribution of textiles, meat, and cheese
The term "home front" covers the activities of the civilians in a nation at war. World War II was a total war; homeland military production became vital to both the Allied and Axis powers.
"One Man's Family" premieres on TV in the US, after running as a radio show since 1932
"One Man's Family" premieres on TV in the US, after running as a radio show since 1932
Greek civil war ends after 3 years with defeat of communist factions
The Greek Civil War took place from 1946 to 1949. The conflict, which erupted shortly after the end of World War II, consisted of a Communist-led uprising against the established government of the...
King Faruk disbands Egyptian parliament
King Faruk disbands Egyptian parliament
Costa Rica adopts Constitution
Costa Rica, officially the Republic of Costa Rica, is a country in Central America.
WTTV TV channel 4 in Bloomington-Indianapol, IN (IND) 1st broadcast
WTTV TV channel 4 in Bloomington-Indianapol, IN (IND) 1st broadcast
The U.S. Air Force grounds B-29s after two crashes and 23 deaths in three days
The U.S. Air Force grounds B-29s after two crashes and 23 deaths in three days
Jewish population of Israel reaches 1,000,000
Jewish population of Israel reaches 1,000,000
British steel & iron industry nationalised
The Iron and Steel Corporation of Great Britain was a nationalised industry, set up in 1949 by Clement Attlee's Labour government. The Iron and Steel Act 1949 took effect on 15 February 1951, the...
Gene Autry's single "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer" appears on music charts after songwriter Johnny Marks adapts a poe
Gene Autry's single "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer" appears on music charts after songwriter Johnny Marks adapts a poem written by his brother-in-law Robert L. May for Montgomery Ward department stores [1]
The Constituent Assembly of India formally adopts a new constitution
A constituent assembly (also known as a constitutional convention, constitutional congress, or constitutional assembly) is a body assembled for the purpose of drafting or revising a constitution.
Uranium mine explosions in Johanngeorgenstadt, East Germany, kill 3,700
Uranium mine explosions in Johanngeorgenstadt, East Germany, kill 3,700
Chinese Communists capture Chongqing
The Chinese Communist Revolution was a social and political revolution in mainland China that began in 1927 and culminated with the proclamation of the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 1949.
MLB announces attendance for the season is 20.2 million, down from 20.9 million in 1948; the New York Yankees and the Cl
MLB announces attendance for the season is 20.2 million, down from 20.9 million in 1948; the New York Yankees and the Cleveland Indians each finish with over 2.2 million, but the St. Louis Browns fall to 270,000
KRLD (now KDFW) TV channel 4 in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (CBS) begins broadcasting
KRLD (now KDFW) TV channel 4 in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (CBS) begins broadcasting
Bobby Gage ties the NFL record for the longest touchdown run with a 97-yard score for the Pittsburgh Steelers
Bobby Gage ties the NFL record for the longest touchdown run with a 97-yard score for the Pittsburgh Steelers
15th Heisman Trophy Award: Leon Hart (end), Notre Dame
15th Heisman Trophy Award: Leon Hart (end), Notre Dame
House of Representatives of The Netherlands accepts Indonesian sovereignty
The Indonesian National Revolution (Indonesian: Revolusi Nasional Indonesia), also known as the Indonesian War of Independence, was an armed conflict and diplomatic struggle between the Republic of...
Chicago Bear Johnny Lujack passes for 6 touchdowns vs Chicago Cards (52-29)
Chicago Bear Johnny Lujack passes for 6 touchdowns vs Chicago Cards (52-29)
AL votes 7-1 rejecting legalizing the spitball
AL votes 7-1 rejecting legalizing the spitball
AL votes down proposal to revive spitball
AL votes down proposal to revive spitball
Burma recognizes People's Republic of China
The time period in China from the founding of the People's Republic in 1949 until Mao's death in 1976 is commonly known as Maoist China and Red China.
Luxury passenger ship Aquitania demolished in Gareloch, Scotland
Luxury passenger ship Aquitania demolished in Gareloch, Scotland
20th Century Fox announces it will produce TV programs
20th Television, Inc. (formerly known as TCF Television Productions, Inc., 20th Century-Fox Television and 20th Century Fox Television) is the television studio owned by Disney Television Studios, a...
1st UHF television station operating regular basis Bridgeport, Connecticut
1st UHF television station operating regular basis Bridgeport, Connecticut
India recognizes People's Republic of China
The People's Republic of China is the second most-populous country in the world with a population exceeding 1.4 billion, only surpassed by India.
18 countries recognize Republic Indonesia
18 countries recognize Republic Indonesia
George Foreman is born
George Foreman, American athlete, known for american boxer, was born on 1949-01-10.
Haruki Murakami is born
Haruki Murakami, Japanese writer, known for japanese writer, was born on 1949-01-12. Haruki Murakami (村上 春樹, Murakami Haruki; born January 12, 1949) is a Japanese writer.
John Belushi is born
John Belushi, American comedian, actor and musician, known for american comedian, actor and musician, was born on 1949-01-24.
Peter Agre is born
Peter Agre, American physician and academic, known for american physician and academic, was born on 1949-01-30.
Ray Kurzweil is born
Ray Kurzweil, American computer scientist, author and futurist, known for american computer scientist, author and futurist, was born on 1949-02-12.
Teller is born
Teller is born
Niki Lauda is born
Niki Lauda, Austrian athlete, known for austrian racing driver, was born on 1949-02-22.
Bernadette Peters is born
Bernadette Peters, American actress and singer, known for american actress and singer, was born on 1949-02-28. Bernadette Peters is an American actress and singer.
James Taylor is born
James Taylor, American musician, known for american musician, was born on 1949-03-12. James Vernon Taylor is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist.
Billy Crystal is born
Billy Crystal, American comedian and actor, known for american comedian and actor, was born on 1949-03-14. William Edward Crystal is an American comedian, actor, and filmmaker.
Bobby Orr is born
Bobby Orr, Canadian athlete, known for canadian ice hockey player, was born on 1949-03-20.
Andrew Lloyd Webber is born
Andrew Lloyd Webber, English musician, known for english theatre composer, was born on 1949-03-22. Andrew Lloyd Webber, Baron Lloyd-Webber is an English composer and impresario of musical theatre.
Steven Tyler is born
Steven Tyler, American musician, known for american singer and songwriter, was born on 1949-03-26. Steven Victor Tallarico, known professionally as Steven Tyler, is an American singer and songwriter.
Dianne Wiest is born
Dianne Wiest, American actress, known for american actress, was born on 1949-03-28. Dianne Evelyn Wiest is an American actress.
Al Gore is born
Al Gore is born
Robert Allen Litchfield is born
Robert Allen Litchfield is born
Christopher Hitchens is born
Christopher Hitchens, American american author and journalist, known for british and american author and journalist, was born on 1949-04-13.
Stevie Nicks is born
Stevie Nicks, American musician, known for american singer-songwriter, was born on 1949-05-26.
Clarence Thomas is born
Clarence Thomas is born
Kathy Bates is born
Kathy Bates, American actress, known for american actress, was born on 1949-06-28. Kathleen Doyle Bates is an American actress.
Shelley Duvall is born
Shelley Duvall, American actress and producer, known for american actress and producer, was born on 1949-07-07.
Cat Stevens is born
Cat Stevens, British musician, known for british musician, was born on 1949-07-21.
Peggy Fleming is born
Peggy Fleming is born
Vida Blue is born
Vida Blue athlete, known for american baseball player, was born on 1949-07-28. Vida Rochelle Blue Jr. (July 28, 1949 – May 6, 2023) was an American professional baseball player.
Greg Chappell is born
Greg Chappell athlete, known for australian cricketer, was born on 1949-08-07. Gregory Stephen Chappell is a former cricketer who represented Australia at international level in both Tests and…
Robert Plant is born
Robert Plant, English musician, known for english singer, was born on 1949-08-20. Robert Anthony Plant is an English singer and songwriter.
Nate Archibald is born
Nate Archibald, American athlete, known for american basketball player, was born on 1949-09-02. Nathaniel "Tiny" Archibald is an American former professional basketball player.
Charles Simonyi is born
Charles Simonyi, American hungarian-american billionaire software architect, known for hungarian-american billionaire software architect, was born on 1949-09-10.
Sitiveni Rabuka is born
Sitiveni Rabuka is born
Rosemary Casals is born
Rosemary Casals is born
Jeremy Irons is born
Jeremy Irons, English actor, known for british actor, was born on 1949-09-19. Jeremy John Irons is an English actor.
George R. R. Martin is born
George R. R. Martin, American writer and television producer, known for american writer and television producer, was born on 1949-09-20.
Gerry Adams is born
Gerry Adams, Irish republican politician, known for irish republican politician, was born on 1949-10-06.
Jackson Browne is born
Jackson Browne, American musician, known for american singer, songwriter and political activist, was born on 1949-10-09.
Dave Cowens is born
Dave Cowens, American athlete, known for american basketball player and coach, was born on 1949-10-25.
Kate Jackson is born
Kate Jackson, American actress, known for american actress, was born on 1949-10-29.
Hassan Rouhani is born
Hassan Rouhani is born
Charles III is born
Charles III is born
Hans Moravec is born
Hans Moravec austrian-canadian roboticist and futurist, known for austrian-canadian roboticist and futurist, was born on 1949-11-30.
Pablo Escobar is born
Pablo Escobar, Colombian colombian drug lord, known for colombian drug lord, was born on 1949-12-01.
Sebastián Piñera is born
Sebastián Piñera is born
Yoshihide Suga is born
Yoshihide Suga is born
Samuel L. Jackson is born
Samuel L. Jackson, American actor, known for american actor, was born on 1949-12-21. Samuel Leroy Jackson is an American actor and film producer.
Dave Kingman is born
Dave Kingman, American athlete, known for american baseball player, was born on 1949-12-21.
Maurice Gibb is born
Maurice Gibb, British musician, known for british musician, was born on 1949-12-22. Maurice Ernest Gibb (22 December 1949 – 12 January 2003) was a British musician and songwriter.
Steve Garvey is born
Steve Garvey, American athlete, known for american baseball player, was born on 1949-12-22.
Barbara Mandrell is born
Barbara Mandrell, American country music singer, known for american country music singer, was born on 1949-12-25. Barbara Ann Mandrell is an American retired country music singer and musician.
John Bolton is born
John Bolton, American attorney and diplomat, known for american attorney and diplomat, was born on 1949-11-20.
Victor Fleming dies
Victor Fleming, American film director, cinematographer, and producer, known for american film director, cinematographer, and producer, died on 1949-01-06.
Margaret Mitchell dies
Margaret Mitchell, American novelist and journalist, known for american novelist and journalist, died on 1949-08-16.
Events
First Israeli election won by David Ben-Gurion's Mapai party
Constituent Assembly elections were held in newly independent Israel on 25 January 1949. Voter turnout was 86.9%.
1st US daytime soap on TV "These Are My Children" (NBC in Chicago)
1st US daytime soap on TV "These Are My Children" (NBC in Chicago)
American diplomat Henry Kissinger (25) weds Ann Fleisher (23) in Washington Heights, Manhattan, NYC
American diplomat Henry Kissinger (25) weds Ann Fleisher (23) in Washington Heights, Manhattan, NYC
"Lovesick Blues" single is released by Hank Williams (Cashbox "Best Hillbilly Record of the Year," Billboard Song of the
"Lovesick Blues" single is released by Hank Williams (Cashbox "Best Hillbilly Record of the Year," Billboard Song of the Year 1949)
Donald Bradman plays his last innings in first-class cricket, scores 30
Donald Bradman plays his last innings in first-class cricket, scores 30
The North Atlantic Treaty is signed in Washington, D.C., establishing the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a m
The North Atlantic Treaty is signed in Washington, D.C., establishing the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a military alliance between Western nations
Arthur Miller wins a Pulitzer Prize for his play "Death of a Salesman"
Arthur Asher Miller (October 17, 1915 – February 10, 2005) was an American actor and writer of plays in the 20th-century American theater.
USSR lifts blockade of West Berlin after US, UK, and allies successfully supply the city during the Berlin Airlift
West Berlin (German: Berlin (West) or West-Berlin, German pronunciation: [ˈvɛstbɛʁˌliːn] ) was a political enclave which comprised the western part of Berlin from 1948 until 1990, during the Cold...
Federal Republic of (West) Germany is created from the American, British, and French occupation zones
The British occupation zone in Germany (German: Britische Besatzungszone) was one of the Allied-occupied areas in Germany after World War II.
American "Gilda" actress Rita Hayworth (31) weds Pakistani race horse owner Prince Aly Khan (37); separate in 1951, divo
American "Gilda" actress Rita Hayworth (31) weds Pakistani race horse owner Prince Aly Khan (37); separate in 1951, divorce finalized in 1953
American singer and actress Doris Day (27) divorces American saxophonist George Weidler (23) after 3 years of marriage
Doris Day was an American actress and singer. With an entertainment career that spanned nearly 50 years, Day was one of the most popular and acclaimed female singers of the 1940s and 1950s, with a...
Actor Burgess Meredith (41) divorces actress Paulette Goddard (39) after 5 years of marriage
Oliver Burgess Meredith was an American actor and filmmaker whose career encompassed radio, theater, film, and television.
American Actress Hattie McDaniel (54) weds interior decorator Larry Williams in Yuma, Arizona; divorce in 1950
American Actress Hattie McDaniel (54) weds interior decorator Larry Williams in Yuma, Arizona; divorce in 1950
"Captain Video & His Video Rangers" debut on DUMONT-TV - Television's first sci-fi series
"Captain Video & His Video Rangers" debut on DUMONT-TV - Television's first sci-fi series
Austrian-American filmmaker Billy Wilder (43) weds American actress and singer Audrey Young (27), until his death in 200
Austrian-American filmmaker Billy Wilder (43) weds American actress and singer Audrey Young (27), until his death in 2002
South Africa's Prohibition of Mixed Marriages Act commences, prohibiting marriage or sexual relationships between White
South Africa's Prohibition of Mixed Marriages Act commences, prohibiting marriage or sexual relationships between White people and people of other races [1]
Basketball Association of America (BAA) and National Basketball League (NBL) merge to form the National Basketball Assoc
Basketball Association of America (BAA) and National Basketball League (NBL) merge to form the National Basketball Association (NBA), with Maurice Podoloff elected as head of the new league
Film and stage actor Jimmy Stewart (41) weds former model Gloria Hatrick McLean (31) at the Brentwood Presbyterian Churc
Film and stage actor Jimmy Stewart (41) weds former model Gloria Hatrick McLean (31) at the Brentwood Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles
Molecular biologist Francis Crick (33) weds artist Odile Speed (29)
Molecular biologist Francis Crick (33) weds artist Odile Speed (29)
Soviet Union secretly performs its first successful nuclear weapons test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in northeast Kaz
Soviet Union secretly performs its first successful nuclear weapons test at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in northeast Kazakhstan
"The Third Man", directed by Carol Reed, starring Joseph Cotten, Alida Valli, and Orson Welles, is released in the Unite
"The Third Man", directed by Carol Reed, starring Joseph Cotten, Alida Valli, and Orson Welles, is released in the United Kingdom (Academy Awards Best Cinematography 1950)
American actress Janet Leigh (22) divorces American sailor Stanley Reames after almost 4 years of marriage
Jeanette Helen Morrison (July 6, 1927 – October 3, 2004), known professionally as Janet Leigh, was an American actress, businesswoman and author.
India's Constituent Assembly adopts Hindi as an official language, celebrated today as Hindi Day
India's Constituent Assembly adopts Hindi as an official language, celebrated today as Hindi Day
"Lone Ranger" premieres on ABC-TV. Hi-yo, Silver! Away!
The Lone Ranger is a fictional masked former Texas Ranger who fought outlaws in the American Old West with his Native American friend Tonto.
Figure skater and actress Sonja Henie (36) weds Winthrop Gardner Jr.
Figure skater and actress Sonja Henie (36) weds Winthrop Gardner Jr.
Mao Zedong and Chinese Communist leaders announce the establishment of the People's Republic of China at the first plena
Mao Zedong and Chinese Communist leaders announce the establishment of the People's Republic of China at the first plenary session of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference at the Huairen Hall in Zhongnanhai, Peking
Retired American MLB outfielder Ty Cobb (61) weds American divorcée Frances Cass (40); divorce in 1956
Retired American MLB outfielder Ty Cobb (61) weds American divorcée Frances Cass (40); divorce in 1956
US President Harry Truman signs the Mutual Defense Assistance Act to strengthen NATO allies especially Greece and Turkey
The Mutual Defense Assistance Act was a United States Act of Congress signed by President Harry S. Truman on October 6, 1949. For U.S. foreign policy, it was the first U.S.
American constitutional lawyer Phyllis Stewart (25) weds attorney John Fred Schlafly, Jr.
American constitutional lawyer Phyllis Stewart (25) weds attorney John Fred Schlafly, Jr.
The Netherlands recognizes its former colony Indonesia as a sovereign state at conclusion of the Round Table Conference
The Netherlands recognizes its former colony Indonesia as a sovereign state at conclusion of the Round Table Conference at the Hague, Netherlands
"Gone With The Wind" actor Clark Gable (48) weds socialite Sylvia Ashley (45)
"Gone With The Wind" actor Clark Gable (48) weds socialite Sylvia Ashley (45)
British-American "North By Northwest" actor Cary Grant (45) weds third wife, American "Every Girl Should Be Married" act
British-American "North By Northwest" actor Cary Grant (45) weds third wife, American "Every Girl Should Be Married" actress Betsy Drake (26); separate in 1958, divorce in 1962
Queen Juliana of the Netherlands formally recognizes the independence of Indonesia after four years of revolution and Un
Queen Juliana of the Netherlands formally recognizes the independence of Indonesia after four years of revolution and United Nations mediation
Luis Muñoz Marín becomes the first democratically elected Governor of Puerto Rico
José Luis Alberto Muñoz Marín (February 18, 1898 – April 30, 1980), most commonly known as Luis Muñoz Marín, was a Puerto Rican journalist, politician, and Puerto Rican autonomist who served as the...
"Colgate Theater" dramatic anthology series premieres on NBC TV
"Colgate Theater" dramatic anthology series premieres on NBC TV
West Indian cricket batsman Everton Weekes scores 101 in 3rd Test against India in Calcutta; his world record fifth cons
West Indian cricket batsman Everton Weekes scores 101 in 3rd Test against India in Calcutta; his world record fifth consecutive Test century
General Spoor orders cease-fire on Sumatra
General Spoor orders cease-fire on Sumatra
1st photo of genes taken at University of Southern California by Pease & Baker
1st photo of genes taken at University of Southern California by Pease & Baker
1st Jewish family show "Goldbergs" premieres on CBS
1st Jewish family show "Goldbergs" premieres on CBS
KDKA TV channel 2 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (CBS) begins broadcasting
KDKA TV channel 2 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (CBS) begins broadcasting
Black and Indian race rebellion in Durban, South Africa; 142 die
Black and Indian race rebellion in Durban, South Africa; 142 die
Mao's Red army conquers Ten-tsin
Mao's Red army conquers Ten-tsin
KNBH (now KNBC) TV channel 4 in Los Angeles, CA (NBC) 1st broadcast
KNBH (now KNBC) TV channel 4 in Los Angeles, CA (NBC) 1st broadcast
Radio series "The Goldbergs" by Gertrude Berg premieres on US TV on CBS
Gertrude Berg was an American actress, screenwriter, and producer. A pioneer of classic radio, she was one of the first women to create, write, produce, and star in a long-running hit when she...
"They Stand Accused" courtroom drama premieres on CBS (later DuMont)
"They Stand Accused" courtroom drama premieres on CBS (later DuMont)
Cuba recognises Israel.
As of January 2026, the State of Israel is recognized as a sovereign state by 166 of the other 192 member states of the United Nations, or approximately 86% of all UN members.
First inaugural parade televised for Harry Truman, watched by 10 million people
The second inauguration of Harry S. Truman as president of the United States was held on Thursday, January 20, 1949, at the East Portico of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C.
Chinatown telephone exchange in San Francisco is closed
Chinatown telephone exchange in San Francisco is closed
1st Emmy Awards: Shirley Dinsdale & Pantomime Quiz (KTLA) win
The 1st Emmy Awards, retroactively known as the 1st Primetime Emmy Awards after the debut of the counterpart Daytime Emmy Awards, were presented at the Hollywood Athletic Club in Los Angeles on...
" (5.08-m) Hale telescope 1st used at Palomar observatory in Palomar Mountain, California [see also June 3, 1948]
" (5.08-m) Hale telescope 1st used at Palomar observatory in Palomar Mountain, California [see also June 3, 1948]
Chinese liner "Taiping" collides with a collier off south China
Chinese liner "Taiping" collides with a collier off south China
NY Giants sign their 1st black players, Monte Irvin & Ford Smith
NY Giants sign their 1st black players, Monte Irvin & Ford Smith
Great Britain, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand and Switzerland recognize Israel
As of January 2026, the State of Israel is recognized as a sovereign state by 166 of the other 192 member states of the United Nations, or approximately 86% of all UN members.
Huaso sets official world equestrian high-jump record, 2.47 m, Chic
Huaso sets official world equestrian high-jump record, 2.47 m, Chic
Hungarian cardinal József Mindszenty sentenced to life in prison
József Mindszenty was a Hungarian cardinal of the Catholic Church who served as Archbishop of Esztergom and leader of the Catholic Church in Hungary from 1945 to 1973.
1st session of Knesset (Jerusalem Israel)
The Knesset is the unicameral legislature of Israel. The Knesset passes all laws, elects the president and prime minister, approves the cabinet, and supervises the work of the government, among other...
Chaim Weitzman elected 1st president of Israel
Chaim Azriel Weizmann ( KYME WYTES-mən; 27 November 1874 – 9 November 1952) was a Russian-born Israeli statesman, biochemist, and Zionist leader who served as president of the Zionist Organization...
First International Pancake Race is held in Liberal, Kansas
First International Pancake Race is held in Liberal, Kansas
US TV soap opera "A Woman to Remember" is 1st broadcast on DuMont Television Network
US TV soap opera "A Woman to Remember" is 1st broadcast on DuMont Television Network
Israel & Egypt sign an armistice agreement
The 1949 Armistice Agreements were signed between Israel and Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria.
WAC Corporal rocket achieves height of 400k (record)
WAC Corporal rocket achieves height of 400k (record)
USAF plane began 1st nonstop around-the-world flight
USAF plane began 1st nonstop around-the-world flight
1st automatic street light (New Milford, Ct)
1st automatic street light (New Milford, Ct)
WAGA TV channel 5 in Atlanta, GA (CBS) begins broadcasting
WAGA TV channel 5 in Atlanta, GA (CBS) begins broadcasting
Brigadier General Edwin K Wright, USA, ends term as deputy director of CIA
Brigadier General Edwin K Wright, USA, ends term as deputy director of CIA
KFMB TV channel 8 in San Diego, CA (CBS) begins broadcasting
San Diego is a city on the Pacific coast of Southern California, adjacent to the Mexico–United States border. It is the eighth-most populous city in the U.S.
WGAL TV channel 8 in Lancaster, PA (NBC) begins broadcasting
WGAL TV channel 8 in Lancaster, PA (NBC) begins broadcasting
1st museum devoted exclusively to atomic energy, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
1st museum devoted exclusively to atomic energy, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
WTVJ TV channel 4 in Miami, FL (NBC/CBS) begins broadcasting
WTVJ TV channel 4 in Miami, FL (NBC/CBS) begins broadcasting
Sidney Kingsley's play "Detective Story" premieres in NYC
Sidney Kingsley's play "Detective Story" premieres in NYC
21st Academy Awards: "Hamlet", Laurence Olivier & Jane Wyman win, Walter & John Huston become 1st father-and-son team to
21st Academy Awards: "Hamlet", Laurence Olivier & Jane Wyman win, Walter & John Huston become 1st father-and-son team to win awards
The Soviet Union begins Operation Pribioi, the mass deportation of 90,000 Estonians, Latvians and Lithuanians to inhospi
The Soviet Union begins Operation Pribioi, the mass deportation of 90,000 Estonians, Latvians and Lithuanians to inhospitable areas in the Soviet Union
English astronomer Fred Hoyle coins the term "Big Bang" in a BBC radio talk while actually arguing for the alternative "
English astronomer Fred Hoyle coins the term "Big Bang" in a BBC radio talk while actually arguing for the alternative "steady-state" theory [1]
Turkey recognizes Israel
As of January 2026, the State of Israel is recognized as a sovereign state by 166 of the other 192 member states of the United Nations, or approximately 86% of all UN members.
Riot breaks out in Austurvöllur square in Reykjavík, when Iceland joins NATO
Riot breaks out in Austurvöllur square in Reykjavík, when Iceland joins NATO
Newfoundland becomes Canada's 10th province
The premier of Newfoundland and Labrador is current title of the first minister for the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, which was at certain points in its history a colony, dominion,...
KQW-AM in San Francisco CA changes call letters to KCBS
KQW-AM in San Francisco CA changes call letters to KCBS
Israel & Jordan sign armistice agreement
The 1949 Armistice Agreements were signed between Israel and Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria.
60 year old St Anthony's Hospital in Effingham, Illinois, catches fire, killing 77 people
60 year old St Anthony's Hospital in Effingham, Illinois, catches fire, killing 77 people
UN International Court of Justice holds Albania responsible for incidents in Corfu Channel and awards Britain damages
UN International Court of Justice holds Albania responsible for incidents in Corfu Channel and awards Britain damages
During a lecture at the Mayo Clinic, Philip S. Hench reveals positive results of clinical trials using cortisone to trea
During a lecture at the Mayo Clinic, Philip S. Hench reveals positive results of clinical trials using cortisone to treat rheumatoid arthritis
International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg's last judgment
International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg's last judgment
Pope Pius XII publishes encyclical Redemptoris nostri
Redemptoris nostri cruciatus (The passion of our Redeemer) is an encyclical of Pope Pius XII dated 15 April 1949 focusing on the situation in Palestine immediately following the cessation of fighting...
Stanley Cup Final, Maple Leaf Gardens, Toronto, ON: 3-peat for Toronto Maple Leafs as they beat Detroit Red Wings, 3-1 f
Stanley Cup Final, Maple Leaf Gardens, Toronto, ON: 3-peat for Toronto Maple Leafs as they beat Detroit Red Wings, 3-1 for a 4 game series sweep
Republic of Ireland withdraws from British Commonwealth
The Commonwealth of Nations, often referred to as the British Commonwealth or simply the Commonwealth, is an international association of 56 member states, the vast majority of which are former...
Chinese Red army conquers Nanjing
The Chinese Red Army, formally the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army (中國工農紅軍) or just the Red Army (紅軍), was the military wing of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from 1928 to 1937.
3rd Tony Awards: "Death of a Salesman" & "Kiss Me Kate" win
The 3rd Annual Tony Awards were held on April 24, 1949, at the Waldorf-Astoria Grand Ballroom in New York City, and broadcast on radio station WOR and the Mutual Network.
Transjordan is officially renamed the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
The Emirate of Transjordan, officially the Amirate of Trans-Jordan, was a British protectorate under the League of Nations mandate established on 11 April 1921, which remained as such until achieving...
Former Philippine First Lady Aurora Quezon, 61, assassinated while en route to dedicate a hospital in memory of her late
Former Philippine First Lady Aurora Quezon, 61, assassinated while en route to dedicate a hospital in memory of her late husband; her daughter and 10 others also killed
Athletics' Elmer Valo is the first AL baseball player to hit 2 bases-loaded triples in a game
The 1949 major league baseball season began on April 18, 1949. The regular season ended on October 2, with the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Yankees as the regular season champions of the National...
1st firing of a US Viking rocket; reached 80 km
1st firing of a US Viking rocket; reached 80 km
Plane carrying the entire Torino Serie A soccer squad crashes on the outskirts of Turin, Italy; 31 killed; Torino awarde
Plane carrying the entire Torino Serie A soccer squad crashes on the outskirts of Turin, Italy; 31 killed; Torino awarded League title at the request of their rivals
Detroit Tigers second baseman Charlie Gehringer is elected in the Baseball Hall of Fame
The Detroit Tigers are an American professional baseball team based in Detroit. The Tigers compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member club of the American League (AL) Central Division.
Roem–Van Roijen Agreement negotiated in Jakarta between Indonesian Republican Mohammad Roem and Jan Herman van Roijen fo
Roem–Van Roijen Agreement negotiated in Jakarta between Indonesian Republican Mohammad Roem and Jan Herman van Roijen for Netherlands - paves the way for independence
West German constitution approved
The original Constitution of East Germany (the German Democratic Republic; German: Verfassung der Deutschen Demokratischen Republik) was promulgated on 7 October 1949.
Britain's 1st launderette opens in Queensway, London
Britain's 1st launderette opens in Queensway, London
By a vote of 37-12, Israel becomes 59th member of UN
By a vote of 37-12, Israel becomes 59th member of UN
First British-produced jet bomber, the Canberra, makes its first test flight
First British-produced jet bomber, the Canberra, makes its first test flight
British government recognises Republic of Ireland (previously Irish Free State)
The Irish Free State (6 December 1922 – 29 December 1937), also known by its Irish name Saorstát Éireann, was a state established in December 1922 under the Anglo-Irish Treaty of December 1921.
Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America incorporates
Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America incorporates
Brooklyn Dodgers Don Newcombe, in 1st MLB start, shuts out Cincinnati on 5 hits to win 3-0
Brooklyn Dodgers Don Newcombe, in 1st MLB start, shuts out Cincinnati on 5 hits to win 3-0
Chinese Red army occupies Shanghai
The Chinese Red Army, formally the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army (中國工農紅軍) or just the Red Army (紅軍), was the military wing of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from 1928 to 1937.
Martin Canine, cartoon character, spoofs Martin Kane
Martin Canine, cartoon character, spoofs Martin Kane
MLB Cleveland Indians start 12-17, owner Bill Veeck arranges a "Second Opening Day"
MLB Cleveland Indians start 12-17, owner Bill Veeck arranges a "Second Opening Day"
Candid Camera, TV comedy show, moves to NBC
Candid Camera is an American hidden camera and practical joke reality television series. The show was created, developed, and presented by Allen Funt.
East German constitution approved
The original Constitution of East Germany (the German Democratic Republic; German: Verfassung der Deutschen Demokratischen Republik) was promulgated on 7 October 1949.
Charley Lupica begins his stay on a 4-foot square platform atop a 60-foot pole, vowing to remain until the Indians clinc
Charley Lupica begins his stay on a 4-foot square platform atop a 60-foot pole, vowing to remain until the Indians clinch the pennant (they don't, and he stays for 117 days)
British government grants Cyrenaica (East-Libya) independence
Cyrenaica ( SY-rə-NAY-ik-ə-,-SIRR-ə) or Kyrenaika, is the eastern region of Libya.
1st African American to graduate from US Naval Academy (Wesley Anthony Brown)
1st African American to graduate from US Naval Academy (Wesley Anthony Brown)
"It Pays To Be Ignorant" game show debut on CBS-TV
It Pays to Be Ignorant is a 1942–51 radio comedy show which maintained its popularity during a nine-year run on three networks for such sponsors as Philip Morris, Chrysler, and DeSoto.
Georgia Neese Clark of Kansas becomes 1st woman treasurer of US
Georgia Neese Clark of Kansas becomes 1st woman treasurer of US
Istvan Dobi becomes Hungarian premier
Istvan Dobi becomes Hungarian premier
Emile Zatopek runs world record 10,000m (29:28.2)
Emile Zatopek runs world record 10,000m (29:28.2)
Phils Eddie Waitkus, shot by Ruth Steinhagen, 19, at Eddgewater Hotel
Phils Eddie Waitkus, shot by Ruth Steinhagen, 19, at Eddgewater Hotel
Gas turbine-electric locomotive demonstrated at Erie, Pennsylvania
Gas turbine-electric locomotive demonstrated at Erie, Pennsylvania
Central Intelligence Agency Act passes
The Central Intelligence Agency Act, Pub. L. 81–110, is a United States federal law enacted in 1949. The Act, also called the "CIA Act of 1949" or "Public Law 110" permitted the Central Intelligence...
Dutch Constellation aircraft plunges into the sea near Bari, 33 die
Dutch Constellation aircraft plunges into the sea near Bari, 33 die
"Hopalong Cassidy" becomes 1st network western (NBC)
"Hopalong Cassidy" becomes 1st network western (NBC)
"Long-Haired Hare", animated short starring Bugs Bunny, is released in theaters
"Long-Haired Hare", animated short starring Bugs Bunny, is released in theaters
1st Belgian parliamentary election where women can vote (CVP gains)
1st Belgian parliamentary election where women can vote (CVP gains)
US troops withdraw from Korea after WW II
US troops withdraw from Korea after WW II
Dutch troops evacuate Jakarta
Dutch troops evacuate Jakarta
"Red Barber's Clubhouse" sports show premieres on CBS (later NBC) TV
"Red Barber's Clubhouse" sports show premieres on CBS (later NBC) TV
Cincinnati Reds catcher Walker Cooper goes 6 for 7, (3 HRs, 3 singles, 5 runs scored, 10 RBI) in 23-4 win v Chicago Cubs
Cincinnati Reds catcher Walker Cooper goes 6 for 7, (3 HRs, 3 singles, 5 runs scored, 10 RBI) in 23-4 win v Chicago Cubs
"Dragnet" premieres on NBC radio; also a TV series in 1951 & 1967
"Dragnet" premieres on NBC radio; also a TV series in 1951 & 1967
Monte Irvin & Hank Thompson become first black players for New York Giants in a 4-3 loss to Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets F
Monte Irvin & Hank Thompson become first black players for New York Giants in a 4-3 loss to Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field
First practical rectangular TV tube announced in Toledo, Ohio
First practical rectangular TV tube announced in Toledo, Ohio
Baseball owners agree to erect warning paths before each fence
Baseball owners agree to erect warning paths before each fence
WBTV TV channel 3 in Charlotte, North Carolina (CBS) begins broadcasting
WBTV TV channel 3 in Charlotte, North Carolina (CBS) begins broadcasting
Laos becomes associated state within French Union
An associated state is the minor partner or dependent territory in a formal, free relationship between a political entity (some of them dependent states, some of them fully sovereign) and a major...
Israel's 19 month war of independence ends
The 1948 Arab–Israeli War (15 May 1948 – 10 March 1949), also known as the First Arab–Israeli War, followed the civil war in Mandatory Palestine (29 November 1947 – 14 May 1948) as the second and...
US Senate ratifies North Atlantic Treaty by a vote of 82-13 (NATO)
France is a founding member of NATO and played an active role in its establishment.
Test cricket debut of England's Brian Close at age 18 years and 149 days
Dennis Brian Close, (24 February 1931 – 13 September 2015) was an English first-class cricketer. He was picked to play against New Zealand in July 1949, when he was 18 years old.
WCPO TV channel 9 in Cincinnati, OH (CBS) begins broadcasting
WCPO TV channel 9 in Cincinnati, OH (CBS) begins broadcasting
De Havilland Comet, the world’s first commercial jet airliner, makes its maiden flight
The de Havilland DH.106 Comet is a four-engine narrow body aircraft developed and manufactured by de Havilland in the United Kingdom.
British warship HMS Amethyst escapes down the Yangtze River after being refused safe passage by Chinese Communists follo
British warship HMS Amethyst escapes down the Yangtze River after being refused safe passage by Chinese Communists following a 3-month standoff
A 6.4 earthquake strikes Tungurahua Province, Ecuador, killing 5,000 people
A 6.4 earthquake strikes Tungurahua Province, Ecuador, killing 5,000 people
Future Hall of Famer Luke Appling appears in an MLB record 2,154th game at shortstop for the Chicago White Sox en route
Future Hall of Famer Luke Appling appears in an MLB record 2,154th game at shortstop for the Chicago White Sox en route to 2,218
Bhutan, Land of the Dragon, becomes an independent monarchy
Bhutan, officially the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a landlocked country in South Asia, located in the Eastern Himalayas, bordering China to the north and northwest and India to the south and southeast.
16th NFL Chicago All-Star Game: Philadelphia 38, All-Stars 0 (93,780 attendees)
16th NFL Chicago All-Star Game: Philadelphia 38, All-Stars 0 (93,780 attendees)
Military coup in Syria under colonel Sami Hinnawi
The March 1949 Syrian coup d'état was a bloodless coup d'état that took place on 30 March.
WOTV TV channel 8 in Grand Rapids, MI (NBC) begins broadcasting
WOTV TV channel 8 in Grand Rapids, MI (NBC) begins broadcasting
Hungary adopts a constitution
The Hungarian Constitution of 1949 was a communist state constitution adopted on 20 August 1949[a].
78,382 fans watch the White Sox play the Indians in Cleveland
78,382 fans watch the White Sox play the Indians in Cleveland
Canada's largest earthquake since 1700 strikes the Queen Charlotte Fault below Haida Gwaii at 8.1 magnitude, knocking co
Canada's largest earthquake since 1700 strikes the Queen Charlotte Fault below Haida Gwaii at 8.1 magnitude, knocking cows off their feet [1]
North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) goes into effect
The history of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) begins in the immediate aftermath of World War II.
Roly Jenkins (Worcs vs. Surrey) takes his second hat-trick of the match
Roly Jenkins (Worcs vs. Surrey) takes his second hat-trick of the match
1st network detective series "Martin Kane, Private Eye" debuts on NBC, airing live
1st network detective series "Martin Kane, Private Eye" debuts on NBC, airing live
Fire in Chiang-king, China, kills 7,000 people
Fire in Chiang-king, China, kills 7,000 people
Marie Robie sinks a 393-yard (359.36 m) hole-in-one on the first hole at Furnace Brook
Marie Robie sinks a 393-yard (359.36 m) hole-in-one on the first hole at Furnace Brook
America's first mass killing: Howard Unruh kills 13 neighbors in 12 minutes in Camden, New Jersey [1]
Howard Barton Unruh (January 21, 1921 – October 19, 2009) was an American mass murderer who shot and killed thirteen people during a twelve-minute walk through his neighborhood in Camden, New Jersey,...
Pacific Airlines flight explodes en route to Baie-Comeau, killing 23 people; a passenger's husband, Albert Guay, is late
Pacific Airlines flight explodes en route to Baie-Comeau, killing 23 people; a passenger's husband, Albert Guay, is later sentenced and hanged along with two others for the first bombing of a Canadian plane [1]
Ladies Pro Golf Association of America formed in NYC
Ladies Pro Golf Association of America formed in NYC
KABC TV channel 7 in Los Angeles, CA (ABC) begins broadcasting
Los Angeles (often referred to by its initials, LA) is the most populous city in the U.S. state of California, and the commercial, financial, and cultural center of Southern California.
die as fire engulfs Canadian passenger steamer Noronic in Toronto
SS Noronic was a Canadian passenger ship that was destroyed by fire in Toronto Harbour in September 1949 with the loss of at least 118 lives.
Baseball Major League record of four grand slams hit
The 1949 major league baseball season began on April 18, 1949. The regular season ended on October 2, with the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Yankees as the regular season champions of the National...
"Late Spring", Japanese film directed by Yasujirō Ozu, starring Chishū Ryū, Setsuko Hara and Haruko Sugimura, is release
"Late Spring", Japanese film directed by Yasujirō Ozu, starring Chishū Ryū, Setsuko Hara and Haruko Sugimura, is released in Japan
Dutch Guilder devalues by 30.3%
Dutch Guilder devalues by 30.3%
WFMY TV channel 2 in Greensboro-High Point, NC (CBS) begins broadcasting
WFMY TV channel 2 in Greensboro-High Point, NC (CBS) begins broadcasting
Despite 71 injuries, the Yankees have been in first place all season until the Red Sox move into a tie for first place
The Red Sox–Yankees rivalry is a Major League Baseball (MLB) rivalry between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees.
"Front Page" debuts on CBS-TV
The Front Page is an American newspaper drama television series, broadcast on CBS beginning September 29, 1949, and ending on January 26, 1950.
American chemist Percy L. Julian at the Glidden Company announces an improved method for producing cortisone
American chemist Percy L. Julian at the Glidden Company announces an improved method for producing cortisone
Pirate Ralph Kiner hits his 54th home run and NL record 16th in September
Pirate Ralph Kiner hits his 54th home run and NL record 16th in September
Publication of poetry volume "Annie Allen" by Gwendolyn Brooks, 1950 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry and first African America
Publication of poetry volume "Annie Allen" by Gwendolyn Brooks, 1950 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry and first African American recipient of a Pulitzer [1]
For the first time in 41 years, pennant races in both MLB leagues are decided on the final day of the season: (AL) Yanke
For the first time in 41 years, pennant races in both MLB leagues are decided on the final day of the season: (AL) Yankees upend rival Boston Red Sox 5-3; (NL) Dodgers beat the Phillies 9-7 for a 97-57 record; Cardinals 96-58
WERD, the first Black-owned radio station, opens in Atlanta
WERD, the first Black-owned radio station, opens in Atlanta
American Contract Bridge League votes 58½% to keep blacks out
American Contract Bridge League votes 58½% to keep blacks out
American citizen and radio broadcaster in Japan during the war, Iva Toguri D'Aquino, known as Tokyo Rose, is sentenced t
American citizen and radio broadcaster in Japan during the war, Iva Toguri D'Aquino, known as Tokyo Rose, is sentenced to 10 years and a $10,000 fine for treason; she is later pardoned
German Democratic Republic is formed from the Russian occupation zone (National Day) Wilhelm Pieck becomes the first pre
German Democratic Republic is formed from the Russian occupation zone (National Day) Wilhelm Pieck becomes the first president, Otto Grotewohl the first premier
English ballerina Margot Fonteyn debuts in the US with her performance in Tchaikovsky's "The Sleeping Beauty" at the Met
English ballerina Margot Fonteyn debuts in the US with her performance in Tchaikovsky's "The Sleeping Beauty" at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York
Costa Rica abolishes its army (decree 249)
Costa Rica abolishes its army (decree 249)
14 US Communist Party leaders convicted of sedition
The Smith Act trials of Communist Party leaders were a series of trials held from 1949 to 1958 in which leaders of the Communist Party of the United States (CPUSA) were accused of violating the Smith...
Administration of the territory of Manipur is taken over by the Indian government
Manipur is a state in northeastern India with Imphal as its capital. It borders the Indian states of Assam to the west, Mizoram to the south, and Nagaland to the north and shares the international...
WDAF-TV Channel 4 in Kansas City, MO (NBC) begins broadcasting
WDAF-TV Channel 4 in Kansas City, MO (NBC) begins broadcasting
A's trade second baseman Nellie Fox to the White Sox for Joe Tipton
Jacob Nelson Fox (December 25, 1927 – December 1, 1975) was an American professional baseball player.
Eugenie Anderson becomes the first woman US ambassador (to Denmark)
Eugenie Anderson (May 26, 1909 – March 31, 1997), also known as Helen Eugenie Moore Anderson, was a United States diplomat.
killed in train derailment near Nowy Dwor Poland
killed in train derailment near Nowy Dwor Poland
Construction of the United Nations headquarters begins in New York
Construction of the United Nations headquarters begins in New York
Georges Bidault becomes the President of the Council of Ministers (premier)
Georges Bidault becomes the President of the Council of Ministers (premier)
White Sox trade catcher Joe Tipton to the Philadelphia Athletics for second baseman Nellie Fox
White Sox trade catcher Joe Tipton to the Philadelphia Athletics for second baseman Nellie Fox
Dutch Nazi Henri "Hakkie" Holdert, director of Amsterdam paper De Telegraaf (The Telegraph) and member of the SS, is sen
Dutch Nazi Henri "Hakkie" Holdert, director of Amsterdam paper De Telegraaf (The Telegraph) and member of the SS, is sentenced to 12 years imprisonment
Netherlands ends rationing programs started during WWII for distribution of textiles, meat, and cheese
The term "home front" covers the activities of the civilians in a nation at war. World War II was a total war; homeland military production became vital to both the Allied and Axis powers.
"One Man's Family" premieres on TV in the US, after running as a radio show since 1932
"One Man's Family" premieres on TV in the US, after running as a radio show since 1932
Greek civil war ends after 3 years with defeat of communist factions
The Greek Civil War took place from 1946 to 1949. The conflict, which erupted shortly after the end of World War II, consisted of a Communist-led uprising against the established government of the...
King Faruk disbands Egyptian parliament
King Faruk disbands Egyptian parliament
Costa Rica adopts Constitution
Costa Rica, officially the Republic of Costa Rica, is a country in Central America.
WTTV TV channel 4 in Bloomington-Indianapol, IN (IND) 1st broadcast
WTTV TV channel 4 in Bloomington-Indianapol, IN (IND) 1st broadcast
The U.S. Air Force grounds B-29s after two crashes and 23 deaths in three days
The U.S. Air Force grounds B-29s after two crashes and 23 deaths in three days
Jewish population of Israel reaches 1,000,000
Jewish population of Israel reaches 1,000,000
British steel & iron industry nationalised
The Iron and Steel Corporation of Great Britain was a nationalised industry, set up in 1949 by Clement Attlee's Labour government. The Iron and Steel Act 1949 took effect on 15 February 1951, the...
Gene Autry's single "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer" appears on music charts after songwriter Johnny Marks adapts a poe
Gene Autry's single "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer" appears on music charts after songwriter Johnny Marks adapts a poem written by his brother-in-law Robert L. May for Montgomery Ward department stores [1]
The Constituent Assembly of India formally adopts a new constitution
A constituent assembly (also known as a constitutional convention, constitutional congress, or constitutional assembly) is a body assembled for the purpose of drafting or revising a constitution.
Uranium mine explosions in Johanngeorgenstadt, East Germany, kill 3,700
Uranium mine explosions in Johanngeorgenstadt, East Germany, kill 3,700
Chinese Communists capture Chongqing
The Chinese Communist Revolution was a social and political revolution in mainland China that began in 1927 and culminated with the proclamation of the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 1949.
MLB announces attendance for the season is 20.2 million, down from 20.9 million in 1948; the New York Yankees and the Cl
MLB announces attendance for the season is 20.2 million, down from 20.9 million in 1948; the New York Yankees and the Cleveland Indians each finish with over 2.2 million, but the St. Louis Browns fall to 270,000
KRLD (now KDFW) TV channel 4 in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (CBS) begins broadcasting
KRLD (now KDFW) TV channel 4 in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (CBS) begins broadcasting
Bobby Gage ties the NFL record for the longest touchdown run with a 97-yard score for the Pittsburgh Steelers
Bobby Gage ties the NFL record for the longest touchdown run with a 97-yard score for the Pittsburgh Steelers
15th Heisman Trophy Award: Leon Hart (end), Notre Dame
15th Heisman Trophy Award: Leon Hart (end), Notre Dame
House of Representatives of The Netherlands accepts Indonesian sovereignty
The Indonesian National Revolution (Indonesian: Revolusi Nasional Indonesia), also known as the Indonesian War of Independence, was an armed conflict and diplomatic struggle between the Republic of...
Chicago Bear Johnny Lujack passes for 6 touchdowns vs Chicago Cards (52-29)
Chicago Bear Johnny Lujack passes for 6 touchdowns vs Chicago Cards (52-29)
AL votes 7-1 rejecting legalizing the spitball
AL votes 7-1 rejecting legalizing the spitball
AL votes down proposal to revive spitball
AL votes down proposal to revive spitball
Burma recognizes People's Republic of China
The time period in China from the founding of the People's Republic in 1949 until Mao's death in 1976 is commonly known as Maoist China and Red China.
Luxury passenger ship Aquitania demolished in Gareloch, Scotland
Luxury passenger ship Aquitania demolished in Gareloch, Scotland
20th Century Fox announces it will produce TV programs
20th Television, Inc. (formerly known as TCF Television Productions, Inc., 20th Century-Fox Television and 20th Century Fox Television) is the television studio owned by Disney Television Studios, a...
1st UHF television station operating regular basis Bridgeport, Connecticut
1st UHF television station operating regular basis Bridgeport, Connecticut
India recognizes People's Republic of China
The People's Republic of China is the second most-populous country in the world with a population exceeding 1.4 billion, only surpassed by India.
18 countries recognize Republic Indonesia
18 countries recognize Republic Indonesia
Famous Births
birth
George Foreman is born
George Foreman, American athlete, known for american boxer, was born on 1949-01-10.
birth
Haruki Murakami is born
Haruki Murakami, Japanese writer, known for japanese writer, was born on 1949-01-12. Haruki Murakami (村上 春樹, Murakami Haruki; born January 12, 1949) is a Japanese writer.
birth
John Belushi is born
John Belushi, American comedian, actor and musician, known for american comedian, actor and musician, was born on 1949-01-24.
birth
Peter Agre is born
Peter Agre, American physician and academic, known for american physician and academic, was born on 1949-01-30.
birth
Ray Kurzweil is born
Ray Kurzweil, American computer scientist, author and futurist, known for american computer scientist, author and futurist, was born on 1949-02-12.
birth
Teller is born
Teller is born
birth
Niki Lauda is born
Niki Lauda, Austrian athlete, known for austrian racing driver, was born on 1949-02-22.
birth
Bernadette Peters is born
Bernadette Peters, American actress and singer, known for american actress and singer, was born on 1949-02-28. Bernadette Peters is an American actress and singer.
birth
James Taylor is born
James Taylor, American musician, known for american musician, was born on 1949-03-12. James Vernon Taylor is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist.
birth
Billy Crystal is born
Billy Crystal, American comedian and actor, known for american comedian and actor, was born on 1949-03-14. William Edward Crystal is an American comedian, actor, and filmmaker.
birth
Bobby Orr is born
Bobby Orr, Canadian athlete, known for canadian ice hockey player, was born on 1949-03-20.
birth
Andrew Lloyd Webber is born
Andrew Lloyd Webber, English musician, known for english theatre composer, was born on 1949-03-22. Andrew Lloyd Webber, Baron Lloyd-Webber is an English composer and impresario of musical theatre.
birth
Steven Tyler is born
Steven Tyler, American musician, known for american singer and songwriter, was born on 1949-03-26. Steven Victor Tallarico, known professionally as Steven Tyler, is an American singer and songwriter.
birth
Dianne Wiest is born
Dianne Wiest, American actress, known for american actress, was born on 1949-03-28. Dianne Evelyn Wiest is an American actress.
birth
Al Gore is born
Al Gore is born
birth
Robert Allen Litchfield is born
Robert Allen Litchfield is born
birth
Christopher Hitchens is born
Christopher Hitchens, American american author and journalist, known for british and american author and journalist, was born on 1949-04-13.
birth
Stevie Nicks is born
Stevie Nicks, American musician, known for american singer-songwriter, was born on 1949-05-26.
birth
Clarence Thomas is born
Clarence Thomas is born
birth
Kathy Bates is born
Kathy Bates, American actress, known for american actress, was born on 1949-06-28. Kathleen Doyle Bates is an American actress.
birth
Shelley Duvall is born
Shelley Duvall, American actress and producer, known for american actress and producer, was born on 1949-07-07.
birth
Cat Stevens is born
Cat Stevens, British musician, known for british musician, was born on 1949-07-21.
birth
Peggy Fleming is born
Peggy Fleming is born
birth
Vida Blue is born
Vida Blue athlete, known for american baseball player, was born on 1949-07-28. Vida Rochelle Blue Jr. (July 28, 1949 – May 6, 2023) was an American professional baseball player.
birth
Greg Chappell is born
Greg Chappell athlete, known for australian cricketer, was born on 1949-08-07. Gregory Stephen Chappell is a former cricketer who represented Australia at international level in both Tests and…
birth
Robert Plant is born
Robert Plant, English musician, known for english singer, was born on 1949-08-20. Robert Anthony Plant is an English singer and songwriter.
birth
Nate Archibald is born
Nate Archibald, American athlete, known for american basketball player, was born on 1949-09-02. Nathaniel "Tiny" Archibald is an American former professional basketball player.
birth
Charles Simonyi is born
Charles Simonyi, American hungarian-american billionaire software architect, known for hungarian-american billionaire software architect, was born on 1949-09-10.
birth
Sitiveni Rabuka is born
Sitiveni Rabuka is born
birth
Rosemary Casals is born
Rosemary Casals is born
birth
Jeremy Irons is born
Jeremy Irons, English actor, known for british actor, was born on 1949-09-19. Jeremy John Irons is an English actor.
birth
George R. R. Martin is born
George R. R. Martin, American writer and television producer, known for american writer and television producer, was born on 1949-09-20.
birth
Gerry Adams is born
Gerry Adams, Irish republican politician, known for irish republican politician, was born on 1949-10-06.
birth
Jackson Browne is born
Jackson Browne, American musician, known for american singer, songwriter and political activist, was born on 1949-10-09.
birth
Dave Cowens is born
Dave Cowens, American athlete, known for american basketball player and coach, was born on 1949-10-25.
birth
Kate Jackson is born
Kate Jackson, American actress, known for american actress, was born on 1949-10-29.
birth
Hassan Rouhani is born
Hassan Rouhani is born
birth
Charles III is born
Charles III is born
birth
Hans Moravec is born
Hans Moravec austrian-canadian roboticist and futurist, known for austrian-canadian roboticist and futurist, was born on 1949-11-30.
birth
Pablo Escobar is born
Pablo Escobar, Colombian colombian drug lord, known for colombian drug lord, was born on 1949-12-01.
birth
Sebastián Piñera is born
Sebastián Piñera is born
birth
Yoshihide Suga is born
Yoshihide Suga is born
birth
Samuel L. Jackson is born
Samuel L. Jackson, American actor, known for american actor, was born on 1949-12-21. Samuel Leroy Jackson is an American actor and film producer.
birth
Dave Kingman is born
Dave Kingman, American athlete, known for american baseball player, was born on 1949-12-21.
birth
Maurice Gibb is born
Maurice Gibb, British musician, known for british musician, was born on 1949-12-22. Maurice Ernest Gibb (22 December 1949 – 12 January 2003) was a British musician and songwriter.
birth
Steve Garvey is born
Steve Garvey, American athlete, known for american baseball player, was born on 1949-12-22.
birth
Barbara Mandrell is born
Barbara Mandrell, American country music singer, known for american country music singer, was born on 1949-12-25. Barbara Ann Mandrell is an American retired country music singer and musician.
birth
John Bolton is born
John Bolton, American attorney and diplomat, known for american attorney and diplomat, was born on 1949-11-20.
Notable Deaths
death
Victor Fleming dies
Victor Fleming, American film director, cinematographer, and producer, known for american film director, cinematographer, and producer, died on 1949-01-06.
death
Margaret Mitchell dies
Margaret Mitchell, American novelist and journalist, known for american novelist and journalist, died on 1949-08-16.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened in 1949?
- In 1949, there were 209 significant historical events. Notable events include US President Harry Truman labels his administration the "Fair Deal", First Israeli election won by David Ben-Gurion's Mapai party, 1st US daytime soap on TV "These Are My Children" (NBC in Chicago).
- Who was born in 1949?
- 48 notable figures were born in 1949, including George Foreman is born, Haruki Murakami is born, John Belushi is born.
- Who died in 1949?
- 2 notable figures passed away in 1949, including Victor Fleming dies, Margaret Mitchell dies.