June 16, 1858:
In Illinois, Abraham Lincoln launches his U.S. Senate bid with a warning about America’s split-over slavery. Arguing over the slavery issue, Lincoln declared, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” 3 years later, the civil war breaks out between North and South after Lincoln is sworn in as President.
1963: The world’s first female space traveler, Valentina Tereshkova, was launched into orbit by the Soviet Union aboard Vostok 6 at the age of 26. Tereshkova spent 71 hours in flight, circling the Earth 48 times before returning safely.
1976:
In South Africa, riots erupted in the Black South African township of Soweto. More than 500 youths were killed as the violence spreads across the country. The bloody uprising galvanises the anti-apartheid movement in the country.
1961:
Ballet dancer Rudolf Nureyev defects from the Soviet Union to the West, while his dance troupe is in Paris.
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