Important Events Of The 1960's

Apollo 11

On July 16, 1969 Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Micheal Collins were launched into space with the task of landing on the moon at their hands. They acheived that goal on July 24, 1969 as they landed on the moon. This event changed American history forever. Since then many more missions into space have been launched, and the United States has learned a lot from these missions. Apollo 11 paved the way for the current United States space program, and many others around the world.

The Berlin Wall Is Constructed

In 1961, Germany is divided into two separate and highly unequal countries. Under the direction of the Soviet Union, East Berlin is separated from West Berlin by a concrete wall, imprisoning its citizens. This symbol of oppression lasts for thirty years. Hundreds of East Germans escaped, but dozens are killed by East German guards while trying to make a desperate run. Such was the price people were willing to pay for freedom. That is why our parents never take it for granted.

Marilyn Monroe Dies

In 1962, Marilyn Monroe dies suddenly under a cloud of suspicion, although her death is officially ruled a suicide. Marilyn Monroe was one of the few, and certainly the biggest of the Hollywood "bombshells" of the time. Her connection to the Kennedys added to her mystique and popularity, both before and since her death. The death of Marilyn Monroe shocked the United States. Even today some people doubt that her death was a suicide.

Johnny Carson Hosts The Tonight Show

Also in 1962, Johnny Carson begins a 30-year reign as host of the "Tonight Show." The future of late night television seemed in doubt when network executives gave a young comedian named Johnny Carson a shot at hosting the "Tonight Show." Five years later, nearly everyone was talking about whatever happened the night before on "the Carson show." Johnny remained the undisputed leader of late night television until he retired. The "Tonigh Show" is still a popular television show, and is now hosted by comedian Jay Leno.

Cigarettes Are Declared Dangerous

In 1964 the U.S. surgeon general declares that cigarette smoking, a habit "enjoyed" by 60% of the adult population in the sixties, is a major health hazard. In the back of their minds, our parents had known this all along. But commercials for tobacco had claimed it was refreshing and even healthy. It took another thirty years for the government and the people to get serious about breaking this devastatingly destructive habit. Some of the people that started smoking back in the sixties still smoke to this day, even after hearing multiple warnings by the surgeon general.