On This Day in History

Soviet space dogs: Dezik and Tsygan were launched into a sub-orbital spaceflight from Kapustin Yar and became the first dogs to fly in space and the first to safely return.

A limited state of martial law was declared in Russell County, Alabama, due to organized crime.

The United Kingdom granted self-government to Sarawak (first flag pictured), the day would be celebrated as Sarawak Day.

Stanley Forman (pictured) took the Pulitzer Prize–winning photo Fire Escape Collapse, which spurred action to improve the safety of fire escapes across the United States.

Japan completed its last reparation to the Philippines for war crimes committed during imperial Japan's conquest of the country in the Second World War.

American serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer was arrested in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, after police discovered human remains in his apartment.

Written and illustrated by Eiichiro Oda, One Piece, the best-selling manga series in history, debuted in Weekly Shōnen Jump.

The Israel Defense Forces bombed the home of Salah Shehade, the leader of the military arm of Hamas, killing him, his family and neighboring civilians.