On This Day in History

Influential American musician Bob Dylan released his eponymous debut album, mainly comprising traditional folk, blues and gospel songs.

Between 300,000 and 500,000 Brazilians attended the March of the Family with God for Liberty (pictured), in protest against the government of João Goulart and against communism.

The American cable television network C-SPAN, covering government proceedings and public-affairs programming, was launched.

American televangelist Jim Bakker resigned as the host of The PTL Club in the midst of a sex scandal.

The gamma-ray burst GRB 080319B, the farthest object from Earth that was observable by the naked eye, was observed.

The gamma-ray burst GRB 080319B was observed, setting a record for the farthest event from Earth observable with the naked eye.

First Libyan Civil War: The French Air Force launched Opération Harmattan, beginning foreign military intervention in Libya.

Flydubai Flight 981 crashed during an aborted landing at Rostov-on-Don Airport, Russia, resulting in the deaths of all 62 passengers and crew on board.