This Week In History

October 19 - In 1987, the stock market crashed as the Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged 508 points, or 22.6 percent in value, its biggest-ever percentage drop.

October 20 - In 1973, the Sydney Opera House was opened by Queen Elizabeth II after 14 years of construction.

October 21 - In 1959, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City opened to the public.

October 22 - In 1962, President John F. Kennedy announced an air and naval blockade of Cuba, following the discovery of Soviet missile bases on the island.

October 23 - In 1983, a suicide truck-bombing at Beirut International Airport in Lebanon killed 241 U.S. Marines and sailors. A near-simultaneous attack on French forces killed 58 paratroopers.

October 24 - In 1945, the United Nations officially came into existence as its charter took effect. The charter signed by the 51 original member states declared a purpose of reaffirming fundamental human rights, maintaining international peace and security, and promoting the economic and social advancement of all peoples.