What Happened on June 16, 1961

Historical Events

  • Dave Garroway is fired as host of NBC's "Today Show"
  • Reconnaissance satellite Discoverer 25 launched from the US
  • Soviet ballet dancer Rudolf Nureyev defects to West at Le Bourget Airport in Paris, France

Famous Birthdays

  • Robbie Kerr, Australian cricketer (Queensland opener 2 Tests for Australia 1985)

Famous Deaths

  • Marcel Junod, Swiss physician (b. 1904)
Died in 1961 1961 Highlights

About June 16, 1961

Day of the Week: Friday
How Long Ago? 62 years, 10 months and 9 days
Leap Year: No

Generation: Baby Boomer
Chinese Zodiac: Ox
Star Sign: Gemini

Music Charts

  • US #1 Song: Moody River - Pat Boone
  • UK #1 Song: Surrender - Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires