What Happened on October 4, 1970

Historical Events

  • Herbert Schmidtz makes highest parachute jump from a tower by leaping from a 1,984 ft TV mast in Tulsa, Oklahoma
  • Jochen Rindt of Austria posthumously clinches Formula 1 World Drivers Championship at the US Grand Prix at Watkins Glen when contender Jacky Ickx finishes 4th; Rindt killed in a practice accident at the Italian GP at Monza 5/9/70
  • Umps return after 1-day walkout in quest of higher wages
  • WFYI TV channel 20 in Indianapolis, IN (PBS) begins broadcasting

Famous Birthdays

  • Ryan McNeil, American NFL defensive back (Pro Bowl 2001; San Diego Chargers), born in Fort Pierce, Florida

Famous Deaths

  • Curtis Turner, American auto racer (184 NASCAR races over 17 years, 17 wins), dies in aeroplane crash at 46
  • George Frederick McKay, American composer, dies at 71

Janis Joplin (1943-1970)

American rock and blues singer-songwriter ("Piece of My Heart"; "Me and Bobby McGee"; "Mercedes Benz"), dies of a heroin overdose at 27


Died in 1970 1970 Highlights

About October 4, 1970

Day of the Week: Sunday
How Long Ago? 53 years, 6 months and 22 days
Leap Year: No

Generation: Generation X
Chinese Zodiac: Dog
Star Sign: Libra

Music Charts

  • US #1 Song: Cracklin' Rosie - Neil Diamond
  • UK #1 Song: Band Of Gold - Freda Payne