What Happened on November 20, 1979

Historical Events

  • Islamic extremists led by Juhayman al-Otaybi occupy the Grand Mosque of Mecca, declare the arrival of the Mahdi (the "redeemer of Islam") in the form of Mohammed Abdullah al-Qahtani and call for the overthrow of the House of Saud. Siege lasts two weeks with 100s killed and sets Saudi Arabia on an ultra-conservative path. [1]
  • US's 1st artificial blood transfusion occurs at University of Minnesota Hospital

Famous Birthdays

  • Ericson Alexander Molano, Colombian gospel singer, born in Pereira, Colombia
  • Maree Bowden, New Zealand netball player (15 caps, Silver Ferns), born in Clyde, New Zealand
Born in 1979
1979 Highlights

About November 20, 1979

Day of the Week: Tuesday
How Long Ago? 44 years, 4 months and 28 days
Leap Year: No

Generation: Generation X
Chinese Zodiac: Goat/Sheep
Star Sign: Scorpio

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