What Happened on October 29, 1998

Historical Events

  • Apartheid: In South Africa, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission presents its report, which condemns both sides for committing atrocities.
  • ATSC HDTV broadcasting in the United States is inaugurated with the launch of STS-95 space shuttle mission
  • En route Adana to Ankara, Turkish Airlines flight with crew of 6 and 33 passengers hijacked by Kurdish militant, orders pilot fly to Switzerland. Pilot lands in Ankara tricking hijacker he was landing in Sofia to refuel.
  • Hurricane Mitch, the second deadliest Atlantic hurricane in history, made landfall in Honduras.

Scientific Discovery

Space Shuttle Discovery blasts off on STS-95 with 77-year old John Glenn on board, making him the oldest person to go into space.


1998 History

Famous Birthdays

  • Lance Stoll, Canadian-Belgian F1 racing driver, born in Montreal, Quebec
Born in 1998

Famous Deaths

  • Paul Misraki [Misrachi], French jazz pianist, songwriter, and film score composer (Jean Renoir), dies at 90
1998 Highlights

About October 29, 1998

Day of the Week: Thursday
How Long Ago? 25 years, 4 months and 30 days
Leap Year: No

Generation: Generation Z
Chinese Zodiac: Tiger
Star Sign: Scorpio

Music Charts

  • US #1 Song: The First Night - Monica
  • UK #1 Song: Believe - Cher