60+ Unforgettable Things That Happened in the 1960s (2024)

On January 23, Navy Lt. Donald Walsh and Jacques Piccard descend to the bottom of the Mariana Trench (the lowest place on earth) in the submersible the Trieste.

See the 46 best coastal towns»

Though it's difficult to think of Hollywood without it, the first star appears on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on February 9. The honor goes to Joanne Woodward.

See Paul Newman through the years»

It's the end of the I Love Lucy franchise on March 2, when Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz divorce. Yet, they still spoke post-divorce. Here, Desi congratulates Lucille on her Broadway debut in Wildcat.

See rare photos of Lucille Ball»

After six months of sit-ins, the Woolworth's lunch counter in Greensboro, North Carolina, becomes desegregated on July 25.

Learn the power of sharing family stories»

At the 1960 Summer Olympics, Muhammad Ali (then Cassius Clay) wins the gold medal in light-heavyweight boxing.

The most iconic Olympic moments»

Millions tune in on September 26 for the first-ever televised debate. Though those listening on the radio thought Vice President Richard Nixon and Senator John F. Kennedy's performances were equal, the 70-million television viewers preferred Kennedy.

See rare Kennedy family photos»

Fred, Wilma, Betty and Barney make their debut on The Flintstones, which premieres on September 30.

See a real-life Flintstones house»

Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle of the New York Yankees captivate the country in their pursuit of Babe Ruth's then record-60 home runs in a season. Maris would hit #61 on the last game of the season.

Why a Little League sign went viral»

On March 11, 1961,Barbie's boyfriend Ken makes his debut.

See Barbie through the years»

In April, Bonwit Teller exhibits five paintings made by an artist who helped produce its window displays. His name:Andy Warhol. Here's the artist at his townhouse in 1966, a property he bought in 1960.

See a hairstyle inspired by a Warhol»

On July 1, Diana Spencer is born in Sandringham, United Kingdom. Here's the future princess on her 1st birthday.

See 15 rare photos of Princess Di»

On August 4, President Barack Obama is born in Honolulu, Hawaii. Thirty years later, he'd graduate from Harvard Law School.

See 14 Presidential before-and-afters»

After years of work, Mastering The Art Of French Cooking is published in September. The cookbook isn't just a hit — it'll be a bestseller for 5 years and make a star out of Julia Child. Her TV show, The French Chef, would premiere in 1962.

Learn more lessons from Julia Child»

We're simply charmed by Rob and Laura Petrie (and their fabulous suburban home) whenThe Dick Van Dyke Show makes its debut on CBS, October 3.

A tribute to Mary Tyler Moore»

Bob Dylan's eponymous first album is released on March 19. Fun fact: The album tookonly two afternoons to record.

A lesson on happiness from Bob Dylan»

Millions of fans are shocked to hear the news that Marilyn Monroe was found dead in her home on August 5.

See rare photos of a young Marilyn »