What Happened on January 31, 1961

Historical Events

Ben-Gurion Resigns

David Ben-Gurion resigns as Prime Minister of Israel

  • Ham the chimpanzee is 1st primate in space (158 miles) aboard Mercury/Redstone 2
  • Houston voters approve bond to finance luxury domed stadium
  • Kanhai completes twin tons (117 & 115) v Aust at Adelaide
  • NATO Secretary-General Paul-Henri Spaak says he'll resign
  • USAF launches Samos spy satellite to replace U-2 flights
  • West Indian cricket batsman Rohan Kanhai scores back-to-back centuries in the drawn 4th Test against Australia in Adelaide; follows 1st innings 117 with 115 in 2nd knock

Famous Birthdays

  • Fatou Bensouda, Gambian lawyer and Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, born in Banjul, Gambia
  • Lloyd Cole, English rocker (Lloyd Cole and the Commotions), born in Buxton, Derbyshire

About January 31, 1961

Day of the Week: Tuesday
How Long Ago? 63 years, 2 months and 27 days
Leap Year: No

Generation: Baby Boomer
Chinese Zodiac: Rat
Star Sign: Aquarius

Music Charts

  • US #1 Song: Will You Love Me Tomorrow - The Shirelles
  • UK #1 Song: Are You Lonesome Tonight - Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires