Historical Events
- CNN Headline News cable TV channel debuts in US
- Lt Jerry Rawlings becomes head of Ghana, suspends constitution
- Netherlands unemployment stands at record 475,000
Famous Birthdays
- Jason Campbell, American football quarterback (Auburn University: Music City Bowl MVP 2003, Sugar Bowl MVP 2005; Washington Redskins, Oakland Raiders), born in Laurel, Mississippi
- Matthew Pavlich, Australian Football HOF utility (6 × All-Australian; 6 × Doig Medallist, 353 games, 700 goals Fremantle FC) and broadcaster (Fox Sports), born in Adelaide, Australia
Famous Weddings
Sonny Bono
American entertainer Sonny Bono (46) weds (his third time) American actress-model Susie Coelho (28); divorce in 1984
Jerry Garcia
Grateful Dead guitarist Jerry Garcia (38) weds Carolyn "Mountain Girl" Adams (35); divorce in 1994
Famous Deaths
- Frantisek Chaun, Czech pianist, composer, painter, and actor, dies at 60
Died in 1981 1981 Highlights
About December 31, 1981
Day of the Week: Thursday
How Long Ago? 42 years, 3 months and 28 days
Leap Year: No
Generation: Millennial
Chinese Zodiac: Rooster
Star Sign: Capricorn
Music Charts
#1 Song: Physical - Olivia Newton-John
#1 Song: Don't You Want Me - Human League
